Elective Social Studies Teacher Certification

College of Education and Social Work

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. 

Required Courses
EDF 300Democracy and Education3
EDP 280Developmental and Psychological Perspectives in Education3
EDA 103Foundations of Special Education3
EDA 303Special Ed: Processes/Procedures for General Educators2
EDR 347Literacy Development and Secondary Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Classrooms3
LAN/ENG 382Teaching English Language Learners PK-123
ERM 355Ethical and Effective Assessment for Learning 7-123
SED 100An Exploration of Secondary Education3
SED 200Learning Environments and Field Experience in Secondary Schools3
SED 300Principles of Teaching and Technology in the Secondary Classroom3
SED 331Methods of Teaching Secondary Social Studies3
SED 411Student Teaching Sec - 1st Half6
SED 412Student Teaching Sec - 2nd Half6
Total Minimum Credits Required42