Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Teacher Education)

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

The Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program at Fort Hays State University offers students a comprehensive foundation in chemistry, complemented by a well-rounded liberal arts education. With a focus on scientific knowledge and professional skills, this program prepares students for careers in science education or as chemical librarian and/or related fields. It includes coursework in chemistry alongside humanities, social sciences, and free electives, making it ideal for those interested in teaching chemistry or science at the elementary, middle, or high school levels.

Beyond core chemistry courses, the program provides specialized training in pedagogy, equipping students with the teaching skills needed to engage and inspire future generations effectively. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in education or further studies in chemistry or teaching, blending strong scientific expertise with a deep understanding of educational practices.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Teacher Education) at Fort Hays State University?

Pursuing a B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) at FHSU provides students with a strong foundation in chemistry and education, preparing them for a rewarding career in science teaching or as chemical librarians. The program integrates a comprehensive chemistry curriculum with a well-rounded liberal arts education, including humanities, social sciences, and free electives. This combination ensures that students are well-versed in scientific principles and equipped with the versatility and professional skills needed for teaching chemistry or science at the elementary, middle, or high school levels.

Instructors at FHSU design the program to offer personalized academic advising, helping students tailor their education to meet their specific career goals in science education. The program goes beyond core chemistry courses by incorporating specialized pedagogy training, equipping students with the teaching skills needed to engage and inspire future generations effectively. With an emphasis on practical experience and soft skills development, graduates are prepared for careers in education or further studies in chemistry or teaching, blending scientific expertise with a deep understanding of educational practices.

Who is this program for?

Our B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program is designed for students passionate about chemistry and education, preparing them for careers in science teaching or as chemical librarians. Ideal for those who want to teach chemistry at the elementary, middle, or high school levels, the program combines a strong chemistry foundation with a well-rounded liberal arts education and offers flexibility through various electives.

Students aspiring to become chemistry or science educators at the elementary, middle, or high school levels
Those interested in combining a strong foundation in chemistry with a well-rounded liberal arts education
Students seeking specialized training in pedagogy to develop effective teaching skills
Those preparing for careers as chemical librarians or in other science-related educational roles
Students looking to gain practical, hands-on laboratory experience

Learning Outcomes

The B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program at Fort Hays State University prepares graduates with a comprehensive understanding of chemistry and the practical teaching skills needed for success in education or chemical librarianship. Through a blend of rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory training, and specialized pedagogy, students will achieve the following learning outcomes:

Comprehensive Knowledge of Chemistry

Graduates will deeply understand analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry theory and practice. This broad knowledge base prepares students for careers in science education or chemical librarianship, equipping them with the expertise needed to effectively teach or manage information in the chemical sciences.

Advanced Laboratory Skills and Safety Proficiency

Students will develop advanced laboratory techniques, including proficiency in using chemical instrumentation and adhering to strict safety protocols. These skills are essential for teaching and scientific research, ensuring graduates can safely and competently conduct experiments in educational or professional settings.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Abilities

The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling students to approach complex scientific concepts with analytical precision. These abilities are crucial for effective science instruction and addressing the challenges faced in the chemical sciences.

Strong Communication and Information Management Skills

Graduates will be able to communicate complex chemical concepts effectively, both orally and in writing. The program also emphasizes chemical literature and information management, preparing students to navigate and organize chemical data, which is essential for science teaching and library sciences.

Real-World Applications

Our Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program provides students with real-world applications through extensive hands-on laboratory experience and exposure to advanced chemical instrumentation, technology, and software. Students work with tools commonly used in industry and graduate-level research, gaining valuable technical skills that prepare them for professional roles in education or chemical librarianship. Emphasis is placed on chemical safety procedures, with rigorous training embedded throughout all lab courses, ensuring students are well-versed in safe lab practices essential for teaching and industry settings.

The program’s focus on practical learning ensures that graduates can effectively apply their chemical knowledge and technical skills in real-world scenarios, whether in the classroom, scientific research, or information management. This hands-on experience equips students with the competencies needed to address complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in science education, chemical librarianship, and beyond, with the ability to apply their skills in a wide range of professional settings.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program is designed to incorporate the latest advancements and trends in the field of chemistry and education. Our curriculum is continuously updated to expose students to current software, technology, and instrumentation routinely used in the profession. This approach ensures that students are familiar with the tools and techniques shaping the future of science education and chemical research.

This program equips students to be innovative and adaptable professionals by staying current with industry trends and technological advancements. Courses cover emerging topics in chemistry and teaching methodologies, preparing students to embrace new educational tools and scientific technologies. This focus on the latest developments ensures graduates are ready to teach and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of science education and chemical sciences.

Hands-on Activities

The B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program at Fort Hays State University emphasizes hands-on learning through various experiential activities. Students participate in intensive laboratory sessions that provide practical experience with chemical analysis, laboratory techniques, and safety procedures. These labs are equipped with advanced instrumentation, allowing students to develop proficiency with the tools commonly used in academic and professional settings.

In addition to laboratory work, students engage in undergraduate research, selecting a chemistry field they choose to explore in depth. The program also incorporates a capstone seminar course and a rigorous chemistry literature course to enhance their learning further. Students are encouraged to attend and present their findings at professional conferences, such as those organized by the American Chemical Society (ACS), where they can share their research through oral or poster presentations. These hands-on experiences provide valuable opportunities for students to apply their classroom knowledge, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and connect with professionals in the field.

What You’ll Learn:

Comprehensive chemistry knowledge
Advanced laboratory skills
Pedagogical training
Effective communication skills and information management
Real-world chemistry applications

How You’ll Learn:

Hands-on laboratory experience with advanced instrumentation
Specialized pedagogy training for effective teaching
Undergraduate research in a chosen chemistry field
Capstone seminar and chemistry literature courses
Opportunities for conference presentations and networking

Courses

The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program at FHSU is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in chemistry, complemented by a well-rounded liberal arts education. Core courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and physical chemistry give students a thorough understanding of the key principles and practices in the chemical sciences. Specialized courses in pedagogy equip students with the skills needed to teach chemistry and science at various educational levels effectively. Elective courses offer flexibility, allowing students to explore additional areas such as chemical librarianship, science education, and other related fields. The program culminates in a capstone seminar, undergraduate research, and opportunities for conference participation, where students apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Below are a few of the courses in the B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education):

CHEM 120/120L: University Chemistry I/Laboratory

University Chemistry I is the first course in a two-semester sequence, which serves as an introduction to chemistry for science majors and pre-engineering, pre-veterinary, pre-pharmacy, and pre-medical science students.

CHEM 350/350L: Chemical Analysis/Laboratory

This course covers volumetric and gravimetric analysis principles and modern instrumental methods and includes three weekly recitations for hands-on practice and discussion and a laboratory component.Bottom of FormCCCCCCC

CHEM 675: Seminar in Chemistry

Upper-level chemistry majors engage in presenting and discussing recent advancements in chemical literature, fostering critical analysis and current scientific understanding.

Discover the full B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program at FHSU are well-prepared for diverse careers in education and related fields. With a solid foundation in chemistry and specialized pedagogy training, students gain the skills needed for success in teaching, chemical librarianship, and industry. The following career paths are some of the rewarding opportunities for graduates of this program:

Chemistry Teacher

Chemistry teachers educate elementary, middle, and high school students. They teach foundational and advanced concepts in chemistry, fostering critical thinking and scientific curiosity in the next generation. This role requires strong communication skills, subject expertise, and a passion for inspiring science students.

Chemical Librarian

Chemical librarians manage collections of chemical literature, providing valuable research resources for academic, industrial, and governmental organizations. They assist researchers and students in accessing scientific information, utilizing their expertise in chemical data management, databases, and information retrieval systems.

Chemical/Pharmaceutical Sales Representative

Sales representatives in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries promote and sell products, including chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and laboratory equipment. This role requires a solid understanding of chemical properties and industry needs and strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to build and maintain client relationships.

Regulatory and Compliance Officer

Regulatory and compliance officers ensure that chemical products and processes meet legal, safety, and environmental standards. They work in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and manufacturing industries, interpreting regulations, conducting audits, and ensuring adherence to industry standards to maintain safety and quality.

Industrial Chemist

Industrial chemists work in manufacturing and production environments, developing and optimizing chemical processes for large-scale production. They apply chemical knowledge to improve product quality, increase efficiency, and ensure safety in industrial settings, working with advanced chemical processes and technologies.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,961.90* (on-campus) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

For students interested in broadening their academic horizons or complementing their studies, Fort Hays State University offers a variety of related programs that enhance the B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education). These programs provide additional opportunities for students to expand their knowledge in chemistry, education, and other interdisciplinary fields, supporting diverse career paths and academic growth:

B.A./B.S. in Chemistry
B.S. in Biology (Education)
BSE in Secondary Education
MSE in Secondary Education (Option 1)
MSE (Chemistry Emphasis)

FAQ

How flexible is the B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) for exploratory studies?

The B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program offers flexibility for exploratory students. With a variety of electives in chemistry and the liberal arts, students can tailor their education to their interests. Personalized academic advising further supports students in exploring different paths within chemistry, education, or related fields while maintaining a strong foundation in both areas.

What are the laboratory facilities like?

Fort Hays State University boasts state-of-the-art laboratory facilities with advanced instrumentation and technology, providing students with a cutting-edge study environment.

Does the program require a practicum in student teaching?

Yes, the B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education) program at Fort Hays State University includes a practicum component in student teaching. This provides hands-on experience in a classroom setting, allowing students to apply their chemistry knowledge and teaching skills in real-world educational environments.

Are any scholarships available for a B.A. in Chemistry (Teacher Education)?

Fort Hays State University offers various scholarships and financial aid options for eligible students, helping to make the program accessible and affordable.

Information about the Department of Chemistry

The Chemistry Department at FHSU offers a comprehensive education that equips students with advanced chemistry knowledge and effective research skills. With the support of highly trained faculty, you will gain the technical and problem-solving abilities needed for success in both the job market and professional or graduate schools. Students engage in extensive research and hands-on learning with cutting-edge equipment, preparing them for careers in various scientific and healthcare fields.

Whether your goals include teaching, conducting research, or entering professional schools like medical or dental programs, our department provides in-depth undergraduate and pre-professional programs tailored to your ambitions. Graduates of our chemistry programs are highly sought after in a wide range of chemistry-related careers. With a strong academic foundation and the guidance of dedicated faculty, you will be well-prepared to pursue a successful career after completing our program.

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