The physical science (composite teaching) major qualifies students to teach seventh and eighth grade integrated science and high school chemistry and physics. Because they are qualified to teach both subjects, graduates of this major will be more marketable and sought after for teaching positions.
As they train to become chemistry teachers, students learn how to teach the basic chemical properties of elements and the chemical reactions that take place when different elements are combined, and how to properly write scientific equations.
Students also study physics and gain understanding of both the theory of physics and how to experiment using those theories as a guide. Physics teaching covers thermal physics, intermediate modern physics, wave phenomena, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics.
Education Component:
In order to obtain a secondary teaching license for grades 6-12, students must complete the 35-credit Secondary Teacher Education Program (STEP), which includes one semester of student teaching in a public school. This program is administered by USUs School of Teacher Education and Leadership (TEAL) within the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services. Student must apply to the School of TEAL the semester before taking STEP courses. This is usually the fall of their junior year. Students learn subject content through the Languages, Philosophy, and Speech Communication Department, and spend the last year or two studying education techniques through the STEP program.
Students in the physical science (composite teaching) program do not need to have a minor because the program provides students with knowledge in several subject areas, therefore, expanding their career options.