Physics

Physics Education

Many of Elmhurst’s physics majors enter the teaching profession, and with good reason; science teachers are in extremely high demand. At Elmhurst, we’ve  created an integrated major program specially designed to train future physics teachers. Students who select this major course of study are advised by faculty in both the Department of Education and the Department of Physics to ensure their success both as physicists and as educators.

If you’re seeking certification for secondary teaching, you’ll complete the physics major requirements  as well as additional courses in education and related areas including at least one course in chemistry and one in biology. You should identify yourself to both the physics and education departments.

The education department requires that all students complete a standards-based portfolio. Secondary science majors are required to complete additional science-based standards in the portfolio, which are partially fulfilled by taking the following portfolio course: 

EDU 370 Portfolio Synthesis Seminar (quarter course) Focus: Earth Science, Astronomy and Space Sciences (may be repeated)

Students are required to pass the Illinois Basic Skills Test to be admitted to a certification program, the appropriate contact area test prior to the student teaching semester, and the APT (Assessment of Professional Training) test prior to program completion.