History, Comprehensive Social Studies, BSEd
The Social Studies Comprehensive (BSEd) program provides a well-rounded academic experience that focuses on geography, history, political science, and secondary education. The program prepares students to teach social studies in grades 7-12. Shippensburg University is a great place to study to become a social studies teacher because its secondary education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. It also has the only public elementary lab school in the state.
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What Will I Learn?
In this program, you will complete requirements for the history major while taking education courses required for certification. You will be guided by faculty members with teaching experience. You will walk away with deep knowledge of:
- United States history
- European history
- World history
You will also take courses in related departments such as political science, anthropology, geography, economics, psychology and sociology.
Meet Shawn Pokrop
“I think my major has prepared me in many different ways for my future. The biggest one is the experiences. The History Department really makes sure that you have some experience in the field.”What are the requirements for this degree?
A 3.0 GPA is required for this program. The requirements include the completion of specific social studies, general education and professional education courses. Where appropriate, these courses may also be used to fulfill general education categories.
What Types of Careers Could I Get With This Degree?
Students who complete their degrees will be certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to teach history, geography, civics, economics, sociology, anthropology and psychology in grades 7-12. Many students with this degree also go on to master's programs and beyond.
What Career Outcomes Do Alumni Have With This Degree?
What Kinds of Experiences Could I Have?
Shippensburg is an ideal place to study history because of the many historic sites and resources nearby including Gettysburg National Military Park, the United States Army Heritage and Educational Center, the Pennsylvania State Museum, Shippensburg Station and the Cumberland Valley Railroad Museum, and the Fashion Archives and Museum of Shippensburg University.
As you prepare to become a teacher, you will participate in hands-on learning experiences such as:
- Observation of classes in elementary, secondary and community college settings
- Observation of physically challenged and exceptional learners
- Student teaching placements
You can also join student education groups, the History Club and, if you qualify, Pi Alpha Theta, the National History Honor Society.