Undergraduate Program

Thank you for your interest in our Undergraduate Science Teacher Education Program (U-STEP).

This program is specifically designed for potential candidate who want to obtain an initial teaching certificate/license in New York State.

The Undergraduate Science Teacher Education Program (U-STEP) prepares students with undergraduate majors in science to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree and to assume teaching positions in grades 7-12. The U-STEP program contains a minimum of 27 credits. The program of study is a combination of undergraduate level coursework in secondary education, science content, pedagogical science content knowledge, and clinical experiences at local area schools. The intent of the program is to prepare students who have a strong base of science content knowledge and solid pedagogical content knowledge based in research, theory, and practice.

The U-STEP is specifically registered with and approved by the State Education Department as an initial teacher preparation program. Candidates completing this program are eligible for “approved program” certification through the Queens College Teacher Certification Office located in Powdermaker Hall, Room 135.

Program Requirements: Candidates are expected to have completed the equivalent of an academic major in a science discipline (i.e., biology, chemistry, physics, or earth science) with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in your overall coursework and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in science studies. You must also demonstrate, through your work in prerequisite classes that you possess the temperament and appropriate dispositions to be an effective teacher. Candidates should be aware that many of the courses that are in the program require fieldwork in local schools in addition to class time on campus.

For information on our NOYCE SciTech Scholarship Program, please click on the following link: NOYCE SciTech

Please Note: Since education is a professional program subject to requirements from the New York State Department of Education as well as the accrediting agency, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), there are frequent changes to the teacher education programs in SEYS. Programs are updated more frequently than the college bulletin and handbook, therefore up-to-date program information available in the SEYS Department will over-ride information that may differ from that in college bulletin and or handbook.

NOTE: Fingerprinting is required by the New York City Department of Education (for student teaching and employment) and by the New York State Department of Education (for certification purposes). Please be sure both systems have your fingerprints on file.

Attached below is a program of study that should provide additional clarity to your inquiry.