Integrated Social Studies Education Program Overview
This major combines the strengths of the content area courses from the College of Arts and Sciences with teaching theory and practice from our College of Education. With guidance from professors who are experts in their fields, you will gain the confidence and capabilities needed to become a knowledgeable and effective social studies teacher.
When it comes to content knowledge, you will learn how to teach from great teachers of those subjects. This modeling of good teaching helps form your teaching ability. In your education courses you will learn the reality of teaching, the pedagogical skills and research-based practices needed to reach diverse students and address their needs. You will also have many opportunities to be in the classroom, learning through first-hand experience.
How Do I Know if This Program Is Right for Me?
If you have a strong interest in understanding societal structures, political systems, and global issues, and enjoy helping students critically analyze historical events and contemporary issues, teaching high school integrated social studies may be a rewarding choice for you. Additionally, if you value promoting civic engagement, cultural understanding, and social justice, and are committed to preparing students for informed citizenship and lifelong learning, pursuing a career in high school integrated social studies education could be a fulfilling and impactful journey for you.
Learning Experiences
Expect equal emphasis on the science of classroom teaching and the study of your content areas, including history, political science, psychology, sociology, economics and geography. You will enter the classroom to observe, assist and educate and will become more involved each semester. You will finish with a student teaching experience that will provide first-hand knowledge of teaching social studies in the classroom, from lesson planning to grading and completing accommodations and modifications for students. You become a teacher for a semester with the help of an experienced educator.
The number one priority of our faculty and staff is the success of students. Their mentorship, coursework and research will provide you with an excellent experience.
In working with them, you will:
- Receive a personalized education in small class sizes within pedagogical and content area courses
- Learn from experienced education and social science professors who are experts in their fields and caring mentors
- Apply for the Ashbrook Scholar program through the Ashbrook Center. This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional students of History, Political Science and Political Economy, including Integrated Social studies majors.
- Participate in professional development workshops taught by professors for middle grade and high school social studies education
As a graduate of the Integrated Social Studies Education Program, you will have the knowledge, skills and licensure preparation needed to pass your licensure exams and start teaching immediately after graduation.
Sample Curriculum
Learn more about the Integrated Social Studies Education curriculum by reviewing the Four-Year Curriculum Guide, Academic Catalog, Academic Plan and Undergraduate Gateways.
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
| Licensure Disclosure: This program is for students who intend to seek employment in Ohio and only prepares students for licensure in the state of Ohio. |
Can You Give Me a Glimpse of My Future?
As a high school teacher, you'll have the opportunity to inspire and empower students during a crucial stage of their academic and personal development. Your future in high school education will involve fostering critical thinking skills, nurturing a love for learning and preparing students for success in their academic pursuits and beyond.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for high school teachers is $65,220.
Despite a slight decline in employment, about 64,000 openings for high school teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
High school teachers play a vital role in educating and guiding students through their academic journey. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Planning and delivering lessons: High school teachers prepare and deliver instructional materials, lectures and activities to facilitate student learning in various subjects.
- Assessing student progress: They evaluate student performance through assignments, exams and projects, providing feedback to support academic growth and achievement.
- Creating a positive learning environment: High school teachers cultivate a supportive and inclusive classroom atmosphere that encourages student engagement, participation and respect for diversity.
- Providing academic support: They offer additional assistance to students who may need help understanding concepts, completing assignments or preparing for exams.
- Collaborating with colleagues and parents: High school teachers work closely with other educators, administrators and parents to address student needs, develop curriculum and promote student success.
- Participating in professional development: They engage in ongoing professional growth and learning opportunities to stay updated on educational trends, teaching strategies and subject-area knowledge.
- CCP Courses: In Ohio, high school teachers with a master’s degree and 18 graduate credits in a content-area may also be responsible for teaching College Credit Plus courses at the high school.
Overall, high school teachers play a crucial role in shaping students' academic, social and emotional development, preparing them for future success in college, careers and beyond.
Graduates with a teaching license may be hired by school districts, charter schools or private schools. Additionally, opportunities may exist in other non-profit organizations, curriculum development companies and educational technology companies.