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Graduate Certificate in Physics Education (Teacher Licensure)

The Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development offers a Graduate Certificate program for qualified post-baccalaureate students who are interested in receiving Initial Licensure in Physics Grades 8–12. Students who are successful in completing this program will develop the knowledge and skills necessary as a beginning teacher of Physics Grades 8–12. Specifically, the learning outcomes are as follows:

Demonstrate advanced pedagogical content knowledge to earn initial grade level licensure in physics.

Plan effective curriculum by designing evidence-based units and lesson plans that support students of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, strengths, and challenges using principles of differentiation and universal design.

Identify and practice a variety of research-based teaching methods and strategies associated with effective science education that promote inquiry and scientific ways of thinking and knowing.

Integrate the three dimensions of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in theory and practice such that students in their classes are actively involved in learning opportunities that facilitate (1) understanding of science concepts, (2) student identities as learners of science, and (3) appreciation of scientific practices and crosscutting concepts.

Collect and apply evidence to accurately assess student performance.

Demonstrate classroom leadership through the establishment of a classroom culture that facilitates teaching, learning, and collaboration through implementation of research-based practices that build effective relationships with students.

Demonstrate professionalism in interactions with colleagues, students, and families.

For those students successful in completing all the courses and practicum in this certificate program, the Wheelock College of Education & Human Development provides an endorsement for licensure to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Office of Educator Licensure. Students must also apply directly to the DESE and are required to take additional tests (Massachusetts Test for Educational Licensures [MTELs]) to secure licenses.

Requirements for licensure as a teacher of Physics Grades 8–12 are listed below. Please note, prior coursework may be submitted for review to determine equivalency. If determined to be equivalent, required courses listed may be waived as a part of the certificate program.

Total Units: 26–28

WED CT 534 Classroom Management (2 units)

WED DS 502 Adolescent Development (2 units)

WED SC 510 Practicum (Student Teaching) with seminar (8 units)

WED SC 570 Science Methods (4 units)

WED SC 575 Foundations in Science Education (2 units or 4 units with field experience)

WED SC 576 Pre-Practicum (2 units)

WED SE 510 Special Education (2 units)

WED TL 525 Sheltered English Immersion (4 units)