Earth Science Education, B.S.

Visit the Earth Science Department page for more information on the program and access to advising.

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Earth Science Education combines a geology core with secondary education licensure preparation to equip students to teach Earth science at the secondary level. The program builds skills in observing and interpreting the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere, with hands-on study in areas such as astronomy, plate tectonics, mineralogy, climatology, hydrology, and environmental science. Integrating concepts from physics, chemistry, and quantitative methods, students develop a deep understanding of Earth and planetary systems and their relationship to society and the environment. Graduates gain pedagogical skills and subject matter expertise to excel in secondary education and pursue graduate studies. Graduates who complete all program and licensure requirements are recommended for the Utah Professional Educator License.

Matriculation Requirements

1. Complete the following courses: GEO 1010 Introduction to Geology, GEO 1015 Introduction to Geology Laboratory, MATH 1050 College Algebra (or MATH 1055 College Algebra with Preliminaries), MATH 1060 Trigonometry, Life Sciences BB with a grade of "C" or higher in each.
2. Complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of college credit.
3. Apply to the department of Earth Science for admission.
4. Completion of an exit interview with the Earth Science Department chair and a Qualtrics Exit Survey prior to graduation.

Secondary Education Requirements

1. ENGL and MATH QL courses must have a grade C or higher.
2. GPA of 2.7 or higher with no grade lower than a C in content area courses.
3. Completion of all General Education requirements and 70% of content area courses.
4. Pass LiveScan Criminal Background Check.

Program Requirements

¹

This requirement is fulfilled with the core requirements.

Graduation Requirements

1. Completion of a minimum of 120 semester credits.
2. Overall GPA of 2.7 (B-) or above with no grade lower than a C in major required content courses and no grade lower than a B- in Licensure and Methods courses. (Departments may require a higher GPA.)
3. Residency hours -- minimum of 20 credit hours through course attendance at UVU.
4. Completion of GE and specified departmental requirements.
5. Grade of C or higher in all GEO, BIOL, and METO courses.
6. Successful completion of at least one Global/Intercultural course.
7. Successful completion of at least two writing enriched (WE) courses.

Graduation Plan

This graduation plan is a sample plan and is intended to be a guide. Your specific plan may differ based on your Math and English placement and/or transfer credits applied. You are encouraged to meet with an advisor and set up an individualized graduation plan in Wolverine Track.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Integrate the processes encompassed within the rock cycle, plate tectonics, and deep time into secondary education curriculum.
2. Communicate complex scientific concepts to secondary education students in a clear and engaging manner.
3. Demonstrate effective, engaging, and individualized teaching and assessment strategies specifically tailored to Earth science education.
4. Guide students in evaluating scientific information, making evidence-based conclusions, and developing a scientific mindset that values curiosity, skepticism, and evidence.
5. Cultivate a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world in students, while fostering a desire to explore and understand Earth science beyond the classroom to become future stewards of the Earth.