Program Overview

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Science Studies offers a unique opportunity to either become a secondary science teacher or explore a variety of careers. The program's goal is to provide well-rounded science understanding and the ability to utilize this perspective in the real world.

Program Details

This program is designed for individuals who:

• Are looking for the quickest pathway to becoming a science teacher, without needing a master’s degree
• Seek a flexible program where they can pick their combination of science interests and disciplines for their future classroom, creating a pathway to a successful career
• Want to teach science but not in a traditional classroom setting, but perhaps in a non-traditional educational environment

Program Requirements

The Bachelor of Science in Science Studies has two different primary purposes:

Licensure

• Option 1 is a pathway to teaching licensure, focusing on two different areas of emphasis, with the outcome a 7-12 teaching license. Additionally, students may add up to four disciplines in science, including the all-science endorsement in the State of Iowa.

Non-licensure

• Option 2: A bachelor’s degree in science studies can be used as a pathway toward a career or further studies, without a science teaching license. Students obtaining this degree often head into the workforce in fields like the DNR, CCC, National Parks, or science centers. Some students also use this degree as an undergraduate degree toward a future master’s program. The goal of this degree is flexibility for students to make their own pathway.

Faculty Expertise

The faculty are experts in:

• Science Education
• Science Teacher
• Biology Education
• Chemistry Education
• Physics Education
• Earth Science Education
• Experiential learning
• Action Research
• Argument-based
• STEM education

Program Availability

This degree is available to all students at the University of Iowa. Those pursuing a teaching license must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program.