Advanced Certification in Physics and/or Physical Science K-12 Teaching

    Program Overview

    The Advanced Certification in Physics and/or Physical Science K-12 Teaching non-degree program provides a pathway for practicing teachers to earn an additional certification as a Teacher of Physics/Physical Sciences, a high need area both nationally and in the state of New Jersey. Candidates with as few as 6 earned credits in Physics/Physical Science, a Standard Certificate or Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing, and a minimum of two years of successful full-time teaching as a classroom teacher, may apply for this alternative pathway to science teaching.

    Students enrolled in the program will develop an advanced understanding of physics content and the pedagogical content knowledge necessary to teach physics and/or physical science by taking research-driven core courses, led by expert faculty. Students will develop content knowledge while learning how to employ research-based instructional methods that help students develop knowledge through engagement in the practices of science.

    While enrolled in this 30-credit program, candidates will be eligible to teach Physics/Physical Science under a Certificate of Eligibility (CE). Upon successful program completion, candidates will be recommended for a NJ Standard Instructional Certificate as a Teacher of Physics/Physical Sciences.

    For more information about this program:

    Program Details

    Application Deadline

    Aug 15 / Dec 15 / May 15 - Late applications will be considered.

    Entry Term(s)

    Fall / Spring / Summer

    Program Level

    Non-degree

    Program Type

    Certification

    Format

    On-campus

    Credits

    30

  • What You’ll Learn

    For more information about the courses in this program, please visit the course catalog and online schedule of classes.

  • Program Requirements
    • 30 Graduate Course Credits
      • 3 Credits – Development of Ideas in Physical Science
      • 3 Credits – Teaching and Assessment in Physical Science
      • 3 Credits – Demonstrations and Technology in Physics
      • 3 Credits – Multiple Representations in Physical Science
      • 3 Credits – Topics in Physics and Engineering Education
      • 3 Credits – Using Results of Physics Research in Your Classroom
      • 3 Credits – Space, Time, and Motion: Course for Educators
      • 3 Credits – The Solar System: Course for Educators
      • 6 Credits – Physics/Physical Science Electives

    Students are expected to maintain a “B” or better average as a non-degree student. Accepted students will have 5 years to complete the program. After completing all of the required courses in the program, students should contact the Office of Academic Services at the GSE to notify them and to secure an application for the state endorsement. GSE personnel will then forward the completed application to Trenton along with a recommendation that the certification be awarded.

    Additional Requirements for New Jersey Certification:

    New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 18A:37-22 requires that educators entering the workforce in the 2012 school year and beyond must have completed through their pre-service preparation (e.g., courses, practicum) a program on harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) prevention. The HIB prevention requirements apply to the following programs: (a) teachers and education services personnel certifications; and (b) administrative certifications, including chief school administrators, principals, and supervisors. Details on the required training can be found here.

  • Careers and Outcomes

    With a growing awareness for the importance of scientific inquiry and science, technology, engineering and math (STEAM) education programs, graduates exiting this program may go on to pursue employment as an education practitioner, consultant, curriculum specialist, or administrator in a range of education- and science-based settings. They may also go on to fulfill advisory and consulting roles in the government, environmental, and nonprofit sectors.

  • Admissions Requirements
    • A statement of program intent
    • Undergraduate transcripts
    • Verification of experience from the applicant’s current or previous supervisor or HR department, on school district letterhead, certifying the completion of two years of successful, full-time classroom teaching employment under an instructional certificate
    • Electronic copy of a New Jersey Standard Instructional Certificate or Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing in an area other than Biological Sciences

    Applicants are responsible for reviewing and confirming that they meet all requirements before the application is submitted. Rutgers Graduate School of Education will not refund the application fee if an applicant is not accepted.

  • How to Apply
    1. Collect the materials required for admission
    2. Submit your application online at http://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/
    3. Submit supporting materials online
    4. Any supporting materials that cannot be submitted electronically should be mailed to Graduate Admissions’ New Brunswick office. Their mailing address can be found here: https://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/about/contact-us
  • Tuition & Financial Assistance

    Tuition:

    For tuition and fees information please visit the tuition landing page.

    Financial Aid:

    While students are encouraged to apply for federal student aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), there are a number of other merit- and need-based support options, including loans and college work-study programs within and external to Rutgers. For more information, please visit the Office of Financial Aid website.

    Scholarships, Fellowships & Assistantships:

    Generous GSE alumni, friends, and community members have established and continue to donate to more than one dozen fellowships and scholarships to help deserving students reach their goals. These awards are granted on the basis of academic achievement and or financial need. While these awards are competitive, interested students are encouraged to apply for consideration and submit the required materials. Students must also submit a FAFSA application to be eligible.

    To review all current awards and learn more about the donors that established them, please click here.

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