2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]


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Physics (B.S.) - Science Teaching Specialization



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Program Coordinator/Contact

Douglas Raynie, Department Head
Department of Physics
Daktronics Engineering Hall 255
605-688-5428

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 .
  • A grade of “C” or better is required in SPCM 101 , ENGL 101 , PSYC 101 , and MATH 103  or higher (if these courses are in your plan of study), and all courses for the major (classes with department/program prefix).
  • An overall GPA of 2.5 is required to enroll in any education courses.

Accreditation, Certification, and Licensure

Accreditation

National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education Programs
South Dakota Department of Education

Certification and Licensure

  • Completion of an approved bachelor’s Secondary preparation program.
  • Completion of an approved Indian Studies course.
  • Pass the state designated content knowledge test or 2.7 GPA in content major coursework.
  • Pass the state designated pedagogy test.
  • Completion of a Suicide Awareness and Prevention training, available free online through the South Dakota Department of Education.
  • Apply online with the South Dakota Department of Education.
  • Written recommendation from institution of higher education (SDSU) verifying program completion.

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 Natural Sciences 

System General Education Requirements


Department of Physics Requirements


Bachelor of Science Requirements: 13+

  • Natural Sciences  Credits: 10+
    • Any two lab sciences.
    • Coursework must include 2 prefixes.
    • MATH and STAT courses do not count toward the science requirement.
  • AIS 211 - South Dakota American Indian Culture and Education (COM) [SGR #3] Credits: 3  
  • 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

System General Education and/or major coursework may satisfy some or all of the above requirements. Consult program advisor for details.

Total Required Credits: 120


Summary of Program Requirements


Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences

System General Education Requirements 33 Credit Hours
Department of Physics Requirements* 13+ Credit Hours
Major Requirements 49 Credit Hours
Teaching Specialization Requirements 34 Credits Hours
Electives** 1 Credit Hour

*System General Education Requirements, Major Requirements, and Supporting Coursework may satisfy some or all of the above requirements.  
**Taken as needed to complete any additional degree requirements.

Academic Advising Guide Sheet


The goal of the academic advising guide sheets and sample plans of study is to promote undergraduate student success by guiding all students to timely completion of an undergraduate degree. Students are not limited to the course sequence provided for their academic program. Instead, the sample plan of study is one possible path to completing your degree and is meant to be used as a guide for planning purposes in consultation with an academic advisor. The plans also help students prepare for meetings with their academic advisor and track their progress in their selected academic program.

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