Earth Science Teaching (5-12) (BS)

Catalog Year 2025-2026

Program Requirements

Required General Education

Broad survey of astronomy: the night sky, seasons, moon phases, eclipses, light, telescopes, stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, cosmology, the solar system.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Study of biological processes at the suborganismal level including cell chemistry, metabolism, reproduction, genetics, and complex tissue physiology. Laboratory and discussion sessions stress problem solving and experimental design.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Introduction to the basic principles of chemistry including atomic and molecular structure, bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, thermodynamics and states of matter. Laboratory will reinforce lecture concepts. Other prerequisites: High school chemistry or C (2.0) or higher in CHEM 104. C (2.0) or higher in MATH 112 or student must demonstrate math placement requirements at or above MATH 115 in the placement chart. See Mathematics for details.

Prerequisites:
CHEM 104 and Select 1 Course: MATH 112, MATH 113, MATH 115, MATH 121. High school chemistry or "C" (2.0) or higher in CHEM 104. "C" (2.0) or higher in MATH 112 or student must demonstrate math placement requirements at or above MATH 115 in the placement chart. See Mathematics for details.
Goal Areas:
GE-02, GE-03

Physical geology is the study of how the earth works. From mountain building to soil erosion, this course provides an introduction to all the main areas of geologic study. Lecture discussions and laboratory exercises are designed for students seeking a major or minor in one of the natural sciences.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03, GE-10

Addresses drugs and drug use from psychological, behavioral, pharmacological, historical, legal and clinical perspectives - while examining the effects of drug use on personal health and social functioning.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-05

The purpose of this course is for teacher candidates to engage in self-reflection to deeply explore their intersectional identity. Furthermore, teacher candidates will examine historic and ongoing systemic inequities in education. Finally, teacher candidates will analyze the implications of systemic oppression on pedagogy, curriculum, communication, relationships, and learning in classrooms.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-11, GE-7A
Diverse Cultures:
Gold

Major Common Core

Techniques for observing with the naked eye, binoculars and small telescopes; constellation and star identification; use of star atlases and handbooks; observations of stars, binaries, clusters, nebulae, planets and the sun and moon, etc. Students will also learn how astronomical theories are formulated and tested by observing phenomena in the sky. Evening observing labs required.

Prerequisites:
AST 101
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Study of biological processes at the organismal level including a survey of life forms (viruses, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals), their evolution, and ecology. Laboratory and discussion sessions stress problem solving and experimental design.

Prerequisites:
none

An examination of the processes involved in weather formation. Students will be introduced to weather map analysis, simple forecasting and observational techniques, and weather instruments.

Prerequisites:
none

This course explores the scientific study of earth's surface, through investigating landscapes and landforms, their characteristics, origin and evolution, and the biologic, chemical, and physical processes that create these landscapes and landforms through time. Fundamental linkages between process and form and climate/climate change, earth materials, geologic structures, plate tectonics, and biological systems will be examined. Implications of anthropogenic influences on processes and modification of earth's surface will also be assessed. Laboratory exercises and field trips are required.

Prerequisites:
none

The characteristics of particular climates and understanding the factors that control their spatial distribution.

Prerequisites:
none

An examination of the development and evolution of life on earth. In addition to reviewing the range of life forms and global climates existing on earth during various times in its geologic past, we will also look at how global industrialization could lead to the earth's next period of mass extinction. Weekly laboratory assignments help illustrate principles discussed in lectures.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Examination of the elemental composition and crystal structure of various common minerals. Laboratory time is spent practicing techniques of identifying crystals and minerals. The importance and occurrence of many economic minerals is also covered thoroughly in this course.

Prerequisites:
GEOL 100 or GEOL 107 or GEOL 121

An integrated, multi-disciplinary study of the Earth and the solar system. The course builds on basic concepts of astronomy, chemistry and geology to give students an enhanced understanding of the nature and relationship among the forces that control the Earth's evolution. Learning outcomes partially fulfill licensure requirements for secondary science educators.

Prerequisites:
AST 101, CHEM 201, GEOL 121

General background in physical concepts for those who do not plan advanced study in physics or engineering. Topics include mechanics, fluids, heat and thermodynamics. Lecture and laboratory.

Prerequisites:
Either MATH 112 and MATH 113, or MATH 115
Goal Areas:
GE-02, GE-03

Includes waves and sound, electricity and magnetism, light and optics, and topics in modern physics. Lecture and laboratory.

Prerequisites:
PHYS 211

* PHYS 221, 222, PHYS 223, 232, and PHYS 233 may substitute for PHYS 211 or PHYS 212. Consult with your advisor.

Major Restricted Electives

Course Electives - Choose 9 Credit(s). Must choose from at least two different departments.

Survey of our solar system: the sun, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and meteoroids; history of the discovery and exploration of the solar system.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03

The course will be an introduction to the analysis of spatial data using the concept of a geographic information system (GIS). Content of the course will be, to a great extent, based on the NCGIA core curriculum with assignments tailored to the data and software available within the department such as ArcGIS.

Prerequisites:
none

Survey of natural resources emphasizing energy, minerals, soils, fisheries, and water resources. Also addresses timber, wetlands, and wildlife on public and private lands.

Prerequisites:
none

Study of the compositions and origins of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks in a plate tectonic context. Topics include mineral optics and geochemistry. Lab portion of course emphasizes identification and study of rocks.

Prerequisites:
GEOL 201

Study of the processes and results of rock deformation at scales ranging from microscopic to plate tectonic, and at conditions ranging from the Earth's surface to the deep interior.

Prerequisites:
GEOL 100 or GEOL 107or GEOL 121

This course introduces physical and chemical studies of hydrogeology. The main areas of discussion will include the physical and chemical attributes of aquifers, movement of ground-water and solute through soils and rocks, and reactions between earth materials and pollutants in ground-water systems. The class includes extensive use of MODFLOW and MT3D, the two most commonly usedgroundwater modeling programs currently available.

Prerequisites:
GEOL 100 or GEOL 107or GEOL 121

Research Electives - Choose 1 - 3 Credit(s).

Various excursions to study physical and cultural landscapes inside and outside of Minnesota.

Prerequisites:
none

Topics vary in physical, cultural, economic, political, and historical geography, as well as environmental conservation and geographic techniques.

Prerequisites:
none

An assignment that is tailored to individual needs of a student. An arrangement is made that the student works on a project (term paper, readings, mapping, field investigation,GIS, or related topics).

Prerequisites:
Consent

.

Prerequisites:
none

Other Graduation Requirements

See the K-12 Teaching Programs section of the catalog for admission requirements for professional education and for a list of required professional education courses.
All students seeking a teaching license must meet and maintain the requirements to be admitted into professional education.

4-Year Plan

The 4-Year Plan is a model for completing your degree in a timely manner. Your individual 4-Year plan may change based on a number of variables including transfer courses and the semester/year you start your major. Carefully work with your academic advisors to devise your own unique plan.
* Please meet with your advisor on appropriate course selection to meet your educational and degree goals.

First Year

Fall - 15 Credits

Broad survey of astronomy: the night sky, seasons, moon phases, eclipses, light, telescopes, stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, cosmology, the solar system.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Students in this course approach writing as a subject of study by investigating how writing works across a variety of contexts.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-1A

Study of biological processes at the suborganismal level including cell chemistry, metabolism, reproduction, genetics, and complex tissue physiology. Laboratory and discussion sessions stress problem solving and experimental design.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Physical geology is the study of how the earth works. From mountain building to soil erosion, this course provides an introduction to all the main areas of geologic study. Lecture discussions and laboratory exercises are designed for students seeking a major or minor in one of the natural sciences.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03, GE-10

Spring - 16 Credits

Study of biological processes at the organismal level including a survey of life forms (viruses, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals), their evolution, and ecology. Laboratory and discussion sessions stress problem solving and experimental design.

Prerequisites:
none

An examination of the development and evolution of life on earth. In addition to reviewing the range of life forms and global climates existing on earth during various times in its geologic past, we will also look at how global industrialization could lead to the earth's next period of mass extinction. Weekly laboratory assignments help illustrate principles discussed in lectures.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Introduction to the basic principles of chemistry including atomic and molecular structure, bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, thermodynamics and states of matter. Laboratory will reinforce lecture concepts. Other prerequisites: High school chemistry or C (2.0) or higher in CHEM 104. C (2.0) or higher in MATH 112 or student must demonstrate math placement requirements at or above MATH 115 in the placement chart. See Mathematics for details.

Prerequisites:
CHEM 104 and Select 1 Course: MATH 112, MATH 113, MATH 115, MATH 121. High school chemistry or "C" (2.0) or higher in CHEM 104. "C" (2.0) or higher in MATH 112 or student must demonstrate math placement requirements at or above MATH 115 in the placement chart. See Mathematics for details.
Goal Areas:
GE-02, GE-03
General Education Course * 3 credits

Second Year

Fall - 15 Credits

Techniques for observing with the naked eye, binoculars and small telescopes; constellation and star identification; use of star atlases and handbooks; observations of stars, binaries, clusters, nebulae, planets and the sun and moon, etc. Students will also learn how astronomical theories are formulated and tested by observing phenomena in the sky. Evening observing labs required.

Prerequisites:
AST 101
Goal Areas:
GE-03

Examination of the elemental composition and crystal structure of various common minerals. Laboratory time is spent practicing techniques of identifying crystals and minerals. The importance and occurrence of many economic minerals is also covered thoroughly in this course.

Prerequisites:
GEOL 100 or GEOL 107 or GEOL 121

General background in physical concepts for those who do not plan advanced study in physics or engineering. Topics include mechanics, fluids, heat and thermodynamics. Lecture and laboratory.

Prerequisites:
Either MATH 112 and MATH 113, or MATH 115
Goal Areas:
GE-02, GE-03

An examination of the processes involved in weather formation. Students will be introduced to weather map analysis, simple forecasting and observational techniques, and weather instruments.

Prerequisites:
none

Spring - 16 Credits

In this course, teacher candidates will explore the equitable use of current and new technologies to support the wide range of student learning variability, while addressing safe, culturally responsive, and ethical use. Teacher candidates will also discuss innovative educational technologies to reflect on their use for professional, personal, and community purposes.

Prerequisites:
none

Includes waves and sound, electricity and magnetism, light and optics, and topics in modern physics. Lecture and laboratory.

Prerequisites:
PHYS 211

The purpose of this course is for teacher candidates to engage in self-reflection to deeply explore their intersectional identity. Furthermore, teacher candidates will examine historic and ongoing systemic inequities in education. Finally, teacher candidates will analyze the implications of systemic oppression on pedagogy, curriculum, communication, relationships, and learning in classrooms.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-11, GE-7A
Diverse Cultures:
Gold

The purpose of this course is for teacher candidates to apply a critical lens to unit and lesson planning to foster critical thinking, discussion, engagement, and inquiry. Teacher candidates will examine cognitive processes associated with learning. Teacher candidates will also explore theory and methods to develop equitable, accessible, and culturally sustaining learning experiences to eliminate barriers to learning, including asset-based pedagogy, and identity affirming classroom environments.

Prerequisites:
none

Addresses drugs and drug use from psychological, behavioral, pharmacological, historical, legal and clinical perspectives - while examining the effects of drug use on personal health and social functioning.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-05
General Education Course * 3 credits

Third Year

Fall - 16 Credits

Discussion of theories of value and obligation.

Prerequisites:
none
Goal Areas:
GE-06, GE-09

An integrated, multi-disciplinary study of the Earth and the solar system. The course builds on basic concepts of astronomy, chemistry and geology to give students an enhanced understanding of the nature and relationship among the forces that control the Earth's evolution. Learning outcomes partially fulfill licensure requirements for secondary science educators.

Prerequisites:
AST 101, CHEM 201, GEOL 121

This course explores the scientific study of earth's surface, through investigating landscapes and landforms, their characteristics, origin and evolution, and the biologic, chemical, and physical processes that create these landscapes and landforms through time. Fundamental linkages between process and form and climate/climate change, earth materials, geologic structures, plate tectonics, and biological systems will be examined. Implications of anthropogenic influences on processes and modification of earth's surface will also be assessed. Laboratory exercises and field trips are required.

Prerequisites:
none
General Education Course * 3 credits
Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Spring - 17 Credits

In this course teacher candidates will critically explore asset-based pedagogy grounded in anti-racist, culturally relevant, and responsive practices to differentiate instruction. Additionally, teacher candidates will explore their intersectional identity and the importance of ongoing self-reflective practices necessary to cultivate identity affirming learning environments and experiences for students. Finally, teacher candidates examine instructional strategies that model and explain concepts and skills in multiple ways to support the diverse needs of students.

Prerequisites:
none

In this course teacher candidates will explore strategies to cultivate learning experiences that are equitable, culturally relevant, justice-oriented, student-centered, and meaningful. Candidates will have an opportunity to create a unit plan, formative and summative assessments, and rubrics that emphasize multiple ways of expressing learning. Furthermore, candidates will examine grading practices and methods for providing/sharing feedback that supports learner variability and facilitating student ownership of their learning.

Prerequisites:
none

Methods and materials for teaching physical sciences in middle school through high school. Clinical experiences are required for the course.

Prerequisites:
Consent
Research/Methods Course * 1 credits
Elective Course in Major * 3 credits
General Education Course * 3 credits

Fourth Year

Fall - 14 Credits

In this course, teacher candidates will explore strategies to build strong relationships with and advocate for students, families, and the community. Candidates will examine ways that the curriculum addresses multiple perspectives, cultures and backgrounds to emphasize culturally sustaining learning experiences. They will explore professional responsibilities and teacher leadership roles. Finally, teachers will examine ways to use data and information gathered from the students, school, and caregivers to advocate and support students for positive change.

Prerequisites:
none

In this course, teacher candidates investigate how traditional methods of reading instruction can contribute to systemic oppression in classrooms and how anti-oppressive methods can help break the cycle of inequities in education. Teacher candidates apply understanding of systemic oppression and inequity to provide asset-based, ongoing support for students. This includes knowledge and implementation of content area reading instruction, recognizing the characteristics of reading disabilities and implementing accommodations to meet student needs, and using the language development framework to support multilingual learners.

Prerequisites:
none
General Education Course * 3 credits
General Education Course * 3 credits
Elective Course in Major * 2 credits

Spring - 12 Credits

In this seminar, teacher candidates will reflect upon and assess /discuss practices, experiences, challenges, and success in their student teaching experience.

Prerequisites:
none

In this course, teacher candidates apply learning from coursework to practice in the 5-12 classroom.

Prerequisites:
admission to student teaching.

Policies

Policies

The Earth Science Teaching (5-12) BS requires courses in the sciences, science teaching methods, professional education, and general education. Students must meet specific competencies to meet professional accreditation and licensure requirements. Students are strongly advised to select courses in general education that meet both general education and teaching program requirements.

GPA Policy. Students obtaining a degree in science teaching must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 in the sciences.

Pass/No Credit (P/NC) Grading Policy. Courses leading to a degree in science teaching may not be taken on a P/NC basis except where P/NC grading is mandatory.

Professional Education Standards

Students must meet and maintain the requirements for professional education. See the 5-12 or K-12 Teaching Programs section in the catalog for admission requirements for professional education and for a list of required professional education courses. 

Degree
Bachelor of Science

Major Credits
76

Total Credits
120

Locations
Mankato

Career Cluster
Education and Training

Accreditation
CAEP
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation


This program satisfies licensure-to-practice standards for Minnesota and may satisfy standards for other states or US territories.

Licensure/Certification Disclosure