UWF-Teach Program

Introduction

The UWF-Teach program is a collaboration between the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering and the School of Education, designed to combine a passion for STEM with the power of teaching. This program provides a streamlined path to graduate in four years with both a STEM degree and full teacher certification.

Mission and Vision

The mission of UWF-Teach is to provide a multi-dimensional program for recruiting and retaining highly qualified STEM majors to become middle and secondary teachers. The program aims to expand the local learning community to support and mentor UWF-Teach candidates and program completers.

Program Highlights

• Graduate in four years with a STEM degree and teacher certification (Grades 612)
• Start classroom experiences early through introductory courses and practicum work
• Participate in internships with local schools and science learning centers
• Work closely with experienced mentors and faculty from both science and education

Program Structure

The UWF-Teach program follows a path of discovery, exploration, and reflection. Students can try out teaching through classroom observations and a 15-hour practicum, and then jump into real classrooms and community science centers to gain hands-on experience.

Teaching Specializations

The program offers several teaching specializations, including:

• Biology Teaching B.A.: Learn to teach life sciences with confidence.
• Chemistry Teaching B.A.: Prepare to teach chemistry and related sciences in grades 612.
• Earth and Environmental Science Teaching B.A.: Teach students to explore the natural world from climate systems to ecosystems.
• Mathematics Teaching B.A.: Help students build confidence in math through engaging, real-world instruction.
• Physics Teaching B.A.: Inspire curiosity and critical thinking through physics education.

Research Opportunities

As part of UWF-Teach, students have access to research opportunities and outreach initiatives that go beyond the classroom. These include:

• Undergraduate Research: Collaborate with faculty on real STEM or education-based research projects and present findings at conferences.
• Service Learning in Action: Design classroom lessons around projects like water quality testing, dune vegetation mapping, microplastic identification, and more.
• Teach to Avatar: Practice teaching in a safe, simulated environment with instant feedback a cutting-edge way to refine skills.

Accreditation

The UWF-Teach program is accredited based on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Standards through Spring 2030. CAEP is the only Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognized national accreditor for educator preparation.

University of West Florida

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Overview:

The University of West Florida (UWF) is a public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It prides itself on providing a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. UWF emphasizes a strong student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring individual attention and support.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UWF offers a vibrant campus community with various facilities and resources. Students can explore the Pensacola campus, UWF Emerald Coast in Fort Walton Beach, UWF Historic Trust in Historic Pensacola, and UWF's downtown Pensacola facilities. A virtual tour is available to experience the campus remotely.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Personalized Attention:

UWF boasts a 100:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support from world-renowned professors.

Diverse Programs:

Over 110 undergraduate and graduate programs cater to various interests and career aspirations.

Strong Reputation:

UWF is ranked #100 in the "Top Public School – Regional Universities South" by U.S. News and World Report.

Engaging Campus Life:

UWF offers a vibrant campus community with various facilities and resources, including a virtual tour for remote exploration.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

UWF actively engages in research and community outreach. Recent initiatives include:

Archaeology Institute Field Schools:

Offering students hands-on experience in archaeological investigations.

HeirStory Project:

Collaborating with a renowned journalist to develop technology for preserving family legacies.

Galapagos Islands Study Abroad:

Providing students with immersive cultural and historical experiences.