Bachelor of Education - Middle School Science

The Bachelor of Education with a major in Middle School Science is an immersive, forward-thinking program designed to shape the next generation of dynamic middle school science teachers. The program merges multidisciplinary science content knowledge with innovative pedagogical strategies, empowering educators to become leaders in science education. Candidates engage in collaborative clinical experiences, preparing them to inspire diverse classrooms in a rapidly evolving educational landscape. Supervised field experiences are required. Rooted in experiential learning and cutting-edge educational practices, this program meets accreditation and licensure standards required by Indiana for Middle School Science Grades 5-9.

Upon completion of the program, candidates will demonstrate the ability to:

Conduct scientific investigations, collecting and analyzing data to form testable hypotheses. (InMS-S 1.1-1.8)
Explain the interconnections between science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and their societal impacts. (InMS-S 2.1-2.5)
Apply the engineering design process to develop, test, and modify prototypes based on defined criteria and constraints. (InMS-S 3.1-3.6)
Describe key concepts in physical science, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, energy transformations, and Earth systems. (InMS-S 4.1-4.16, 5.1-5.15)
Analyze the structure and function of cells, genetics, and ecosystems to explain biological processes and relationships. (InMS-S 6.1-6.13)
Demonstrate professional, moral, and ethical behaviors and dispositions grounded in related biblical principles.
Implement methods of teaching in science that are appropriate for middle school learners. (InD-MS-S 3.1-3.3)
Apply concepts that meet the learning needs of middle school learners with diverse backgrounds and different abilities. (InD-MS 3.6, 3.8)
Apply best practices to data-driven decision-making, instructional planning, and delivery.  (InD-MS 3.3)
Communicate through the use of current technology with stakeholders in the field of education. (InD-MS 6.1, 6.2, 6.4)(ISTE)
Design a safe, productive, equitable, and inclusive learning environment using sound classroom management strategies and high standards for all middle school learners. (InD-MS 5.1-5.3)

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements are as follows:

Proof of high school graduation or GED certification.
Original transcripts from all previous college or university study at college or university that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
A signed FERPA Release Form.
A criminal history background check that meets school guidelines.

Competency-based education candidates must successfully complete the student Education CBE Orientation course.

NOTE: Applicants should be aware that Indiana State Legislation has mandated that expanded background checks are required for those working with students in Indiana schools. Applicants will also be required to adhere to any additional State Mandates required for educators. Though candidates will be required to submit an initial background check as a part of their application materials, this background check will only serve to gain admittance to the academic program. School corporations are governed by a locally elected Board of Trustees who set policy for their school corporation. All accepted candidates should understand that additional background checks at the candidate’s expense may be required by school corporations before participating in clinical experiences.

Program Requirements

All candidates will be required to provide passing scores for Indiana’s approved content area examination(s) based on the following schedule, or will be administratively withdrawn from the program:
- If scheduled for student teaching in September, testing is due the preceding April 1st.
- If scheduled for student teaching in January, testing is due the preceding September 1st.

Clinical Experience Requirements

All candidates must complete field experiences throughout the program as well as a 14-week full-time student teaching experience in a 5-9 classroom.
All core coursework prior to student teaching must be completed with a minimum grade of no less than “C” in each course to be eligible to student teach.
All clinical placements will be made by the Office of Clinical Experiences, unless otherwise outlined in course curriculum. Candidates are not to contact any school or attempt to secure their own student teaching assignment at any time.
Removal from a clinical experience may result in the candidate not passing the course and/or being permanently withdrawn from the program.

Graduation Requirements

The following graduation requirements must be met:

Completion of 90 credit hours.
Completion of 30 hours of general education requirements as specified (General Education Requirements).
Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Completion of the required major courses with a GPA of 2.75 or higher.
Successfully complete all Clinical Experience requirements associated with the program.
Provide passing scores for all required state licensure content and pedagogy examinations.
Payment of all tuition and fees is required to receive a diploma.

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Education with a major in Middle School Science, candidates will be recommended for 5-9 Educator Licensure in the state of Indiana. Candidates seeking licensure in states other than Indiana bear the responsibility to determine whether completion of the program will meet the academic and assessment requirements of the state in which licensure is sought.

Middle School Science (B.Ed.) - Program of Study

Foundational Course

GEN-111

Foundations of Lifelong Learning

Major Courses

BIO-122	Mammalian Biology with a Lab for Health Sciences	4
BIO-130	Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab for Health Sciences	4
CHE-130	Chemistry I with Lab for Health Sciences	4
EAR-130	Foundations of Earth Science	3
SCI-121	Enginerring Design	3
PHY-101	Physical Science of Everyday Phenomena	3
PHY-130	Physics I with Lab for Health Sciences	4
SCI-205	Meteorology and Environmental Impact for Aviators	3
EDUT-350	Designing Education: Empowering Diverse Adolescents for Growth	6
EDUT-410	Empowering Innovators: Dynamic Teaching for the Modern Classroom	6
EDUT-460	Blueprints for Belonging: Literacy-Rich and Inclusive Learning Environments	6
EDUT-495A	Building Bridges: Transformative Student Teaching	6
EDUT-495B	Building Bridges: Transformative Student Teaching	6
Total Credit Hours:		61