Physical Science (Composite Teaching)

About This Degree

The physical science (composite teaching) major qualifies students to teach seventh and eighth grade integrated science and high school chemistry and physics.

Because they are qualified to teach both subjects, graduates of this major will be more marketable and sought after for teaching positions.

What You Will Learn

As they train to become chemistry teachers, students learn how to teach the basic chemical properties of elements and the chemical reactions that take place when different elements are combined, and how to properly write scientific equations.

Students also study physics and gain understanding of both the theory of physics and how to experiment using those theories as a guide. Physics teaching covers thermal physics, intermediate modern physics, wave phenomena, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics.

Education Component

In order to obtain a secondary teaching license for grades 6-12, students must complete the 35-credit Secondary Teacher Education Program (STEP), which includes one semester of student teaching in a public school. This program is administered by USU’s School of Teacher Education and Leadership (TEAL) within the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services. Student must apply to the School of TEAL the semester before taking STEP courses. This is usually the fall of their junior year. Students learn subject content through the Languages, Philosophy, and Speech Communication Department, and spend the last year or two studying education techniques through the STEP program.

Students in the physical science (composite teaching) program do not need to have a minor because the program provides students with knowledge in several subject areas, therefore, expanding their career options.

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At a Glance

College: College of Science

Department: Chemistry and Biochemistry Department , Physics Department

USU Locations:

Logan campus

Program Requirements

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Career And Outcomes

Career Opportunities

Students who graduate in physical science (composite teaching) are qualified to teach chemistry and physics in high schools, as well as teach integrated science in seventh and eighth grade.

Job Outlook

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Advising

We will build on your goals and experiences while working together to design an individualized semester-by-semester plan. Your personalized plan will help you see a path from where you are now on to graduation. Even if you are unsure of the major you would like to pursue, we can help with resources and ideas.

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USU Locations

LOGAN CAMPUS

Admission

Admission Requirements

In addition to Utah State University’s admissions requirements, the physical science (composite teaching) program has additional requirements:

Freshmen: New freshmen admitted to USU in good standing qualify for admission to this major.
Transfer students: Transfer students from other institutions need a 2.2 total GPA for admission to this major. Students transferring from other USU majors need a total GPA of 2.0 for admission to this major.
STEP Requirements: In order to be accepted into STEP, students must go through an application process, which includes the following:
- Complete 60 semester credits with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Complete certain core courses (see department for more information)
- Complete a speech and hearing test
- Pass the Teacher Education Writing Exam
- Provide an unofficial copy of your transcript
- Pass a criminal background check (this should be done one semester before submitting the application)