General Science Minor 

Introduction  

The mission of the Science, Math, and Technology Education (SMATE) at Western  is to improve teaching and learning of science, mathematics, engineering, and computer science by all and for all. Faculty from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology, Education, and Computer Science collaborate to provide research-based and student-centered learning experiences that are equitable and inclusive.  

The General Science minor is designed to prepare well-qualified elementary teachers who are ready to teach K- 8 science concepts in life science, earth/space science, and physical science. The minor can serve as a complement to the Elementary Education major for the Bachelor of Arts in Education program but may also appeal to those wanting to teach in more informal settings.  

Why Consider a General Science Minor?  

The Next Generation Science Standards require that elementary science teachers be prepared to teach life science, physical science, and Earth science. However, according to the National Survey of Math and Science Education, only about one-third of elementary science teachers have at least one college course in each of these areas. And, while over 80 percent of elementary teachers report feeling well qualified to teach language arts, only about one-third feel well qualified to teach science. The General Science minor can help distinguish candidates with science expertise as they apply for jobs in elementary teaching.   

Student Resources  

Department website: Science Education  

Contact information: Lori Torres, Science Lecture 220, 360-650-6705, torresl@wwu.edu  

Department advising: See the Advising section of the Science Education website.  

Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.  

Career Services Center: Connect major to a career  

Sample Careers: Elementary Teacher, Environmental Science Teacher, Outdoor Educator  

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):  

Students can declare the General Science Minor with Lori Torres.  

Grade Requirements  

A grade of C- or better is required for a student's major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.  

Requirements (19-21 credits)  

Science Education Core (16 credits)  

• ❑   SCED 201 - Matter and Energy in Physical Systems Credits: 4  
• ❑   SCED 202 - Matter and Energy in Earth Systems Credits: 4  
• ❑   SCED 203 - Matter and Energy in Life Systems Credits: 4  
• ❑   SCED 204 - Matter and Energy in Chemical Systems Credits: 4  

Electives (3-5 credits)  

❑ Must complete at least 3 credits of additional science education or science coursework under advisement. See SMATE's website for a list of possible courses.  

University Graduation Requirements  

General University Requirements 2025-26  
Writing Proficiency Requirement (WP)  
180 Minimum Total Credits  
60 Minimum Upper Division Credits  
Residency Requirement  
Minimum Grade Requirements  
Final Quarter Requirement