Secondary Education - Earth Science Northern Arizona University

Overview

The Secondary Education - Earth Science B.Sc. in Education (Hons) at Northern Arizona University offers a rigorous academic pathway for students aiming to teach geosciences at the secondary level. This comprehensive programme integrates deep scientific inquiry with professional teacher preparation to develop highly skilled educators for grades 6-12.

Students engage with a curriculum that spans physical and applied geology, planetary science, and environmental systems. The course is designed to provide a well-rounded scientific foundation by including essential studies in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that future teachers can address complex scientific topics with confidence.

A defining feature of this degree is its focus on research-based pedagogy and early classroom immersion.

Why Secondary Education - Earth Science at Northern Arizona University?

This programme is delivered through the innovative NAUTeach model, which is specifically designed to help science majors graduate with a teaching qualification within four years. The university provides a STEM-focused environment where students work closely with faculty experts in both education research and professional classroom practice.

Facilities at the School of Earth and Sustainability offer students access to high-quality laboratory and field equipment. The university's strong partnerships with local secondary schools facilitate extensive teaching practice, allowing students to develop and implement numerous STEM-based lesson units throughout their studies.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 29568 per year
• National fee: USD 29568 per year
• Local fee: USD 11352 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a minimum of 120 units, including major requirements, supporting sciences, and professional teacher preparation. Modules may include:

Major Course Requirements

• Physical Geology
• Historical Geology
• Geology of Arizona
• Mineralogy
• Geomorphology
• Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• Structural Geology
• Earth Science Oceanography
• Geologic Communication and Inquiry

Supporting Science and Maths

• Unity of Life
• Genetics and Evolution
• General Chemistry
• Calculus
• General Physics

Teacher Preparation

• Step 1 and 2: Inquiry Approaches to Teaching and Lesson Design
• Knowing and Learning in Mathematics and Science
• Classroom Interactions
• Project-Based Instruction
• Apprentice Teaching
• Perspectives on Science and Mathematics

Careers with Secondary Education - Earth Science

Graduates are primarily prepared for roles as secondary school teachers, curriculum specialists, and educational consultants. The programme's focus on Earth sciences also equips individuals for positions in environmental education centres, museums, and government agencies focused on public science outreach.

The rigorous training in both scientific methodology and communication makes graduates attractive to industries involving environmental monitoring and natural resource management. Many alumni pursue careers in public and private schools, while others continue their studies in educational leadership or advanced geosciences.