Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Earth and Space Science Education] From Brigham Young University

Students graduating with a B.S. in Earth and Space Science Education will have completed a degree that involves two academic components: 1) formal training in the Earth and space sciences and 2) formal training in education. The underlying core values and philosophies of this program are those espoused in the Brigham Young University Mission and AIMS. The Earth science content is designed to give broad training in traditional geological science courses with an emphasis on geological processes, Earth history, and human interaction with Earth. Students take multiple classes in geology, physics, chemistry, and astronomy. This training allows students to become competent science teachers and gives them a framework within which to pursue graduate studies if they so choose. The science curriculum is comprehensive enough to place students in teaching positions in both junior high and high school.

The professional education component will assist graduates to become outstanding professional educators as well as productive citizens in their communities. Course work that will prepare them to deal with the challenges facing public school students today, as well as the tools to enable lifelong learning as educational needs and models change. We support the science teaching standards as outlined by the National Research Council and National Academy of Sciences. Students take courses in multicultural education, adolescent development, and exceptionalities through the David O. McKay School of Education. They also take specialized courses in the College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences to model the pedagogy of teaching earth and space science, effectively dealing with laboratory safety, and managing the typical range of classroom problems teachers face when conducting labs, demonstrations, and field trips.