Program Overview

AUTeach Program

The AUTeach program offers science students a hands-on path to explore science education while tackling Alabama's STEM teacher shortage. Students earn a double major in science and education, graduating certified to teach secondary science. This unique program enhances career prospects and graduate school opportunities.

What is AUTeach?

AUTeach is a program for undergraduate science students in the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM) designed to address the STEM teacher workforce crisis in Alabama in an innovative way. AUTeach provides the opportunity for COSAM students to explore the profession of science teaching through a hands-on approach. If you are a COSAM science student who enrolls in AUTeach, you can graduate with a double major in your science discipline and education, certified to teach secondary science in Alabama public schools.

Program Details

• Any COSAM student can take the AUTeach exploratory classes – Inquiry Approaches to Science teaching 1 and 2 (CTSE 1000 and CTSE 2000).
  • In these 1 credit hour courses, students who are interested in or curious about teaching learn and implement inquiry-based teaching strategies and participate in field experiences in local schools.
• Students who complete these courses with a B or better will receive a tuition reimbursement fellowship at the in-state level.

Why Now?

Alabama is facing a substantial teacher workforce crisis. While science teacher shortages and high turnover rates have been well-documented on a national level, Alabama averages 18% teacher turnover per year, with some districts reporting upwards of 32% attrition. This labor shortage is particularly acute within STEM fields; in some areas of the state's Black Belt, 80% of the STEM teacher workforce lacks full certification.

Student Benefits

The AUTeach program is designed to support you in your journey to earn a science degree and simultaneously earn a Secondary Science Education major. Benefits to joining the AUTearch program include:

• A tight-knit community of like-minded students in a cohort
• Free tutoring and Praxis preparation
• Funds for the state teacher background check
• A dedicated advisor to help AUteach students navigate their degree plans
• Scholarships to defray the costs associated with apprentice teaching and teacher certification
• Tuition reimbursement for CTSE 1000 and CTSE 2000
• Employment opportunities as peer tutors, AUTeach ambassadors, and more
• Teaching-centric paid internship program for AUTeach students to hone teaching, planning, and mentoring skills
• Assistance in applying for external funds
• Doubling post-graduation career options
• Tailored support during your time as a student and post-graduation