Teacher of Secondary Science Initial Licensure Certificate Program

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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.

Admission Requirements

Licensure Preparation Stage I (Introduce): Education Core (9 credits)

Licensure Preparation Stage IIA (Practice): SEI and Methods (5.5 - 8.5 credits)

Licensure Preparation Stage IIB (Practice): Advanced Teaching Methods (4 credits)

Licensure Preparation Stage III (Demonstrate): Practicum (3-6 credits)

Total Credits: 21.5 - 27.5

Variable Credit

Variable credit programs are designed to address a student’s academic plan while adhering to the program requirements and standards of the profession. Based on their background (e.g., prior coursework, select endorsements), some students may be approved for the minimum number of credits of the program and other students may need additional coursework. Students will work with the Graduate Program Coordinator to determine the best fit of courses within the structure of the program and propose the Plan of Study to the School of Graduate Studies for review and approval.