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Explore the teaching - science, physics emphasis bachelor's degree program at UW-Eau Claire

Combine your passions for science, physics and education with a bachelor's degree in teaching - science, physics emphasis from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Rooted in exploration, experimentation and discovery, our renowned physics teaching program includes opportunities to use state-of-the-art instrumentation, conduct research alongside faculty and hear from experts in the field — all while learning how to best teach science classes, especially physics, to grades 4-12.

Through projects, labs and fieldwork, you'll gain the knowledge, tools and techniques needed to develop curious, successful students. The opportunity to assist teachers in their classrooms throughout your four years — as well as student teach for a full semester — will help you to build your leadership skills, identify your preferred teaching style and discover how to best meet the needs of your learners. 

Graduates leave ready to teach science — and inspire others. Your future students could have a hand in developing methods and tools that diagnose and cure disease, managing traffic flow in large cities, predicting geological phenomena such as earthquakes or developing cleaner fuels for automobiles. When you combine physics research, laboratory experiments and a UW-Eau Claire teaching certification, you graduate with a promising future. And you'll help future generations do the same.

Why teaching - science, physics emphasis at UW-Eau Claire?

Innovative facilities and equipment. While at UWEC, you'll have direct access to outstanding academic facilities, such as an optics research lab, the Materials Science and Engineering Center, an electron microscopy lab, an electronics lab, a machine shop and the Hobbs Observatory. There, you can use state-of-the-art technology such as a 24-inch reflecting telescope, an atomic force microscope, a scanning tunneling electron microscope and an X-ray diffractometer.

Collaborative research opportunities. The physics and astronomy department at UW-Eau Claire offers countless opportunities to learn beyond the classroom, including the chance to conduct groundbreaking research. Alongside dedicated faculty members, your work could lead to publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at regional or national conferences.

Connection to local employers. To help you explore career opportunities and make valuable connections, we host an annual Education Job Fair, an on-campus career fair specific for those looking to enter the field of education. This event is an excellent opportunity to make connections and submit your resume for current and future job openings.

Cultural immersion and service-learning opportunities. Many education majors choose to enhance their education by engaging in cultural immersions. You may student teach in Kenai, Alaska or participate in the Civil Rights Pilgrimage. These experiences often lead to new ways of thinking and a better understanding of the students in your future classrooms.

Excellent preparation in a supportive environment. Through observations, teacher assisting and a full semester of student teaching in your own classroom, you'll work toward building your resume — and your skillset. Alongside physics experts and exceptional teachers, you'll learn best practices in leading a successful classroom. You'll also work collaboratively with peers who, like you, are interested in science and helping educate the next generation.  

100% employed

or continuing education after graduation

2021-2022 Graduate Report

Quick facts

Teaching - science, physics emphasis program details
  • Program length: four years
  • Offered: in person
  • Campus: Eau Claire
  • This major does not require a minor.
  • Students majoring in this program will earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. 
Student organizations
  • Society of Physics Students
  • Women & Gender Minorities in STEM
  • Aspiring Educators
  • Sigma Pi Sigma

Licensure information

Completion of teacher preparation programs at UW-Eau Claire meets licensure requirements in Wisconsin. Our programs may not meet requirements in other states. It is very important that individuals seeking licensure in another state obtain the most recent certification/licensure information directly from the state in which they seek employment. Find contact information on each state licensure office here.

Licensure requirements can change at any time. UW-Eau Claire’s Teacher Education Program Office ensures that our programs meet the requirements for licensure in Wisconsin. If you seek licensure in another state, be aware that their requirements could change at any time.

The United States Department of Education requires institutions to disclose information for programs leading to professional certification or licensure concerning whether each program meets state educational requirements for initial licensure or certification. Please note:

  1. Obtaining a Wisconsin Teaching License PRIOR to applying for a teaching license in another state is usually helpful and strongly recommended.
  2. "Meets requirements" means that a student is eligible for a license with stipulations, typically for 1-3 years, in that state. The stipulations are likely to be specific testing requirements and/or competency through a course or examination. In some instances, additional stipulations might be added.
  3. Licensure grade levels vary from state to state. Students who are eligible for a specific grade range in Wisconsin may be licensed for a narrower grade range in another state. Each state determines grade ranges for licensing differently.
  4. State licensure requirements may change at any time. Licensure questions should be referred to the Teacher Education Program Office (tep@uwec.edu).

The requirements of this program meet licensure in the following states: Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Texas

The requirements of this program do not meet licensure in the following states: Not Applicable

It has not been determined whether the requirements of this program meet licensure in the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wyoming, District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands

What can I do with a teaching - science, physics emphasis degree from UWEC?

Graduates of the teaching - science, physics emphasis bachelor's degree program leave well prepared to ignite the curiosity of young people and ready to explore some of the deepest questions of the universe. Upon completion of the program, you will be certified to teach any science course in grades 4-12 in a regular education setting, including biology, chemistry, earth/space science and general science. You will also have special expertise and in-depth knowledge of physics specifically. 

Where are teaching - science, physics emphasis alumni now?

Teaching - science, physics emphasis bachelor’s degree program curriculum

With a teaching - science, physics emphasis bachelor's degree, you will become a confident instructor with the tools to teach science to a variety of ages. In addition to a rigorous curriculum, a semester of student teaching provides real-world learning and opportunities to make valuable professional connections.

What classes do teaching - science, physics emphasis majors take?

Your classes may cover topics like: 

Learn more about the teaching - science, physics emphasis major in the UWEC course catalog.

Learn more about UWEC

We'll send you additional information about our campus and programs after you submit this form. You'll also have the chance to tell us more about yourself and your interests.

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Related programs at UW-Eau Claire

Thinking about a bachelor’s degree in physics education? Here are a few other programs you might be interested in exploring.

Department information

Multiple departments support this program. Learn more about them!

Photo of students walking in front of Centennial Hall

Education for Equity and Justice

Centennial Hall 3215
1698 Park Avenue
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Visit the Education for Equity and Justice department website
Physics Classroom

Physics and Astronomy

Phillips Science Hall 230
101 Roosevelt Avenue
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Visit the Physics and Astronomy department website