Bachelor of Applied Science Teaching Earth & Space Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Minnesota Duluth

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Teaching Earth and Space Science at the University of Minnesota Duluth is intended for students interested in combining scientific knowledge with the skills needed to teach Earth and space science. The program aligns with interests in geology, astronomy, Earth systems, and science education, preparing students to communicate scientific concepts, develop engaging lessons, and support students' understanding of the natural world.

Curriculum Structure:

First Year: Students build a foundation in scientific reasoning, mathematics, and general education while developing an understanding of the physical world. Introductory coursework in Earth science, astronomy, and related scientific disciplines can provide a basis for further study; however, the university's verified year-by-year course sequence for this exact degree has not been established here.

Second Year: Students progress into more specialized scientific study, developing knowledge of Earth materials, geological processes, and the physical principles that explain the universe. Related studies may include geology, physical science, and astronomy, alongside educational foundations where required by the approved degree plan.

Third Year: Students deepen their subject knowledge while developing the instructional skills needed to communicate scientific ideas to learners. Relevant areas include Earth systems, space science, scientific investigation, and science teaching methods; the exact course titles and placement within this year require confirmation from the university's current catalog.

Fourth Year: Students complete advanced coursework and any required professional preparation or field experiences associated with their approved program. Practical teaching preparation, lesson design, and the communication of scientific concepts are important to a teaching-focused pathway, but the exact student-teaching and licensure requirements for this named degree must be verified before they are presented as confirmed program requirements.

Focus Areas: Earth science, space science, geology, astronomy, physical science, scientific inquiry, science communication, instructional planning, science education.

Learning Outcomes: Explain Earth and space science concepts, interpret scientific evidence, understand geological and astronomical processes, communicate scientific information, develop engaging learning activities, support scientific reasoning, and apply appropriate instructional approaches.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The degree title alone does not establish eligibility for Minnesota teacher licensure or confirm program-specific accreditation. Students should verify the current degree requirements and applicable science-teacher licensure pathway with the university before relying on this program for professional certification.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Minnesota Duluth offers undergraduate education across scientific and professional disciplines. No verified program-specific QS, Guardian, or graduate-employment ranking is stated here.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The University of Minnesota Duluth provides hands-on learning opportunities through field experiences, supervised student teaching, and undergraduate research. Students learn to connect Earth and space science concepts with real-world environments, helping them develop the practical skills needed to teach science in classrooms and outdoor educational settings. The program also offers an optional Environmental Education emphasis, which can prepare students to connect science learning with parks, nature centers, and outdoor education programs.

Practical Learning Opportunities:

Field Experiences: Gain experience in diverse school settings and apply science-teaching methods in practical educational environments.
Student Teaching: Develop classroom teaching skills under supervision, including lesson planning, instructional delivery, and assessment.
Undergraduate Research: Explore research opportunities that strengthen scientific investigation, evidence-based reasoning, and analytical skills.
Earth and Environmental Sciences: Learn through the collaboration between the Department of Education and the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences.
Environmental Education: Choose the optional emphasis to explore teaching in formal school settings and non-formal settings such as parks and nature centers.
Educational Technology: Develop skills in using educational technology to support science instruction and student learning.
Community Collaboration: Learn to collaborate with families, colleagues, and support staff to create effective learning environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers teaching science in middle and high schools, with preparation for Minnesota licensure in General Science for grades 5–8 and Earth and Space Science for grades 9–12. Those interested in environmental education can also explore educational roles in nature centers, parks, museums, and outdoor learning organizations.

Typical Career Opportunities:

Middle School Science Teacher: Teach general science and help students understand scientific concepts through inquiry-based activities.
High School Earth and Space Science Teacher: Teach topics related to geology, Earth systems, astronomy, and space science.
Environmental Educator: Deliver educational programs in nature centers, parks, and outdoor learning organizations.
Museum or Nature Center Educator: Develop and deliver science learning activities for school groups and the public.

University Career and Employment Support:

Career Planning Services: The university's Career Center provides career resources and post-graduation information to help students explore employment opportunities.
School-Based Experience: Field placements and student teaching help students develop practical teaching skills and prepare for professional employment.
Graduate Employment Examples: Recent graduates have worked for Duluth Public Schools ISD 709, District 196, Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, and YMCA of the Rockies.
Employment and Salary Information: The university reports an average starting salary of approximately $43,000 on its program page. Its program-specific graduate survey reports an average first-year salary of $43,677, based on salary data compiled across secondary education teaching majors rather than exclusively Earth and Space Science graduates.
Professional Licensure: The program prepares eligible graduates for Minnesota teaching licensure in Earth and Space Science (grades 9–12) and General Science (grades 5–8), subject to applicable requirements.
Environmental Education Opportunities: Students who complete the optional emphasis can explore careers involving outdoor learning, environmental interpretation, and public science education.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue a master's degree in science education, environmental education, curriculum and instruction, or a related field. With additional qualifications and experience, they may progress toward educational leadership positions such as principal or curriculum coordinator, or pursue further study in science education research.