Program Overview
The BA in Teaching of History program at UIC equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to become highly qualified secondary school history teachers. The program emphasizes critical thinking, historical analysis, effective teaching methodologies, and provides valuable classroom experience through its Educational Practice sequence. Graduates are prepared to meet the rigorous standards of the Illinois State Board of Education for secondary history teacher licensure and pursue rewarding careers in both public and private schools.
Program Outline
Outline:
Program Content
The BA in the Teaching of History program at UIC aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for a successful career as a secondary school history teacher. The program emphasizes critical thinking, historical analysis, and effective teaching methodologies. Students explore diverse historical topics, deepen their understanding of the past, and develop the ability to communicate historical knowledge effectively to students.
Program Structure
The program consists of 120 credit hours, encompassing a combination of history courses, education courses, and general education requirements.
History Courses:
- Required Courses: These courses provide a foundation in historical thinking, research, and writing. Students delve into various historical periods, regions, and themes, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the human experience across time and space.
- Elective Courses: Students can choose electives to tailor their studies to specific interests and explore specialized areas of history.
Education Courses:
- Foundations of Education: These courses introduce students to the theoretical and practical aspects of teaching and learning.
- Curriculum and Instruction: This course focuses on developing effective teaching strategies and designing engaging curriculum materials.
- Assessment and Evaluation: This course equips students with the skills to assess student learning and provide meaningful feedback.
- Educational Practice: This two-semester sequence provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world classroom settings under the guidance of experienced educators.
General Education:
Students complete a range of general education courses to broaden their intellectual horizons and develop essential skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Course Schedule
Other:
Program Benefits
- Become a highly qualified history teacher: The program prepares graduates to meet the rigorous standards of the Illinois State Board of Education for secondary history teacher licensure.
- Develop strong content knowledge and pedagogical skills: Gain the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach history at the secondary level.
- Gain valuable classroom experience: The program's culminating Educational Practice sequence provides students with hands-on experience in diverse classroom settings.
- Prepare for a rewarding career: History teachers are in high demand, with promising career opportunities available in both public and private schools.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum GPA of 2.75
- Completion of required coursework in English, mathematics, social studies, and science
- Passing score on the ACT or SAT
Application Process
- Submit an online application
- Official high school transcripts
- ACT or SAT scores
- Letter of recommendation
- Personal essay Students are encouraged to meet with the program advisor to discuss their academic goals and plan their course of study.
