As the importance of STEM education grows, we need teachers that can inspire students to maximize their potential with the latest pedagogical innovations. The pre-teaching minor at Clarkson University prepares you for a teaching career before you graduate. Enhance your degree and embark on a meaningful path by completing specialized courses and gaining pre-professional experience.
Why Minor in Pre-Teaching at Clarkson?
The pre-teaching program at Clarkson prepares you for master's degrees in education in New York State. By obtaining a degree in your discipline along with the pre-teaching minor, you have choices after graduation, should you choose to pursue an MAT immediately or later.
You will receive personalized guidance to ensure you are fulfilling the prerequisites for advanced degrees. Gain field experience through classroom observations and independent study. By the time you graduate, you will be ready to take the next step toward certification and an in-demand career.
What You'll Learn
Discipline-specific pedagogy
Education theory
Psychology
Science and mathematical theory
Review the full curriculum below.
The core courses for the minor are:
PY151 Introduction to Psychology
PY246 Educational Psychology
COMM217 Introduction to Public Speaking
ED560 Modern Teacher
STEM330/STEM530 Analyzing Science and Mathematical Theories from Philosophical and Historical Perspectives (for STEM majors)
or MA453/MA553 Introduction to Mathematical Teaching (for Math majors or STEM majors)
or an upper-level course within your major as approved by the pre-teaching minor advisor
Students are also required to complete an independent study component. Students must observe 25 hours in secondary classrooms and complete a paper after. The following course can fulfill this requirement:
ED300 Educational Field Experience (1 credit)
Career Possibilities
Students who complete the pre-teaching minor and MAT can pursue roles in public and independent schools across New York, the U.S. and the world. Through this pathway, students become eligible for certification in New York State and prepare to meet the steady demand for K-12 educators.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions for elementary, middle and high school teachers are expected to increase by 4 to 5 percent between 2021 and 2031.
The Institute for STEM Education supports the next generation of STEM educators through outreach programs, travel grants, education "boot camps" and scholarships.
Learn how to inspire and guide the next generation. If you see yourself making a difference with a pre-teaching minor from Clarkson University, take the next step.
