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The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences: Certificates:
Graduate Certificate in Science, Grades K-8 (Quarter)

For students beginning their program August 26, 2024 or later

The Graduate Certificate in Science, Grades K–8 strengthens educators’ understanding of key science concepts and prepares them to transfer that knowledge to the K–8 classroom. Educators explore the nature and history of science, environmental science, physical phenomena, ecology, and earth science. Throughout these courses, educators engage actively in the scientific process, learning how to apply the tools of scientific inquiry, discovery, and hypothesis to deepen their own understanding and create engaging K–8 learning experiences. Educators consider emerging trends and issues in science and science education, including genetic engineering, biotechnologies, climate change, and the demand for increased science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) instruction. Credits earned from this certificate program may be applied toward Walden’s MS in Education with a specialization in Science (Grades K–8).

Note on Endorsement, Licensure, or Certification

This program does not lead to an endorsement, certification, or licensure. Walden makes no representation, warranty, guarantee, or commitment that successful completion of this program or coursework for graduate credit within this program will permit a graduate to obtain state certification or licensure.

The graduate degree program and coursework within the program in which you are enrolling may be accepted by many states toward upgrading or renewing a license or obtaining a salary increase (depending on state or district policy). Teachers are advised to contact their individual school districts as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement. Walden enrollment specialists can provide guidance on program requirements; however, it remains the individual’s responsibility to understand and comply with all state and school district requirements.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this certificate program will be prepared to:

  • Analyze the major concepts, principles, theories, laws, and interrelationships of biology and supporting fields.
  • Analyze the major concepts, principles, theories, laws, and interrelationships of earth and space science and supporting fields.
  • Analyze the major concepts, principles, theories, laws, and interrelationships of the physical world and supporting fields.
  • Synthesize how teaching the future of science contributes to each of the fields of science.

Certificate Requirements

  • 25 total quarter credits

Curriculum

  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.

Course Sequence

The recommended course sequence is as follows:

Quarter Course Credits
Quarter 1 SCIE 6760 - The Nature of Science 5 quarter credits
SCIE 6761 - Exploring the Physical World 5 quarter credits
Quarter 2 SCIE 6762 - Investigating the Living World 5 quarter credits
SCIE 6763 - Exploring the Earth and Beyond 5 quarter credits
Quarter 3 SCIE 6764 - Looking Into the Future of Science and Education 5 quarter credits