2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 29, 2024  
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Physics (B.S.) - Science Teaching Specialization


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Academic Programs - Majors, Minors, Certificates

Program Coordinator/Contact
Joel Rauber, Department Head
Department of Physics
Daktronics Engineering Hall 255
605-688-5428
E-mail: joel.rauber@sdstate.edu
http://www.sdstate.edu/phys
Click here for additional information.  

Program Information
Physics is the foundation of almost all of the science and engineering disciplines. The curriculum in Physics has the flexibility to accommodate a wide range of student interests including engineering, physical science, mathematics, biological science, or health sciences. Graduates find careers in physics research, education, engineering, medicine, nuclear medicine, law, science journalism or alternatively many other choices.

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Physics - Science Teaching Specialization, students will:

  • Typically be employed as a K-12 science educator or will opt to pursue advanced degrees in education.
  • Compare favorably in their basic physics knowledge with students completing similar programs nationally.
  • Have developed a basic understanding of the theoretical and mathematical underpinnings of the discipline.
  • Have learned the fundamental principles of experimental design, and will have an operational understanding of how to collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data.
  • Know how to apply technical knowledge and use appropriate scientific tools to solve problems in a pedagogical setting; both as individuals and as team partners.
  • Have a basic understanding of contemporary issues and professional/ethical responsibilities within a local and global context.

Academic Requirements
The program requires a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above for all physics courses and a GPA 2.0 or above in PHYS 211-213 (or PHYS 111-113) and PHYS 331.

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.

Course Delivery Format
Physics students learn through hands-on and face to face learning in lecture, laboratory, and field based experiences.

Requirements for Physics Major - Science Teaching Specialization: 120 Credits


Bachelor of Science in Arts and Sciences 

System General Education Requirements


Institutional Graduation Requirements


  • Goal #1 First Year Seminar: PHYS 109  or UC 109  Credits: 2
  • Goal #2 Cultural Awareness and Social and Environmental Responsibility:  ANTH 421-521 Credits: 3

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.

Total Required Credits: 120


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Academic Programs - Majors, Minors, Certificates