If you have a calling to teach and a passion for the sciences, UMW’s interdisciplinary science major will help you prepare for a career in science education. In combination with your education course work, you’ll gain broad exposure to all the sciences and in-depth knowledge of a specific science field of your choice. You’ll leave with a solid foundation to be an elementary science teacher or an educator for museums, nature centers, or zoos.
Degree Awarded
Students majoring in Interdisciplinary Science Studies who complete all requirements earn the degree of Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in General Liberal Arts and Studies.
Areas of Study
Required introductory courses include environmental science, geology, global environmental problems, field methods, oceanography, energy resources and technology, quantitative reasoning, engineering and the design process, and a field project in STEM education. You’ll also take UMW’s popular and useful digital storytelling class.
Internships
The College of Education keeps a list of local tutoring opportunities, internships, and paid positions for which students may qualify. In addition, UMW education students have opportunities for laboratory-based experiences, practicums, and teaching internships in local public schools.
Honors
Students with high academic achievement are invited to become members of the Nu Xi Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, an international honor society in education. Awards are given each year to students who excel in supervised teaching, academic achievement, and leadership.
Requirements
Interdisciplinary science studies majors must earn 21 credits in Earth and environmental sciences and another 11 or 12 credits in their chosen science area such as biology, chemistry, physics, geology, or computer science. Also required are courses in mathematics, engineering and design, a STEM capstone project, and digital storytelling. Majors will complete education course work required for students enrolled in the five-year Master of Science in Elementary Education program.