The intent of this certificate program is to help students obtain initial licensure to teach secondary science/STEM in Massachusetts. This single program offers a pathway to initial licensure in a range of secondary science/STEM areas including Biology (grade 8-12), Chemistry (grade 8-12), Earth Science (grade 8-12), General Science (grade 5 – 8), and Mathematics/Science (grade 5-8).
The program will require standard education coursework required of all initial licensure secondary education candidates related to teaching and assessment, culturally-responsive teaching, teaching students with exceptional learning needs, sheltering content for English language learners, and special education history and law.
Additionally, the program will allow students to acquire skills in specific methods of teaching secondary science, focused on effective course design and delivery of content and design of course activities in a way that is aligned with state standards and best practices for learning. The program will culminate with a teaching practicum and
accompanying practicum seminar to allow students to demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge and be evaluated for licensure according to state assessment of licensure candidates.
Graduates will be prepared for teaching careers in their chosen licensure area (Biology (grade 8-12), Chemistry (grade 8-12), Earth Science (grade 8-12), General Science (grade 5 – 8), and Mathematics/Science (grade 5-8). Initial teaching licenses are valid for 5 years and can be renewed for an additional 5 years before professional
licensure coursework (including obtaining of a Master’s degree) is required.
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