General Science for Teachers program

Prepare to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists.

The Science for Teachers Minor offers education majors the opportunity to deepen their understanding of key scientific concepts and methodologies — skills that will empower you to teach science effectively in elementary and middle school classrooms. By adding this minor, you'll be equipped to foster a strong foundation in science for your students, helping them build critical thinking skills and a lasting curiosity for the world around them.

Undergrad minor

A program within the Physics Department

What is the General Science for Teachers Minor?

The Science for Teachers Minor is specifically designed for education majors who want to enrich their ability to teach science in elementary and middle school settings. This minor provides foundational knowledge in four key areas of scientific inquiry. You will also have the opportunity to specialize in one area, enabling you to bring deeper expertise to your classroom.

As part of the program, you’ll take at least one course in the following areas:

Biology
Physics
Geology
Astronomy

This program has been helpful toward teacher preparation because I have been able to take my experiences in the courses and find ways to relate them to my education course discussions. I also have a love for science, so this program has let me to continue to learn!

Anja Clauson

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This minor is available to students in the following majors:

Early Childhood Education (birth-grade 3)
Early Childhood Education and Special Education (birth-grade 3)
Elementary/Middle Education (grades K-9)
Elementary/Middle Education (grades K-9) & French Education (grades K-12)
Elementary/Middle Education (grades K-9) & Spanish Education (grades K-12)
Elementary/Middle Education (grades K-9) & Special Education (grades K-12)
Elementary/Middle Education (grades K-9) & TESOL (grades K-12)

What distinguishes UWL’s General Science for Teachers program?

Enhance your marketability

Adding the Science for Teachers Minor to your degree enhances your resume and makes you stand out in the job market. With specialized knowledge in science, you will be more attractive to school districts looking for educators with the expertise to inspire students in the STEM fields.

Foster curiosity and promote STEM learning

With more in-depth science knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to design engaging, hands-on experiments and projects that captivate students. The skills you develop will help you clarify scientific concepts, correct misconceptions, and make science feel accessible and exciting for students at various developmental levels.

Learn from talented science educators

UWL is known for its strong reputation in the sciences. Our faculty are passionate about teaching and research, and the classes are focused on real-world applications of science. Through hands-on experiments, research opportunities, and immersive learning, you’ll gain insights and inspiration that will influence your future teaching approach.

Prepare for the future of education

The Science for Teachers Minor is not just about learning scientific facts — it’s about developing the tools to teach science in a way that encourages students to think critically, ask questions, and explore the world around them. The program prepares you to become a confident, capable science educator who can meet the demands of modern classrooms.

Sample courses

PHY 106 Physical Science for Educators A survey course focusing on applied physical science and the nature of scientific knowledge. Fundamental theories about the nature and interactions of matter and energy are developed using self-paced, small group, inquiry based teaching modules. The scientific knowledge developed is applied to issues of technology in society and everyday use situations. Emphasis is on modeling science teaching practices advocated by state and national science education standards using active learner practices. Lect. 3, Lab. 2. Prerequisite: elementary/middle level education major. Offered Fall, Spring.

GEO 101 Earth Environments This course concentrates on understanding the earth's dynamic environments through the study of processes and physical and human interactions related to the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. A scientific approach is used to examine fundamental concepts in earth and environmental science related to topics such as plate tectonics, landform development, atmospheric processes, global climate, and water resources, in order to provide an understanding of how the earth system functions and the human role in these phenomena. Lect. 3, Lab 2. Offered Fall, Spring.

CI 461 Leadership for Elementary/Middle Science Education This course is designed to augment teacher candidates' basic understanding of science curriculum planning, teaching practices, student thinking, and assessment procedures for elementary and middle level classrooms. Special emphasis will be given to demonstrating leadership by participating in a professional learning community, integrated science learning, differentiation, funding an inquiry science program, and special programs to enhance and extend classroom science experiences for students. Prerequisite: EDS 402 or concurrent enrollment. Offered Fall.