Secondary Social Studies Education (Grades 7-12)
The mission of the secondary Social Studies program is to prepare professionals who understand that pedagogical choices grow from a deep understanding of the disciplinary knowledge for each area of the social studies they are allowed to teach in relation to a consideration of the unique needs of learners being taught. That consideration honors the diverse nature of students in the classroom and grows from an understanding of the community being served.
Starting with this pedagogical content knowledge, candidates construct standards based plans that are grounded in a study of best practice as defined by research, models of excellence in the field, and creative contemplation. Such construction forms the foundation of a practice pushed forward by reflection thoughtful revision, and dialogue with other professionals. Candidates understand that this practice grows throughout one's career.
Professional Education Courses Required for Certification
Recommended for Freshman Year, Spring
- EDUC 100.2 Intro. to the Education of English Language Learners
- EDUC 160 Culture, Community & Diversity: Intro. to Critical Pedagogy (40-hour Stage 1&2 Field Experience/ fulfills M3)
Recommended for Sophomore Year
- EDUC 230 Student Development & Instructional Design (40-hour Stage 1&2 Field Experience)
- EDUC 244 Including Students with Disabilities (Spring)
- EDUC 140.2 Computer Technology in the Classroom
Recommended for Junior Year
- EDUC 340 Reflective Teaching (Fall only; 40-hour Stage 3 Field Experience)
Recommended for Senior Year
- EDUC 365 Curriculum & Instruction in Social Studies (Fall only; 110-hour Stage 3 Field Exp.)
- EDUC 375-7 Student Teaching
- EDUC 378 Seminar in Secondary Student Teaching
Historical Studies Major Requirements for Certification in Social Studies
- HIST 112 Western Civilization since 1500 OR
- HIST 140 Medieval Europe
- HIST 113 The United States to 1877 OR
- HIST 114 The United States Since 1865
- HIST 270 Historical Methods & Interpretations
- One 100-level history course from an area outside Europe or the U.S.
- Two additional 200-level history courses
- Two additional 300-level history courses
- POSC 110 American National Government
- POSC 115 International Politics OR
- POSC 125 Introduction to Comparative Politics OR
- POSC ___ Political Science international topic
- IDIS 110 World Geography
- ECON 152 Principles of Economics
- SOC 115 Introductory Sociology
- PSYC 120 Introduction to Psychology
NOTE: Selections for the 4 courses at the 200 and 300 level should include at least one course each in United States history, European history, and history of an area outside Europe and the United States. Students eligible to waive one or more introductory courses may substitute an additional history course or courses numbered 200 or above. Students are encouraged to take more courses in history to better prepare for teaching.
Completing a Full Major in History
With careful planning and some summer coursework, students can complete the requirements for citizenship education certification while completing a full departmental major in history. A major in history would allow increased facility in teaching the content as well as improved marketability.
Content Area Tests - required prior to certification
5081 Social Studies: Content Knowledge
Test scores should be reported to Moravian University (RA2418) and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Program Coordinators
Dr. Sandra Aguilar-Rodriguez
History Department Chair
aguilar-rodriguezs@moravian.edu
Dr. Edward Nolan
Director of Middle and Secondary Education
nolane@moravian.edu