Early Childhood Education Program

Students in our programs are taught by faculty who spend as much time in classrooms and early learning spaces as they do in the seminar rooms of the college. The exceptional level of supervised support allows students to connect theory and research with real-world practices. Through a series of carefully planned field experiences across the programs of study, we prepare early childhood professionals and teachers of prekindergarten through third grade for diverse and inclusive settings, equipped to support and advocate for all children, families, and communities. Opportunities for undergraduate research at our UNF Preschool, service learning, and international travel to study whole child-centered pedagogies result in transformational learning experiences for our students. As a result, our graduates are sought-after educators and reflective practitioners, with the skills and knowledge base to successfully teach and advocate for all children and families across races, languages, and abilities.

Early Childhood Development Concentration

The Early Childhood Development concentration is an online non-licensure program of study that leads to a bachelor's degree. Graduates are prepared for careers in early childhood in a variety of professions including preschools, Early Head Start and Head Start, child life specialist, preschool directors, learning coaches and child advocates. The program is also suitable for students who plan to work toward advanced degrees in careers working with young children. The final practicum can be done in a variety of settings. Students currently working in an early childhood or educational setting can complete their practicum at their work site. Graduates of this program may opt to complete coursework to meet the alternative teacher certification requirements for Florida’s Prekindergarten Primary teaching credentials. 

Early Childhood Development Osprey Map (Course Sequence Guide)

Prekindergarten/Primary Licensure Concentration

The Prekindergarten Primary Licensure concentration leads to State of Florida certification in Prekindergarten Primary (age 3 through grade 3) with a TESOL endorsement. The concentration includes field work and a final semester-long internship in a school setting. Students are required to pass the state certification exams prior to the completion of their final internships. Graduates of this concentration are well-equipped for teaching in public or private schools. This program is accredited by the Florida Department of Education and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Prek-Primary Licensure Osprey Map (Course Sequence Guide)

Elementary Education (K-6) Program

Program Overview

The Elementary Education program prepares teachers who can respond creatively to the needs of students from diverse backgrounds in the process of promoting their learning. The goals of the program enable pre-service teachers to demonstrate research-based pedagogical approaches, to expand their content knowledge in order to help students meet the challenges of the 21st century, to use educational technologies thoughtfully, to value democratic public education, and to appreciate the key role of critical thinking in all aspects of schooling. Faculty view the professional work of program graduates as part of their efforts in supporting reform initiatives in local public schools.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria:

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs.

Notes

• Professional Ed and Subject Area exams passing scores are required prior to graduation. Passing ALL FTCE (General Knowledge, Professional Education, and Subject Area Exams) is required for graduation.
• Some courses may be offered once a year, be sure to consult the course schedule each semester.
• Know the prerequisites to courses on the degree audit.
• A minimum of 48 hours at the 3000-4000 level must be satisfied to graduate.
• Grade of C or better required for all courses on program of study.
• 2.5 UNF GPA is required to be eligible for internship and graduation.
• Background check and fingerprinting is required for all education majors.

Biology Education (6-12) Program

Program Overview

The National Science Education Standards and the Florida Science Curriculum Framework and Sunshine State Standards promote the importance of an inquiry orientation in science teaching. The Biology Education program supports less "coverage" of material and increased depth of understanding, appropriate use of instructional technology, and use of strategies to promote meaningful learning by all students. The science education programs emphasize a sound background in the instructional processes that help future teachers to justify and modify what they do in the classroom. In accordance with the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) recommendations, they give teachers of each content area a general science background, as well as a specialized content emphasis.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria. You must submit passing scores on all four parts of the FTCE General Knowledge exam for admission into the College of Education and Human Services.

Notes

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs.

Chemistry Education (6-12) Program

Program Overview

The National Science Education Standards and the Florida Science Curriculum Framework and Sunshine State Standards promote the importance of an inquiry orientation in science teaching. The Chemistry Education program supports less "coverage" of material and increased depth of understanding, appropriate use of instructional technology, and use of strategies to promote meaningful learning by all students. The science education programs emphasize a sound background in the instructional processes that help future teachers to justify and modify what they do in the classroom. In accordance with the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) recommendations, they give teachers of each content area a general science background, as well as a specialized content emphasis.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria.

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs.

English Education (6-12) Program

Program Overview

The English Education program strives to prepare teacher candidates to become practitioners in diverse and dynamic school settings. The skills and knowledge required for these candidates to function effectively in such an environment include both subject matter content and teaching strategies. The first is acquired primarily through coursework completed in the College of Arts and Sciences; the second is incorporated into the education component of the program. Congruent with professional standards and expectations, this program requires that graduates demonstrate knowledge of a broad range of language skills which include: understanding of the history and structure of English; familiarity with a range of literary genres, styles, and devices, as well as selections representing the cultural diversity of our world; the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; awareness of the many purposes for which one uses speaking, writing, reading, and listening; and an appreciation of the impact of nonverbal communication modes on our culture.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet ;University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria.

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs.

Mathematics Education (6-12) Program

Program Overview

The Mathematics Education program is designed for the preparation of mathematics teachers who can effectively design instruction, implementation, and assessment of mathematical concepts, principles, and skills that have been identified by national and state educational bodies as fundamental mathematical standards. The goals, objectives, and experiences incorporated into the program reflect the current state of professional knowledge and recommended practices deduced from professional literature and experience. The Mathematics Education program includes the philosophical, historical, and psychological foundations; a sequence of generic courses in preparation for teaching; and additional content courses. The final experiences allow for synthesis of the program's fabric and the emergence of a highly trained, knowledgeable, and proactive individual who is inspired to learn and teach mathematics.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria.

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs.

Middle School Education: Mathematics/Science Program

Program Overview

The Middle School Mathematics/Science Education program is designed to prepare teachers to teach middle school students in two content areas. The track is intended for undergraduate students who wish to teach middle level mathematics and science. This model of two certification areas conforms to the certification patterns recommended by the National Middle School Association. The Middle School program provides preservice teachers with an appropriate knowledge base and needed experiences in curriculum, instruction, and evaluation of ten- to fourteen-year-old students. The program is particularly aimed at helping provide qualified entry-level teachers for area middle/junior high schools. Those who take the Mathematics/Science track will be prepared to teach mathematics/science in the middle grades. Studying many of the college-level mathematics courses will not only strengthen these future teachers understanding and ability to do mathematics but will also improve their knowledge of science. Much of what these future teachers study in college-level science courses will also broaden their knowledge of concepts and applications of mathematics.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria.

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs.

Physics Education (6-12) Program

Program Overview

The National Science Education Standards and the Florida Science Curriculum Framework and Sunshine State Standards promote the importance of an inquiry orientation in science teaching. The Physics Education program supports less "coverage" of material and increased depth of understanding, appropriate use of instructional technology, and use of strategies to promote meaningful learning by all students. The science education programs emphasize a sound background in the instructional processes that help future teachers to justify and modify what they do in the classroom. In accordance with the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) recommendations, they give teachers of each content area a general science background, as well as a specialized content emphasis.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria. You must submit passing scores on all four parts of the FTCE General Knowledge exam for admission into the College of Education and Human Services.

Notes

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs. 

Social Studies Education (6-12) Program

Program Overview

The Secondary Social Science Education program is designed to prepare teachers of social studies, history, economics, government, sociology, and/or psychology in grades 6 - 12. It is designed to build upon a two-year program completed in liberal arts containing beginning-level coursework in the social sciences and history.

It includes:

1. The completion of a set of program prerequisites;
2. A professional core of courses that provide the social, philosophical, historical and philosophical foundations of social science education;
3. A sequence of generic courses in preparation for teaching; and
4. Additional content courses.

The culminating experience in the program is participation in a series of apprentice-like teaching experiences: two pre-internships and a semester-long internship, which allow for a synthesis of the program's coursework and the emergence of a highly trained secondary social science teacher who can effectively disseminate knowledge and skills in stimulating ways and encourage competent and responsible citizen participation. The goals, objectives, and experiences incorporated into the program reflect the current state of professional knowledge in the field at the state and national level.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services (COEHS) must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria. Students who have not satisfactorily completed 60 semester hours of college credit but meet University admissions standards are admitted as Lower Division students (freshmen or sophomores). Students who have completed 60 semester hours or more of college credit and meet COEHS admissions criteria are admitted directly into the COEHS as Upper Division students (juniors or seniors). Listed below are the criteria for admission into the College of Education and Human Services at the upper division:

• Satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of credit from UNF or other regionally accredited institution(s). An Associate in Arts Degree (AA) from one of Florida's public community/state colleges or SUS schools satisfies General Education and Gordon Rule requirements.
• A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 or better in all college level course work.
• Passing scores (no exemptions) on all four parts of the Florida General Knowledge (GK) Test. Transferring students, students changing majors, or students who have not presented passing scores on all four parts of the GK exam will not be permitted to enroll in any upper level education courses until they have been admitted into COEHS Teacher Preparation Programs.