What you will study
At the University of Central Missouri, our BSE program curriculum includes core content
for Earth Science degrees such as scientific study and teaching methods. In preparation
for how to become an earth science teacher, you’ll also learn to understand your future
students and work with them compassionately as you study adolescent development and
psychology.
Earth science teachers must be able to adapt to different standards of technology
and accessibility in their classrooms. To ensure your success, we offer training on
a range of equipment. Our science labs include science equipment found in standard
high school classrooms as well as the newest tools. Work with lab instrumentation
such as wireless sensors and learn how to use multiple software programs. You’ll emerge
from our undergraduate degree program ready for the future of science education.
As you progress through the Secondary Education program in Earth Science, you’ll spend
less time in science labs or classrooms on UCM’s campus in Warrensburg and more time
in the field working with our nearby communities. By the time you spend your final
semester student teaching, you’ll have built a strong foundation with teaching and
earth science courses such as:
- Weather and Climate: Study principles and theories of atmospheric phenomena, as well as the cultural implications
of weather, climate and climate change.
- Science and Engineering Practices: Dive deep into how scientists “do science”. Perform your own experiments and investigate
how science, technology, engineering and modern society relate.
- Psychology of Adolescence: Take a close look at the factors that inform and support positive development during
the critical teen years.
Excellence in Earth Science
- Science Education programs are accredited by the National Association of Science Teachers
(NSTA).
- UCM has been recognized by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
(CAEP) longer than any other public institution in Missouri.
- Top 15%: Most Focused Colleges for Education (College Factual, 2022)
- One of the Most Focused Bachelor's Degree Colleges for Education (College Factual, 2022)
- One of the Most Focused Colleges for Secondary Education (College Factual, 2022)
- Top 4.5%: Most Popular Colleges for Secondary Education (College Factual, 2022)
- Top 5%: Most Popular Bachelor's Degree Colleges for Secondary Education (College Factual,
2022)
- Top 10%: Best Value in Education (College Factual, 2021)
Unique learning opportunities in earth science
You’ll have ample experience in both university and secondary school science classrooms
during your time at UCM. Our co-teaching model and emphasis on experiential learning
ensures that you’ll be well-prepared in how to become an earth science teacher in
any school district in Missouri.
Field experience: Over 100 hours of time observing, assisting and finally teaching classes will ground
and give context to the work you do back at UCM and in your future classroom.
Student teaching semester: Your academic studies, mastery of teaching methods and principles and skills with
all the tools of the science lab will prepare you to spend most of your senior spring
as an earth science teacher in a public school classroom. Your faculty mentors and
program community will be there to guide and support you every step of the way.
What can you do with an Earth Science BSE?
With a Secondary Education BSE from UCM, you’ll be qualified to apply for educator
certification through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
(DESE). Your certification enables you to step into life as an earth science teacher
anywhere in the state. Our graduates of Education in Earth Science degrees enjoy nearly
100% employment rates.
The state and nationwide shortage of new teachers with earth science degrees means
you’re likely to have multiple job opportunities upon graduation. Find the right fit
for you by working with your faculty team and the network of educators and administrators
you’ve built over the course of your bachelor’s degree program.
Advanced teaching or graduate earth science degrees can expand your career horizon.
After you’ve worked as an earth science teacher, you may decide to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching, such as the one offered at UCM, to become a strong candidate for competitive science
and teaching job opportunities.
Learn more about how to become an earth science teacher
To get a better idea of the current job market for those with earth science degrees,
use the interactive tool below. Exploring career paths, salary data and more, you’ll
likely discover earth science teachers typically have excellent job options and career
stability.
Financial assistance options for your Earth Science BSE
The University of Central Missouri has a long tradition of offering high-quality teacher
training at rates teachers can afford. We keep our tuition low and distribute over
$21 million in financial aid each year. We offer many options to finance your college education and have been recognized for our commitment to low student debt.
With the possibility of a steady job as an earth science teacher and ample financing
options at one of the country’s most affordable universities, you can build your post-graduation
life and career on solid financial ground.
Learn more about scholarships for future earth science teachers at the UCM Scholarship Finder.
Expert Faculty Mentors
Learn from a close-knit, caring team of professionals
Many of our faculty have earth science degrees themselves, with backgrounds in mining
and mineral exploration, petroleum geology, environmental and engineering geology,
hydrology, paleontology and more. You’ll not only benefit from their expertise in
science education but also gain insight and perspective from their professional experience.
150+ Years of Teacher Training
A long tradition of excellence
Since our founding in 1871, the University of Central Missouri has placed a high value
on training teachers. We believe that a vital, healthy society depends on quality
education. As a skilled earth science teacher in Missouri schools, you’ll help strengthen
and shape your community’s character.
More information
Get Certified
Be eligible to teach anywhere in Missouri
Prospective earth science teachers with a BSE from our accredited Education program
can apply for educator certification through the Missouri Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education (DESE). You’ll be eligible to apply for certification in grades
9–12 earth science and unified science.
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