Social studies majors build a broad base of knowledge and skills for teaching 5^th-12^th grade students. You'll be schooled in economics, geography, history,  political science, psychology and sociology and choose one of those as an emphasis. You'll be encouraged to pair that with a global learning experience. You'll work across departments to marry modern teaching tools to tried-and-true teaching methods that serve students of varying levels of ability. You'll also learn how to build a curriculum and experiences for students that keep social studies learning interesting and engaging by observing experienced teachers at work and practicing your techniques in schools.

Program Highlights

• Majors pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in either:
  • Social Studies: Economics
  • Social Studies: Geography
  • Social Studies: History
  • Social Studies: Political Science
  • Social Studies: Sociology
  • Social Studies: Social Science

• Coursework and fieldwork develops a strong background in civics education.
• Travel and study abroad opportunities through a variety of travel opportunities, including the option to do student teaching abroad.
• An engaged, active Social Studies Club that attends conferences, travels both internationally and domestically and hosts nationally recognized guest speakers.
• Well-traveled faculty with diverse backgrounds and experiences to bring to the classroom.
• Interdisciplinary approach prepares students for graduate studies in the social sciences, international fields and law.

Program Distinctions

• Innovative co-teaching initiative designated as a 2010 Renaissance Group  "Signature Project," and "Promising Practice" by the National Council  for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
• Licensure programs approved by Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). 
• Membership in Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).

Student Organizations

• Social Studies Club
• Future Educators Club
• The Anthropology Collective
• Travel & Tourism Club