Teach students to understand the nature of the universe.

High school physics teachers help students learn how to solve problems and think critically using calculus and other forms of higher math that are integral to understanding the principles of physics. They help their students explore the complex interplay of mass, energy and gravity. Physics teachers must have a high level mastery of math and a deep understanding of scientific principles to communicate both to their students.

 

Program type:

Major, BSEd

Format:

On-Campus

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students in a science lab
Overview

Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education -

Physics Emphasis

The BS in Secondary Education, with an emphasis in Physics, prepares students to teach in secondary school settings, grades 9-12. This program requires the selection and completion of required coursework in physics and includes field and practicum experiences in high school settings, culminating in Missouri teacher certification.

This program coordinates with the Department of Physics where you’ll be exposed to research and teaching laboratories and a wide variety of modern research instrumentation. Much of the discipline-specific coursework parallels the BA or BS degree in Physics; however, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requires specific coursework for teacher certification.

Outcomes and Career Outlook

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to improve and enhance student learning; integrate technology to create meaningful student learning; create authentic and deep learning experiences; use learning science principles to design, implement and evaluate curriculum; foster effective working relationships; design and establish a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment; and use equitable frameworks and inclusive practices to create a variety of instructional and assessment opportunities adapted to diverse learners to encourage all students’ critical thinking, problem solving and performance skills.

Employment of high school teachers is projected to grow up to 4% to 2029, with a national median annual salary of $61,820, according to wage and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.



61,820

Median annual salary

4

Employment growth by 2029

Career Opportunities

  • Classroom Physics Teacher, High School
  • Lab Worker

 

Plan of study

All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements.

Review Full Degree Requirements

Non-Missouri Residents: Prospective students are responsible for reviewing the NC-SARA state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.

Student organizations

Make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of our Recognized Student Organizations. Here are several opportunities you may be interested in as a secondary education major:

  • EduCATE: Collegiate Association of Teachers and Educators
  • Physics and Astronomy Club
  • Kappa Delta Pi, Mu Iota Chapter
  • Student Government Association
  • Students of the University of Missouri

Internship opportunities

The College of Education hosts many centers and initiatives that enhance student experiences in our programs and work with more than 36 different public, private and charter schools throughout the region. We also sponsor eight charter schools.

Honors College

The UMSL Honors College is a certificate program that can be paired with any major without adding extra classes or extending time to graduate. Classes in the Honors College are seminar-style, meaning that they are based in reading, writing, discussion, and critical thinking. This unique class format fosters an intellectual climate centered around democracy, diversity, civility and academic excellence.

Undergraduate research

We encourage and support students as they engage in exciting activities in and outside of the classroom that enrich their academic and professional understanding of their chosen area of study. All majors are encouraged to participate in Undergraduate Research and Scholarship to produce discipline-specific intellectual or creative innovations to their field.