Chemistry 7-12, B.S., Secondary Education Concentration

Department Contact:

Chair (Chemistry): Dr. Michele Hargittai, mhargittai@francis.edu, 814-472-2775

Chair (Education): Dr. Stephanie Ivory, sivory@francis.edu, 814-472-2844

Program Description:

The Chemistry major follows a curriculum that helps students acquire a strong foundation in basic concepts and principles of modern chemistry while gaining an appreciation of chemistry’s central role in society. All courses are taught and all research is facilitated by faculty members who are generous with their time and knowledge. Students can expect individual attention in their small lecture and laboratory classes. Course work is designed to help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, laboratory, computer, data acquisition and analysis, and research skills needed to be successful in their future endeavors. The Secondary Education concentration meets the demands of the students who plan to supplement the bachelor’s degree by a career in teaching.

Estimated Completion Time:

Typically 4 years of full-time study

Progression and/or Retention Criteria:

A student must complete an application for admission and be accepted into the Professional Teacher Preparation Program prior to registering for 300/400 level Education courses.

To be accepted into the Professional Teacher Preparation Program, the candidate must have:

• Completed no less than 48 credits as required by the PDE;             
• Achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA;                                                                          
• Achieved no grade lower than C in major and collateral courses;                                          
• Demonstrate proficiency in Basic Skills: Reading, Writing, and Mathematics (SAT exemption, ACT exemption, PAPA, and/or CORE, EDUC 421);                      
• Completed at least 6 semester hour credits in college level English;
• Complete at least 6 semester hour credits in college level Math;
• Completed EDUC 150;
• Met with advisor in the Education Department;
• A brief essay (“Why I Want to Pursue Teaching as a Career”);
• Letter of recommendation (Candidate must have a letter endorsed by a faculty member outside the Education Department).

Total Credits Required:

128 credits minimum

See requirements for Education .