2015-2016 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 29, 2024  
2015-2016 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Psychology (B.S.) - Teaching Specialization


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Program Coordinator/Contact
Brad Woldt, Department Head
Department of Psychology
Scobey Hall 336
605-688-4322
E-mail: bradley.woldt@sdstate.edu
www.sdstate.edu/psych
Click here for additional information.  

Program Information
Psychology is the discipline concerned with the study of behavior and mental processes. The teaching specialization prepares students to qualify for certification to teach psychology in one of thousands of schools nationwide.  Students pursuing this specialization should contact the College of Education and Human Sciences before their junior year.

Accreditation, Certification and Licensure
Accreditation
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education Programs (NCATE)
South Dakota Department of Education

Certification and Licensure
With this major and the accompanying teacher education coursework required for teaching licensure, candidates are eligible to take the Praxis content tests, and apply for a teaching license in South Dakota. Students are required to take the PRAXIS II content test, as well as the PRAXIS II Principles of Learning and Teaching test. The minimum score for the Praxis II PLT must be obtained for teaching licensure and varies by state.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Identify and explain the scientific foundation of psychology; use and evaluate scientific evidence for psychological claims.
  • Recognize the existence of universal and culture-bound psychological principles; exhibit sensitivity, appreciation, and respect for all dimensions of human diversity.
  • Demonstrate ethical knowledge and skills appropriate to level of experience and education.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of theory and research central to the four basic content domains of psychology: biological, learning and cognition, life-span developmental; and sociocultural approaches.
  • Gain an appreciation of the application of psychological knowledge through experiences applied settings, such as internships, student research, or service learning.

Course Delivery Format
Psychology courses are delivered at multiple locations (Brookings Main Campus and the University Center in Sioux Falls), and in multiple formats including face-to-face lecture, discussion, and laboratory courses, as well as online courses.

Requirements for Psychology Major - Teaching Specialization: 120 Credits


Bachelor of Science in Arts and Sciences

System General Education Requirements


College of Arts and Sciences Requirements


Bachelor of Science Requirements: 10+
  • Natural Sciences  Credits: 10+
    • Any two lab sciences.
    • Coursework must include 2 prefixes.
    • MATH and STATS courses do not count toward the science requirement.
  • One declared minor outside of the major prefix OR a second major OR a teaching specialization. The minor may be a traditional minor within one department or it may be interdisciplinary involving more than one department. The minor can be in a different college. The minor must be declared no later than the student’s third semester of enrollment.
  • Capstone course in the major discipline
  • Upper division coursework Credits: 33

SGRs, IGRs, and/or Major coursework may satisfy some or all of the above requirements. Consult program advisor for details. See the College of Arts and Sciences for additional information about Bachelor of Arts specifications.

Teaching Specialization Requirements


Additional Requirements


  • Students must also receive a “C” grade or better in  ,  , and   or higher.
  • There are GPA requirements for entry into and continuation within the teacher education program. For additional information please consult the Secondary Education Handbook.

Electives


Taken as needed to complete any additional degree requirements.

Total Required Credits: 120


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