Chemistry Teacher Education B.S.
Provides preparation for professional work in chemistry or forensic science; graduate work in chemistry or forensic science; or pre-professional training in the health sciences or secondary education. Coupling the program with an appropriate minor prepares students to enter related fields such as biochemistry, oceanography, pharmacy, toxicology and the environmental or atmospheric sciences. Through the study of general, organic, analytical and physical chemistry, students gain an understanding of the world around them.
credits required for major
Program Details
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of major concepts, theoretical principles and experimental findings in chemistry.
- Employ critical thinking and quantitative analytical skills to solve problems and evaluate scientific data.
- Use and application of laboratory methods and scientific instrumentation to investigate a scientific hypothesis, conduct experiments, analyze data and interpret results.
- Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills including the ability to transmit complex scientific or technical information in a clear and concise manner.
- Gather, comprehend, apply and communicate credible information on scientific and technical topics and recognize the proper use of scientific data, principles and theories to assess the quality of stated conclusions.
- Demonstrate ethical awareness and conduct with regards to: (1) honesty in data reporting; (2) the safety of practitioners, test subjects and the local community/environment; and (3) their social responsibility to recognize the impact that our actions have on the natural and human world.
Courses
- BI 211 Principles of Biology: Cells and Genetics Credits: 4
- CH 221 General Chemistry Credits: 5
- CH 222 General Chemistry Credits: 5
- CH 223 General Chemistry Credits: 5
- CH 312 Analytical Chemistry Credits: 4
- CH 334 Organic Chemistry Credits: 4
- CH 335 Organic Chemistry Credits: 4
- CH 336 Organic Chemistry Credits: 4
- CH 350 Chemical Literature Credits: 1
- CH 409 Practicum Credits: 1-9 Credits: 1
- CH 440 Physical Chemistry I Credits: 4
- CH 450 Biochemistry I Credits: 4
- MTH 251 Calculus I Credits: 4
- MTH 252 Calculus II Credits: 4
- PH 201 General Physics Credits: 4
- PH 202 General Physics Credits: 4
- PH 203 General Physics Credits: 4
Choose One
or
- PH 211 General Physics with Calculus Credits: 4
- PH 212 General Physics with Calculus Credits: 4
- PH 213 General Physics with Calculus Credits: 4
Choose One
- CH 320 Introduction to Forensic Science Credits: 4
- CH 322 Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology Credits: 4
- CH 345 Introduction to Toxicology Credits: 3
PATRICIA FLATT
Department Head of Chemistry/Professor, Chemistry
flattp@wou.edu
FEIER HOU
Associate Professor, Chemistry
houf@wou.edu
KEITH SCHWARTZ
Assistant Professor, Chemistry
schwartzk@wou.edu
KELSIE YOUNCE
Research Assistant, Chemistry
youncek@wou.edu
Where This Degree Can Take You
A degree in Chemistry Teacher Education helps you learn how to teach chemistry in a way that is fun and easy to understand. You’ll develop skills in creating lesson plans, explaining complex ideas in simple terms, and performing chemistry experiments safely. This degree also helps you become a strong communicator and a good mentor, making science exciting for students. It’s about inspiring curiosity and a love for learning about the world around us through chemistry.
Potential Careers
- High School Chemistry Teacher
- Middle School Science Teacher
- Curriculum Developer
- Education Consultant
- Science Tutor
- Educational Content Writer
- Laboratory Coordinator
- STEM Program Coordinator
- Instructional Coach
- Professional Development Trainer
Potential Employers
- Salem-Keizer Public School District
- Oregon Department of Education
- Central Public School District
- Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
- Chemeketa Community College
- Beaverton School District
Consider This Degree If You…
Are Passionate About Teaching
The field emphasizes the importance of instructors who can engage and inspire students, fostering a love for learning in chemistry.
Have Patience with Learners
The education sector values educators who can accommodate different learning speeds, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to grasp challenging material.
Are Empathetic and Approachable
A focus on building positive relationships with students is essential, encouraging an environment where students feel comfortable seeking help and asking questions.
