University of St. Thomas

When asked what one phrase best describes the elementary education-science and math emphasis major at St. Thomas, a faculty member replied, Òquality.Ó

Welcome to the elementary education-science and math emphasis facts page, where youÕll be taken beyond the course offerings and program description and deeper into the elementary education-science and math emphasis major. YouÕll learn what St. Thomas students are doing now to enhance their educations and how recent graduates are succeeding in the real world. More importantly, we hope youÕll be able use this information to decide if this major interests you.

All of our students are double majors. They major in a liberal arts area and in elementary education. Elementary education with a science and math emphasis is a liberal arts major that gives the students a strong foundation in mathematics and science.

Recent graduates are working with children in schools in the Twin Cites metro area, across the state, across the country and internationally. Our students are teachers in public, private and charter schools. Graduates work also with students in nontraditional and non-school settings such as Upward Bound.

Internships. Our students complete three field experiences prior to student teaching (clinical practice). By state law all secondary education students must complete student teaching.

Study abroad. Some of our students study abroad during J-Term. UMAIE has an elective course about schools and families in England. In addition, many of our students study abroad for the required theology core course or courses related to their second major.

Many of our faculty members are working directly with K-12 school sites. One faculty member writes middle-level curriculum materials. Faculty are open to working with students on school-based action research projects. Last year one undergraduate student interviewed K-6 students to explore their notion of number sense.