Department of Science Education

Career Q&A

Q&A clip art

I like science, but I am not sure if the BS in Natural Sciences degree is the right degree program for me.  What career does a degree in Natural Sciences prepare me to do?

The B. S. in Natural Sciences is designed for students with broad science interests. The program provides excellent preparation for careers in: 

  • Formal educational settings, such as teaching science at the intermediate, or introductory high school level, thus it helps fulfill one of the requirements for admission into a single subject teaching credential program.
  • Informal science educational settings, such as museums, science outreach centers, nature centers, preserves, state parks, or national forests

I am interested in teaching high school science, is a BS in Natural Sciences the program for me?

The BS in Natural Sciences program is best suited for those who want to teach science at the intermediate (middle) school level, which is typically sixth to eighth grades. However, in some school districts, this may include ninth grade general science. If you are interested in teaching science in high school in a specific subject area such as AP physics, or chemistry, you should obtain an undergraduate degree in the specific science discipline.

How are the Science Education (SCED) courses different than similar courses in other science departments?

The Science Education (SCED) courses are designed specifically for future science educators, by faculty with expertise in both a specific science discipline and science education. Students in SCED courses learn both the science content and its application in the context of their future teaching practice across multiple science disciplines (earth science, life sciences, physical and environmental science).

I want to learn more about the BS in Natural Sciences, whom should I contact?

Call to make an appointment with Dr. Monet, at (530) 898-4599 or (530) 898-3460, or email jmonet@csuchcio.edu.

What is the career outlook for middle school teachers?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics1, employment of middle school teachers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Rising student enrollment should increase demand for middle school teachers, but employment growth will vary by region.

From 2016 to 2026, a significant number of older teachers are expected to reach retirement age. Their retirement will increase the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. Opportunities will vary by region and school setting. There may be better opportunities in urban and rural school districts than in suburban school districts. Flexibility in job location may increase job prospects.

chart of statistics of middle school teacher employment

chart comparing middle school teachers to other teaching occupations

Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.

Source:1U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Middle School Teachers, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/middle-school-teachers.htm(opens in new window) (visited June 06, 2018).

Who can I contact if I want to learn more about the single-subject credential program?

For pre-program advising please contact Amanda Taylor in Tehama 102, call 530-898-6421 to schedule an appointment, or email ataylor50@csuchico.edu.

For more information visit: Single Subject Credential Program

Nora Aguilar-McKay

Single Subject Credential with Bilingual Authorization Pathway Coordinator

Tehama 213, call 530-898-6402 to schedule an appointment, or email
naguilarmckay@csuchico.edu 

For more information visit: Bilingual Multiple Subject Credential(opens in new window)

I want to apply to the credential program at CSU, Chico, how do I get started?

SOE Admissions Guide - Getting Started (PDF)