Chemistry (B.A.) with Secondary Teaching Certification

Program Overview

With many sciences such as ecology, medicine, material science, and food science turning increasingly to chemistry for explanations and understanding of their disciplines, an undergraduate major in chemistry is good preparation for a variety of careers. The Chemistry Major curriculum includes courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, chemical analysis, physical, and inorganic chemistry, and offers a variety of electives making it possible to tailor the program to the individual’s interests and needs. Students not only learn the theory of instrumentation used in chemical research, but have hands-on experiences in the laboratory in which they become familiar with these techniques.

This experience allows graduates to be quite competitive for jobs in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, environmental and forensic science labs, as well as government laboratories. This major is well suited for students planning to attend graduate school in any area of chemistry, or pursue a career in medical school or another allied health profession.

For students interested in teaching chemistry in grades seven to twelve, the chemistry secondary teaching curriculum should be followed. Upon successful completion of this program and a 12-week student teaching experience, students receive certification by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Chemistry program can:

1. Describe the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry.
2. Apply fundamental and advanced principles across multiple areas of chemistry.
3. Work accurately and safety in the laboratory.
4. Demonstrate advanced lab knowledge and skills.
5. Identify and response appropriately to chemical safety issues.
6. Demonstrate research and communication skills needed in the discipline.
7. Identify ways careers in chemistry connect with God’s vocational call.
8. Demonstrate the integration of faith and science.

Additionally, students who complete the Chemistry with Teaching certification demonstrate:

1. Christian faith and values in personal and professional life.
2. Professional attitudes that reflect an understanding of schools and a commitment to teaching.
3. Subject matter depth and an understanding of the relationships between and among curricular areas.
4. Theoretical knowledge of learning and related instructional practices that support learning.
5. Empirical inquiry skills such as observation, hypothesis-testing, data collection, and data analysis.
6. Acquisition, analysis, evaluation, and integration of new knowledge throughout professional practice.
7. Appropriate professional responses to the roles and responsibilities of individuals and organizations (e.g., teachers, students, families, school districts, communities) associated with educational environments.
8. Professional communication (speaking, writing, listening) and technology skills.
9. Reflective decision-making and problem-solving skills.
10. Instructional planning and assessment skills that facilitate equitable participation, an accepting and supportive learning environment, and maximum development for all learners.

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Three credits from the following:

Professional Semester:

QuEST Requirements

*Approved Chemistry electives include any Chemistry course at the 200-level or above, excluding CHEM 391.

**THEO 223 required to waive the Non-western requirement.