Temple University's Graduate Certificate in Secondary Education Science provides a focused, non-degree pathway to initial teacher certification in grades 7 through 12 for individuals with a strong background in science. Designed for college graduates and working professionals—especially those with degrees in biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, or related fields—this program prepares future educators to bring their subject matter expertise to diverse, secondary-level classrooms.
This certificate program equips you with the knowledge, tools, and hands-on experience to effectively teach science content aligned with Pennsylvania academic standards. Through coursework in adolescent development, instructional methods, and inclusive practices, you’ll learn how to design engaging science lessons that foster inquiry, critical thinking, and equity in the classroom.
You’ll also complete a full-time supervised student teaching placement to gain real-world classroom experience. This clinical practice is a critical component of certification and allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a supportive, mentored environment.
The program can be completed on a part-time basis and includes evening courses at Temple’s Main Campus. It is well suited for those currently working or teaching on emergency permits who want to earn their certification while balancing other responsibilities.
Science Certification Areas Include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Earth and Space Science
- General Science
- Physics
Classes & Curriculum
The Secondary Education - Science graduate certificate program consists of 19 credits. Courses are held on Temple’s Main Campus in Philadelphia, though some online and hybrid options are available. Most classes are scheduled in the evenings to accommodate working professionals. You can attend full- or part-time, and you have up to four years to complete the program.
Core Pedagogy & Inclusion Courses (13 credits)
Course Number | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
Literacy in the Disciplines (Secondary Education) | 3 | |
Literacy Instruction for Students with Disabilities | 3 | |
Foundations of Language Teaching | 3 | |
Supervised Teaching | 4 |
*May substitute TESL 5613 – Literacy Development for English Language Learners, depending on student’s background or program advisor recommendation.
Subject-Specific Methods Courses (6 credits)
Students will take two science teaching methods courses, depending on their subject focus:
Subject Area | Methods Course Options |
|---|---|
Biology 7-12 | Secondary Methods in Biology I and II |
Chemistry 7-12 | Secondary Methods in Chemistry I and II |
Earth Science 7-12 | Secondary Methods in Earth/Space Science I and II |
General Science 7-12 | Select based on your strongest background; advisor-guided |
Physics 7-12 | Secondary Methods in Physics I and II |
These include content-specific pedagogy, curriculum design, and instructional strategies for science education in grades 7–12.
Fieldwork
In addition to state certification exams and student teaching, you must complete field experiences as part of your coursework. Field placements are designed to give you teaching experience working with children in educational settings. Students must complete required clearances and prerequisite coursework before beginning fieldwork. The majority of field experiences require students to spend seven full days over the course of a semester in the classroom. EDUC 5888 – Supervised Teaching involves a full-time teaching placement in a secondary classroom under the guidance of a mentor teacher and university supervisor. During the student teaching semester, students are required to spend every day in the classroom for 14 weeks.
Program Outcomes
Graduates will:
-
Develop strong content knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, or earth and general science.
-
Design and deliver inquiry-based, standards-aligned science instruction.
-
Engage students in scientific thinking, experimentation, and real-world applications.
-
Create inclusive, supportive classrooms that reflect equity and diversity in STEM education.
-
Demonstrate professionalism and readiness for Pennsylvania teacher certification.
Teacher Certification
This program prepares you to successfully complete state certification exams, allowing you to apply for a Pennsylvania Instructional I Teaching Certificate. Learn more about certification.
Tuition & Fees
In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this graduate certificate offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.
Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.
Pennsylvania resident: $1,105.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,518.00 per credit
View the full cost of attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Statement of goals
- Transcripts
- Clearances required prior to field placement
How to Apply
Complete your application online at apply.temple.edu/cehd
Important Application Note
Temple University is in the process of launching a new graduate application for this certificate program. For Fall 2025 admission, applicants should select the corresponding master’s degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Science Education when applying. After admission, our Graduate Academic Advising team will update your record to reflect enrollment in the graduate certificate program. No additional steps are required on your part.
Questions
For more information about this program, the College of Education and Human Development, how to apply for admission and your application status, contact Enrollment Management.
Enrollment Management
Ritter Annex 150
1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Phone: 215-204-8011
Email: educate@temple.edu