Elective Social Studies Teacher Certification
The program of study is designed to assure that prospective social studies teachers possess the knowledge, capabilities, and dispositions associated with the concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the disciplines that make up social studies education, and that they are able to create learning experiences which make these aspects of the subject matter meaningful for learners.
Students interested in teaching social studies education in secondary schools may pursue a Bachelor of Arts in History or Political Science or a Bachelor of Science in Geography while earning state certification in social studies education. West Chester University's program, is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Candidates should meet with the Department of Secondary Education and K12 Health and Physical Education to discuss the program plan based on their major area (History, Political Science, or Geography). The courses listed here are required for teacher certification.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| EDF 300 | Democracy and Education | 3 |
| EDP 280 | Developmental and Psychological Perspectives in Education | 3 |
| EDA 103 | Foundations of Special Education | 3 |
| EDA 303 | Special Ed: Processes/Procedures for General Educators | 2 |
| EDR 347 | Literacy Development and Secondary Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Classrooms | 3 |
| LAN/ENG 382 | Teaching English Language Learners PK-12 | 3 |
| ERM 355 | Ethical and Effective Assessment for Learning 7-12 | 3 |
| SED 100 | An Exploration of Secondary Education | 3 |
| SED 200 | Learning Environments and Field Experience in Secondary Schools | 3 |
| SED 300 | Principles of Teaching and Technology in the Secondary Classroom | 3 |
| SED 331 | Methods of Teaching Secondary Social Studies | 3 |
| SED 411 | Student Teaching Sec - 1st Half | 6 |
| SED 412 | Student Teaching Sec - 2nd Half | 6 |
| Total Minimum Credits Required | 42 | |
