Science Credential Programs
California State University, Northridge
CSUN offers specialized training
California State University Northridge has one of the largest science education credentialing programs in the state of California. As a result of our size, we are able to offer specialized instruction in the teaching of science, rather than just the generalized teaching methods taught at many institutions. Students enroll in specialized science education courses such as: Methods of Teaching Science, Supervised Field Experience in Teaching Science, Computers in Science Teaching, Website Development for Science Teachers and Advanced Laboratory Curriculum Development . All professors hold doctoral degrees and have taught science in secondary schools. All field supervisors have had numerous years of experience as secondary school science teachers.
Why Teach Science?
Please take a few minutes to listen to what science teachers say. Check out the CSUN Advantage in Science Teacher Preparation! For more general information, visit Get-the-facts-out.
Science Credentialing Fields
At CSUN, you may earn credentials to teach general science, biology, chemistry, physics, and geoscience. All candidates must demonstrate competence in general science, which can be accomplished by a science bachelor's or graduate degree, passing the Foundation Level General Science (FLGS) CSET. The CSUN MSTI project provides free CSET preparation courses to help you prepare for the FGLS exam (215), which addresses basic concepts in physics, chemistry, biology and earth and space science .
If you plan to teach high school physics, chemistry, biology, or geoscience, you will also need to demonstrate subject matter competence in the respective fields. This can be accomplished if you have earned a degree in a field aligned with the credential you are seeking. For example, if you have a bachelor's degree in physics, your degree waives the requirement for the physics CSET exam. In addition, some degrees are considered to meet the subject matter requirements, even though their names don't match the name son the credentials.
You may meet the subject matter requirement by passing the appropriate CSET exam(s). The CSUN MSTI project offers free CSET preparation courses in Physics (220), Chemistry (218), and Biology (217).
Upon completion of coursework and field experiences, the CSUN Credential Office recommends science teacher candidates to the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing.
Careers in Science Education
There is a strong demand for science teachers in the state of California and throughout the nation. Our records show that during the past 20 years, more than 99% of those completing the credential programs in science have found jobs as science teachers. The demand for science teachers should remain strong despite economic recessions and fiscal cutbacks.
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