Minor and Certificate Programs
- Minors
- Certificates
- Advanced Mathematics Certificate
- Applied Statistical Modeling Certificate
- Computational Science and Engineering Certificate
- Programming and Computation Certificate
- Evidence and Inquiry Certificate
- Food and Society Certificate
- Forensic Science Certificate
- Marine Science Certificate
- Pre-Health Professions Certificate
- Quantum Information Science Certificate
- Scientific Computation and Data Sciences Certificate
- Textile Conservation and Museum Studies Certificate
- UTeach-Natural Sciences Secondary Teaching Option Certificate
In the College of Natural Sciences, only one transcript-recognized minor or transcript-recognized certificate may be declared per major.
A student who wishes to pursue more than one transcript-recognized minor or transcript-recognized certificate per major must consult with his or her academic advisor to get permission from the College. When considering whether to grant an exception and allow pursuit of another transcript-recognized credential, the academic advisor will take into account the student's long-term education/professional goals and the student's ability to graduate within four years of entering the university.
Students admitted to transcript-recognized certificate and transcript-recognized minor programs must contact their academic advisors to have approved programs added to their degree audit profiles. This allows progress toward the programs to be tracked and ensures that certificates and minors are added to official transcripts upon graduation, if all requirements are met.
Minors
The College of Natural Sciences does not offer any minor programs. To see a full list of minors offered at the University, please see The University section of the Undergraduate Catalog.
The transcript-recognized undergraduate academic minor must be completed in conjunction with an undergraduate degree at The University of Texas at Austin. For more information regarding the requirements for achieving a minor, including a comprehensive list of minors, please visit the Minor and Certificate Programs section of the Undergraduate Catalog.
Robotics Minor
The transcript-recognized undergraduate academic Robotics Minor must be completed in conjunction with an undergraduate degree at The University of Texas at Austin in one of the following majors: Aerospace Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computational Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Computer Science. The minor is administered by Texas Robotics as a collaboration between the Cockrell School of Engineering and the College of Natural Sciences. Details about the minor in robotics are available at https://robotics.utexas.edu/.
Admissions
To be considered for admissions into the Robotics Minor, students must meet the following requirements:
- The minor must be completed in conjunction with an undergraduate degree in one of the following supported majors of Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computational Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering.
- Students who have completed 24 hours or more in residence will be encouraged to apply online at the earliest possible date. Applications will be reviewed once a semester (Fall and Spring).
Requirements
The requirements for the Robotics Minor consist of 15 credit hours towards the minor. All students will be required to take a three-credit-hour, gateway course (Robotics 350 ) that will prepare students to take robotics minor courses in areas outside of their declared major. In addition to the gateway course, students must take 4 courses; each course must be from a different content area. There are five content areas: hardware; programming; modeling and control; sensing, perception and planning; and machine learning. Below is a list of approved courses in each content area that count towards the Robotics Minor.
All classes must be taken on the letter-grade basis. The student must earn a combined grade point average of at least 2.00 in these courses.
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| RBT 350 | Gateway to Robotics | 3 |
| One course from at least four different content areas: | 12 | |
| Hardware Courses: | ||
| Advanced Mechatronics I | ||
| Robot Mechanism Design | ||
| Programming Courses: | ||
| Application Programming for Engineers | ||
| F1/10 Autonomous Driving | ||
| Embedded Systems Design Laboratory | ||
| Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory | ||
| Aerial Robotics | ||
| Modeling and Control Courses: | ||
| Automatic Control System Design | ||
| Feedback Control Systems | ||
| Introduction to Automatic Control | ||
| Linear System Analysis | ||
| Biomechanics of Human Movement | ||
| Robotics and Automation | ||
| F1/10 Autonomous Driving | ||
| Sensing, Perception, and Planning Courses: | ||
| F1/10 Autonomous Driving | ||
| Robotics and Automation | ||
| Aerial Robotics | ||
| Embedded Systems Design Laboratory | ||
| Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory | ||
| Neural Engineering | ||
| Computer Vision | ||
| Introduction to Computer Vision | ||
| Machine Learning Courses: | ||
| Neural Networks | ||
| Artificial Intelligence | ||
| Principles of Machine Learning I | ||
| Topics in Computational Engineering (Topic 1: Introduction to Machine Learning and Data Sciences) | ||
| Data Science Laboratory | ||
| Machine Learning and Data Analytics for Edge Artificial Intelligence | ||
| Neural Engineering | ||
| Data Science Principles | ||
| Total Hours | 15 | |
Statistics and Data Science Minor
The minor in Statistics and Data Science will give students experience manipulating, summarizing and visualizing data and applying statistical and machine learning methods. Students are exposed to the principles of and tools for conducting reproducible data analysis and are taught to think critically about relevant ethical issues (e.g., data privacy, misrepresention of findings).
The minor requires 15 semester hours of coursework with a grade of at least C- in each course. No credit-by-exam may be used to fulfill minor course requirements. The following courses are required:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Three hours selected from each of the following foundational areas: | ||
| Statistics | 3 | |
| Elements of Statistics | ||
| Elements of Statistics: Honors | ||
| Statistical Thinking | ||
| Data Science | 3 | |
| Elements of Data Science | ||
| Introduction to Data Science | ||
| Programming | 3 | |
| Elements of Computers and Programming | ||
| Introduction to Programming | ||
| Introduction to Programming: Honors | ||
| Six hours selected from any of the following supplementary courses and areas: | 6 | |
Regression/Modeling | ||
| Elements of Regression Analysis | ||
| Intermediate Statistical Methods | ||
Machine Learning | ||
| Elements of Statistical Machine Learning | ||
| Practical Machine Learning | ||
Databases | ||
| Elements of Databases | ||
Probability/Mathematical Statistics/Statistical Inference | ||
| Introduction to Probability and Statistics | ||
| Probability and Statistical Inference | ||
| Probability I | ||
| Introduction to Mathematical Statistics | ||
Data Visualization | ||
| Data Visualization | ||
| Total Hours | 15 | |
Certificates
Undergraduate certificate programs encourage students to explore academic areas that support and extend their degree plans. The following certificates require at least 18 semester hours of coursework, some of which may also be used to fulfill degree requirements. Undergraduates who complete the certificate requirements in conjunction with their degree requirements or within one year after earning the degree will receive a certificate and recognition on their University transcript. A maximum of nine hours in the certificate program may be taken after completion of the undergraduate degree. At least half of the required coursework in the certificate program must be completed in residence at the University.
Advanced Mathematics Certificate
More advanced mathematical understanding and sophistication enhance nearly every technical degree. The Advanced Mathematics Certificate will allow students from a broad range of disciplines to receive formal recognition for obtaining additional skills, training, and knowledge in advanced mathematics.
The certificate program requires 18 semester hours of coursework with a grade of at least a C- in each course. Courses that appear in multiple approved course lists may be used to satisfy only one requirement. No credit-by-exam may be used to fulfill certificate course requirements. The following courses are required:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Foundational Coursework | ||
| Three hours selected from the following IBL coursework as designated in the Course Schedule: | 3 | |
| Discrete Mathematics (must be IBL or II) | ||
| Introduction to Number Theory (must be IBL or II) | ||
| Structure of Modern Geometry (must be IBL or II) | ||
| Three hours selected from the following: | 3 | |
| Matrices and Matrix Calculations | ||
| Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory | ||
| Introduction to Algebraic Structures | ||
| Introduction to Real Analysis | ||
| Real Analysis I | ||
| Algebraic Structures I | ||
| Supplementary Coursework | ||
| Six hours selected from the following: | 6 | |
| Real Analysis II | ||
| Topology I | ||
| Topology II | ||
| Introduction to Stochastic Processes | ||
| Algebraic Structures II | ||
| Introduction to Mathematical Statistics | ||
| Six hours selected from the following: | 6 | |
| Introduction to Algebraic Structures | ||
| Applied Number Theory | ||
| Applied Linear Algebra | ||
| Scientific Computation in Numerical Analysis | ||
| Applied Statistics | ||
| Theory of Functions of a Complex Variable | ||
| Introduction to Real Analysis | ||
| Introduction to Stochastic Processes | ||
| Real Analysis I | ||
| Real Analysis II | ||
| Topology I | ||
| Topology II | ||
| Numerical Methods for Applications | ||
| Partial Differential Equations and Applications | ||
| Algebraic Structures I | ||
| Algebraic Structures II | ||
| Introduction to Mathematical Statistics | ||
| Mathematical Modeling in Science and Engineering | ||
| Generalized Linear Models | ||
| Introduction to Financial Mathematics for Actuaries | ||
| Predictive Analytics | ||
| Probability Models with Actuarial Applications | ||
| Actuarial Contingent Payments I | ||
| Actuarial Contingent Payments II | ||
| Actuarial Statistical Estimates | ||
| Applied Regression and Time Series | ||
| Decision Analytics | ||
| Discovery: An Introduction to Advanced Study in Mathematics | ||
| Please Note: | ||
| With the approval of the certificate program faculty, other appropriate courses may be counted toward the certificate requirements. | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Applied Statistical Modeling Certificate
The certificate in Applied Statistical Modeling equips undergraduate students with the tools necessary to understand how to apply statistics to their primary field of study. This certificate program is designed to complement diverse degree programs and to appeal to students across the University in engineering, science, economics, mathematics, and many other disciplines. Certificate students will complete one course in the mathematical foundations of statistics, a two-course sequence in applied statistics, and nine additional hours in statistics, machine learning, econometrics, and other relevant courses from the approved list below.
Admission to the certificate is by application only. Students may download an application from the Department of Statistics and Data Sciences webpage. Students seeking the certificate must also complete the prerequisite course Mathematics 408C, 408L, 408N, 408R, or 408S with a grade of at least C-.
The certificate consists of 18 hours. Students must receive a grade of at least C in each course applied toward the certificate and have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in the courses presented to fulfill the certificate. Courses that appear in multiple approved course lists may be used to satisfy only one requirement. Students must contact the Department of Statistics and Data Sciences in the semester in which they are completing the requirements and graduating.
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematical foundation of statistics | 3 | |
| Engineering Probability and Statistics | ||
| Probability and Random Processes | ||
| Probability I | ||
| Introduction to Probability and Statistics | ||
| Sequence in applied statistics | 6 | |
| Choose one of the following: | ||
| Economic Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Statistics | ||
| Statistical Analysis in Political Science | ||
| Applied Statistics | ||
| Psychological Methods and Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Social Statistics | ||
| Foundations of Data Analysis | ||
| Elements of Statistics | ||
| Elements of Statistics: Honors | ||
| Introduction to Data Science | ||
| Introduction to Data Science: Honors | ||
| And one of the following: | ||
| Data Science Principles | ||
| Introduction to Econometrics | ||
| Applied Regression and Time Series | ||
| Advanced Statistics | ||
| Elements of Data Science | ||
| Elements of Statistical Machine Learning | ||
| Elements of Regression Analysis | ||
| Electives: Choose Three: 1 | 9 | |
| Advertising and Public Relations Research | ||
| Neural Networks | ||
| Artificial Intelligence | ||
| Principles of Machine Learning I | ||
| Information Retrieval and Web Search | ||
| Communication Research Methods | ||
| Introductory Game Theory | ||
| Advanced Topics in Econometrics | ||
| Advanced Econometrics | ||
| Empirical Public Economics | ||
| Computational Methods | ||
| Seismic Data Processing | ||
| Foundations of Epidemiology | ||
| Evaluation and Research Design | ||
| Measurement in Kinesiology | ||
| Special Topics in the Study of Language (Topic 15: Computational Semantics) | ||
| Probability Models with Actuarial Applications | ||
| Actuarial Statistical Estimates | ||
| Introduction to Stochastic Processes | ||
| Introduction to Mathematical Statistics | ||
or SDS 378 | Introduction to Mathematical Statistics | |
| Decision Analytics | ||
or SDS 378P | Decision Analytics | |
| Topics in Management Information Systems (Topic 11: Advanced Analytics Programming) | ||
| Topics in Management Information Systems (Topic 22: Predictive Analytics and Data Mining) | ||
| Epidemiology I | ||
| Applied Reservoir Characterization | ||
| Elements of Data Science | ||
| Elements of Regression Analysis | ||
| Elements of Statistical Machine Learning | ||
| Advanced Multivariate Modeling | ||
| Special Topics in Statistics | ||
| Special Topics in Scientific Computation | ||
| Undergraduate Research | ||
| Topics in Statistics (Topic 21: Time Series Forecasting) | ||
| Data Science for Business Applications | ||
| Data Science for Business Applications: Honors | ||
| Please Note: | ||
| SDS 322E, 326E, and 324E may only be counted toward one requirement each. | ||
| --- | ||
| 1. Students are encouraged to select courses within their own majors or colleges as appropriate. The Statistics and Data Sciences courses listed are available to students in all majors. | ||
Computational Science and Engineering Certificate
The Computational Science and Engineering Certificate program is sponsored by the Cockrell School of Engineering, the Jackson School of Geosciences, the College of Liberal Arts, and the College of Natural Sciences; it is administered by the Institute for Computational Engineering and Sciences (ICES). Information regarding the specific requirements of the Certificate can be found in the Cockrell School of Engineering's Minor and Certificates section of the Undergraduate Catalog.
Programming and Computation Certificate
The Programming and Computation Certificate, administered by the Department of Computer Science, is designed to support computational work in disciplines other than computer science and to provide students with skills in the use of computer applications. Any non-computer science major may take any Programming and Computation course for which the student meets the prerequisite. No application process is required.
To earn the Programming and Computation Certificate, students must complete 18 semester hours of coursework with a grade of at least C- in each course.
The following coursework is required:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| C S 303E | Elements of Computers and Programming (or the equivalent) | 3 |
| C S 313E | Elements of Software Design (or the equivalent) | 3 |
| Four of the following courses: | 12 | |
| Elements of Scientific Computing | ||
| Elements of Graphics and Visualization | ||
| Elements of Networking | ||
| Elements of Databases | ||
| Topics in Elements of Computing | ||
| Advanced Topics in Elements of Computing | ||
| Elements of Software Engineering I | ||
| Elements of Software Engineering II | ||
| Please Note: | ||
| 1. With the approval of the certificate program faculty committee, up to two appropriate substitute courses may be counted toward the elective requirement. This includes courses that are transferred in from other universities and/or study abroad. | ||
| 2. Students will be allowed a maximum of two attempts at C S 303E and C S 313E. Symbols of CR, Q, and W count as course attempts, as do grades below C-. | ||
| 3. Undergraduate students will be allowed to enroll in a maximum of two upper division courses in a semester and four upper division courses in total. | ||
Evidence and Inquiry Certificate
The Evidence and Inquiry Certificate, pursued by students in the Polymathic Scholars Program and open by application to others, allows students to design an area of study shaped by questions that require evidence and methodologies outside their major. Students work with faculty to identify interests, map them onto academic disciplines at the University, and determine questions related to those interests that might be answerable by research that combines expertise from at least two disciplines. Students describe their area of study, identify primary questions, name two University of Texas at Austin faculty members with research experience relevant to their field, and justify the courses they would take in a written proposal that must be reviewed by three members of the program's faculty steering committee. Students complete an original research thesis in their final year. Those who plan to pursue the certificate must apply no later than the end of their third long semester. More information about the Evidence and Inquiry Certificate is available on the College of Natural Sciences website.
The certificate program requires 22 semester hours of coursework, including at least 11 hours completed in residence. Students must meet the following requirements:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| UGS 303 | First-Year Signature Course | 3 |
| NSC 109 | Topics in Natural Science (Topic 4: Polymathic Capstone Field Invention) | 1 |
| Four additional courses, including at least six semester hours of upper-division coursework, from the student's approved evidence and inquiry area of study | 12 | |
| Senior Capstone Sequence | 6 | |
| Natural Sciences Topics (Topic 1: Polymathic Capstone Thesis Preparation Seminar) | ||
| Capstone Thesis Seminar | ||
In the College of Natural Sciences, the Evidence and Inquiry Certificate may be used to complement any major. Some certificate courses will also fulfill degree requirements established by the student's major department and are given later in this section; however, some of the 22 hours required for the certificate may be in addition to the number of hours required for the degree.
Food and Society Certificate
Though food-related issues vary widely in focus, they are all linked by their complexity and are deeply interdisciplinary nature, each relating to topics of health and nutrition, genetics, politics, culture, the environment, economics, and business. Students will be able to appreciate the full range of these interdisciplinary ties and apply new perspectives to their primary academic majors and careers.
Students completing the certificate will be able to apply a more comprehensive understanding of the implications of their food-related actions and decisions; find better solutions to today's complex problems; formulate more effective public policy; become better informed and active citizens; and make healthier choices for themselves and their families.
No admission to the certificate is required. Students must contact the advising office in the School of Human Ecology to apply for the certificate the semester before the certificate requirements are met. The certificate consists of 18 hours, of which nine hours must be in upper-division coursework. Courses must be completed with minimum grades of at least C- unless the course is offered only on the pass/fail basis. Students also seeking the Bachelor of Science in Nutrition may count a maximum of six hours in nutrition toward the food and society certificate.
Some of the courses may contain prerequisites that are in addition to the coursework for the certificate.
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Three hours of introductory nutrition chosen from the following: | 3 | |
| Fundamentals of Nutrition | ||
| Introduction to Nutritional Sciences | ||
| Introduction to Nutritional Sciences: Honors | ||
| Fifteen hours selected from a minimum of two themes chosen from table 1, 2 and 3 below. 1 | 15 | |
| --- | ||
| 1. No more than nine hours in a single theme may be applied toward the certificate. | ||
1. Nutrition and Health
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| NTR 218 & NTR 118L | Assessment of Nutritional Status and Assessment of Nutritional Status Laboratory | 3 |
| NTR 307 | Introductory Food Science | 3 |
| NTR 315 | Nutrition through the Life Cycle | 3 |
| NTR 330 | Nutrition Education and Counseling | 3 |
| NTR 321 | International Nutrition: The Developing World | 3 |
| NTR 334 | Foodservice Systems Management | 3 |
| NTR 353 | Field Experience in International Nutrition | 3 |
| NTR 365 | Selected Topics in Nutritional Sciences (Topic 4: Obesity and Metabolic Health) | 3 |
| SOC 308S | Introduction to Health and Society | 3 |
| N 309 | Global Health | 3 |
2. Culture and History
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| NTR 316 | Culture and Food | 3 |
| AMS 370 | Seminar in American Culture (Topic 26: American Food) | 3 |
| ANT 307 | Culture and Communication | 3 |
| C C 340 | Advanced Topics in Classical Archaeology (Topic 6: Food, Health, and Culture in the Ancient Mediterranean) | 3 |
| C C 348 | Topics in Ancient Civilization (Topic 14: Ancient Greek Medicine) | 3 |
3. Politics, Economics, and Environment
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| NTR 331 | International Nutrition: Social and Environmental Policies | 3 |
| NTR 332 | Community Nutrition | 3 |
| GRG 331K | Nature, Society, and Adaptation | 3 |
| GRG 344K | Global Food, Farming, and Hunger | 3 |
| GRG 339K | Environment, Development, and Food Production | 3 |
| GOV 370I | The Politics of Food in America | 3 |
| MNS 308 | Humans and a Changing Ocean | 3 |
| MNS 367K | Human Exploration and Exploitation of the Sea | 3 |
Forensic Science Certificate
The Forensic Science Certificate provides an interdisciplinary perspective for students interested in careers in forensic science.
Students seeking employment in forensic science laboratories upon graduation are encouraged to select biology and chemistry courses. Some of these courses may require introductory biology and chemistry courses as prerequisites.
Students must apply online for admission to the certificate through the university-wide portal for transcript-recognized certificates as soon as they decide to pursue the certificate. The certificate consists of 18 hours, including six upper-division hours, with grades of at least C-:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| ANT 301 | Biological Anthropology | 3 |
| NSC 309 | Topics in Natural Science (Topic 6: Introduction to Forensic Science) | 3 |
| Six hours chosen from any of the following courses relevant to forensic science: | 6 | |
| Criminalistics: | ||
| Introduction to the Study of Society | ||
| Criminology | ||
| Sociology of Criminal Justice | ||
| Social Psychology and the Law | ||
| Behavioral Science: | ||
| Introduction to Psychology | ||
| Biopsychology | ||
| Social Psychology | ||
| Pharmacology: | ||
| Principles of Drug Action | ||
| Forensic Science: | ||
| Anatomy and Biology of the Human Skeleton | ||
| Six hours chosen from any of the following areas: | 6 | |
| Anatomy and Physiology: | ||
| Primate Anatomy | ||
| Human Systems Physiology | ||
| Human Microscopic and Gross Anatomy | ||
| Comparative Animal Physiology | ||
| Human Systems Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Experimental Physiology | ||
| Chemistry: | ||
| Fundamentals of Biochemistry | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry | ||
| Genetics and Microbiology: | ||
| Human Variation | ||
| Anthropological Genetics | ||
| Genetics | ||
| Laboratory Experience in Genetics | ||
| Human Genetics | ||
| General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| Statistics and Computation (One course chosen from the following): | ||
| Principles of Computational Biology | ||
| Elementary Statistical Methods | ||
| Foundations of Data Analysis | ||
| Elements of Statistics | ||
| Additional coursework from the criminalistics, behavioral science and forensic science sections above. 1 | ||
| --- | ||
| 1. A course may not count toward both six-hour requirements above | ||
Marine Science Certificate
The Marine Science transcript-recognized certificate enables students to explore the field of marine science. The certificate provides a foundation of basic competency in the fundamentals of marine science, along with specialized upper-division coursework in aquatic science. The knowledge of aquatic science that students gain through the certificate will help them to be competitive for employment or graduate study in this field.
The certificate consists of a minimum of 19 hours with grades of at least C-. Most of the courses in the certificate contain prerequisites of one year of general biology and one year of general chemistry.
Marine and Freshwater Biology and Marine and Freshwater Science majors are not eligible to earn the certificate. Environmental Science majors may count no more than nine hours of degree requirements toward the Marine Science certificate.
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| MNS 310 | Fundamentals of Marine Science | 3 |
| MNS 320 | Marine Ecology | 3 |
| MNS 120L | Laboratory Studies in Marine Ecology | 1 |
| Three hours chosen from: | 3 | |
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Advanced Introduction to Genetics: Honors | ||
| Principles of Chemistry I | ||
| Foundations of Chemistry I | ||
| Principles of Chemistry II | ||
| Foundations of Chemistry II | ||
| Nine hours from the following, including at least six hours at the Marine Science Institute in Port Aransas, Texas: | 9 | |
| Limnology and Oceanography | ||
| Principles of Marine Science: Laboratory Studies | ||
| Principles of Marine Science: Laboratory Studies | ||
| Principles of Marine Science: Undergraduate Seminar | ||
| Principles of Marine Science: Undergraduate Seminar | ||
| Principles of Marine Science: Special Topics | ||
| Principles of Marine Science: Special Topics | ||
| Training Cruise(s) (Topic 1: Training Cruise(s): Research in Biological Oceanography ) | ||
| Principles of Marine Science | ||
| Estuarine Ecology | ||
| Marine Botany | ||
| Marine Conservation Biology | ||
| Topics in Marine Science | ||
| Marine Invertebrates | ||
| Biology of Fishes | ||
| Aquatic Microbiology | ||
| Marine Chemistry | ||
| Marine Environmental Science | ||
| Biological Oceanography | ||
| Biology of Sharks, Skates, and Rays | ||
| Physiology of Fishes | ||
| Ecosystem Oceanography | ||
| Marine Phytoplankton Diversity | ||
| Human Exploration and Exploitation of the Sea | ||
| Special Studies in Marine Science | ||
| Special Studies in Marine Science | ||
| Special Studies in Marine Science | ||
Pre-Health Professions Certificate
The Pre-Health Professions Certificate assists students in preparing for post-baccalaureate, healthcare professional programs. The certificate consists of a minimum of 20 hours, including nine hours in residence. Each course presented for the certificate must be completed with a grade of at least C-.
The certificate is composed of two separate tracks: a track for majors in the College of Natural Sciences, and a track for majors in other colleges across the university. Students must apply online for admission to the certificate through the university-wide portal for transcript recognized certificates.
Students must complete two of the three Natural Sciences 107J, Natural Sciences 107K, or Natural Sciences 107M courses managed by the Health Professions Office to receive the certificate. It is recommended that all three Natural Sciences 107J/Natural Sciences 107K/Natural Sciences 107M courses be taken. These one-hour courses introduce students to the core competencies required as a health care professional, assist the student in discerning the appropriate health professional career, and support the student in completing application to professional school.
Students are encouraged to work closely with the Health Professions Office to select healthcare themes relevant to their professional career goals. Some of the courses may contain prerequisites that are in addition to the coursework for the certificate.
Majors in the College of Natural Sciences must seek the Science Major Track.
Majors outside of the College of Natural Sciences must seek the Non-Science Major Track. The composition of the non-science major track is science coursework necessary for admission to post-baccalaureate, healthcare professional programs. Non-science majors may apply to the certificate program upon completion of the following courses with grades of at least B-: Chemistry 301 or 302, and one of the following: Statistics and Data Sciences 302F, Mathematics 408C, 408K, 408N, 408R, Educational Psychology 308, or Psychology 317L. Upon admission, the ability to progress in the certificate is dependent on completion of the certificate courses with satisfactory grades.
Science Major Track
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Two of the following: | 2 | |
| The Effective Health Care Professional | ||
| Thriving in a Collaborative Healthcare Environment | ||
| Introduction to the Health Professions Action Plan | ||
| Complete 18 hours chosen from the following themes relevant to healthcare. | 18 | |
| Cultural Awareness: | ||
| Introduction to Asian American Studies | ||
| Introductory Topics in Asian American Studies (Topic 1: Psychological Perspectives on Asian American Identity) | ||
| African American Culture | ||
| Psychology of the African American Experience | ||
| Seminar in American Culture (Topic 49: Twentieth-Century United States Lesbian and Gay History) | ||
| Topics in Latin American Anthropology (Topic 16: Mexican Immigration Cultural History) | ||
| Introduction to Mexican American Cultural Studies | ||
| Introduction to the Middle East: Adjustment and Change in Modern Times | ||
| Perspectives on Deafness | ||
| Health and Anatomy: | ||
| Art, Art History, and Medicine | ||
| Introduction to Medical and Scientific Terminology | ||
| Human Sexuality | ||
or HED 366 | Human Sexuality | |
or PSY 346K | Psychology of Sex | |
| Theories of Substance Use and Abuse | ||
| Foundations of Epidemiology | ||
| Studies in Health: Topical Studies | ||
| Topical Seminar in Health Promotion | ||
| Evaluation and Research Design | ||
| Applied Biomechanics of Human Movement | ||
| Applied Human Anatomy | ||
| Physiology of Exercise | ||
| Biomechanical Analysis of Movement | ||
| Introduction to Psychology | ||
| Biopsychology | ||
| Hormones and Behavior | ||
| Selected Topics in Psychology (Topic 4: Health Psychology) | ||
| Psychopharmacology | ||
| Introduction to Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences | ||
| Healthcare Policy: | ||
| Communication Ethics | ||
| Human Health and the Environment | ||
| Children's Environmental Health | ||
| Global Food, Farming, and Hunger | ||
| Medical Geography | ||
| Peer Health Leadership I | ||
| Undergraduate Seminar in United States History (Topic 18: Women in Sickness and Health) | ||
| Healthcare System Management | ||
| Global Health | ||
| Ethics of Health Care | ||
| Introduction to Public Health | ||
| Medicine, Ethics, and Society | ||
| Introduction to the Sociology of Health and Well-Being | ||
| Introduction to Social Demography | ||
| Global Health Issues and Health Systems | ||
| Race, Class, and Health | ||
| Sociology of Health and Illness | ||
| Population and Society | ||
| Human Health and the Environment | ||
| Human and Societal Development: | ||
| Team-Based Communication | ||
| Communication Ethics | ||
| Introduction to Life Span Development | ||
| Family Relationships | ||
| Child Development | ||
| Adult Development | ||
| Development of Psychopathology from Infancy through Adolescence | ||
| Human Development in Minority and Immigrant Families | ||
| Infant Development and Attachment Relationships | ||
| Advanced Child and Family Development (Approved topics) | ||
| Communication in Health Care Settings | ||
| Introduction to Psychology | ||
| Biopsychology | ||
| Hormones and Behavior | ||
| Introduction to Developmental Psychology | ||
| Selected Topics in Psychology (Topic 4: Health Psychology) | ||
| Introduction to the Study of Society | ||
| Death and Dying: Sociological Perspectives | ||
| Sociology of Gender | ||
| Child and Adolescent Health | ||
| Current Social Work Topics (Topic 9: Loss and Grief: Individual, Family, and Cultural Perspectives) | ||
| Nutrition: | ||
| Communication Ethics | ||
| Undergraduate Seminar in United States History (Topic 5: American Cultural History of Alcohol and Drugs) | ||
| Fundamentals of Nutrition | ||
| Introduction to Nutritional Sciences | ||
| Nutrition through the Life Cycle | ||
| Assessment of Nutritional Status | ||
| International Nutrition: The Developing World | ||
| Intermediate Nutrition and Metabolism | ||
| International Nutrition: Social and Environmental Policies | ||
| Community Nutrition | ||
Optional: If additional hours are needed to complete the 20 hours for the certificate, a maximum of nine hours chosen from the following may be applied to the science major track. (Only one course from statistics may be applied):
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Biochemistry and Chemistry: | ||
| Fundamentals of Biochemistry | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Biology: | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Physics: | ||
| Mechanics | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 301 | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Electricity and Magnetism, Light, Atomic and Nuclear Physics | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302K | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302L | ||
| Engineering Physics I | ||
| Engineering Physics II | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 303K | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 303L | ||
| Electricity and Magnetism | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 316 | ||
| General Physics I | ||
| General Physics II | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 317K | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 317L | ||
| Statistics: | ||
| Elementary Statistical Methods | ||
| Foundations of Data Analysis | ||
| Elements of Statistics | ||
| Additional upper-division coursework in biochemistry, biology, and chemistry by approval of the undergraduate certificate advisor | ||
Non-Science Major Track
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Two of the following: | 2 | |
| The Effective Health Care Professional | ||
| Thriving in a Collaborative Healthcare Environment | ||
| Introduction to the Health Professions Action Plan | ||
| Complete 18 hours chosen from one of the health professions preparation sequences. The 18 hours may be composed of introductory coursework, advanced coursework, or a mixture of the two | 18 | |
| Pre-dental Preparation | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Electricity and Magnetism, Light, Atomic and Nuclear Physics | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302K | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302L | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Fundamentals of Biochemistry | ||
| Cell Biology | ||
| Genetics | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Pre-medical Preparation | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Electricity and Magnetism, Light, Atomic and Nuclear Physics | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302K | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302L | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Fundamentals of Biochemistry | ||
| Cell Biology | ||
| Genetics | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Pre-occupational Therapy Preparation | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302K | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Genetics | ||
| Human Microscopic and Gross Anatomy | ||
| Human Systems Physiology | ||
| Human Systems Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Pre-optometry Preparation | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302K | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Electricity and Magnetism, Light, Atomic and Nuclear Physics | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302L 1 | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Fundamentals of Biochemistry | ||
| Genetics | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| Human Microscopic and Gross Anatomy | ||
| Human Systems Physiology | ||
| Human Systems Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Pre-physical Therapy Preparation | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302K | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Electricity and Magnetism, Light, Atomic and Nuclear Physics | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302L 1 | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Genetics | ||
| Human Microscopic and Gross Anatomy | ||
| Human Systems Physiology | ||
| Human Systems Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Pre-physician Assistant Preparation: | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| Fundamentals of Nutrition | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Fundamentals of Biochemistry | ||
| Cell Biology | ||
| Genetics | ||
| General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| Molecular Biology | ||
| Human Microscopic and Gross Anatomy | ||
| Human Systems Physiology | ||
| Human Systems Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Pre-pharmacy Preparation: | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302K 1 | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Genetics | ||
| General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| Human Microscopic and Gross Anatomy | ||
| Human Systems Physiology | ||
| Human Systems Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Pre-veterinary Preparation | ||
| Introductory Coursework: | ||
| Introductory Biology I | ||
| Introductory Biology II | ||
| Introductory Laboratory Experiments in Biology | ||
| Introduction to Chemical Practice | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Mechanics, Heat, and Sound | ||
| Laboratory For Physics 302K, 303K, and 317K | ||
| General Physics Technical Course: Electricity and Magnetism, Light, Atomic and Nuclear Physics | ||
| Laboratory for Physics 302L 1 | ||
| Advanced Coursework: | ||
| Fundamentals of Biochemistry | ||
| Genetics | ||
| General Microbiology | ||
| General Microbiology Laboratory | ||
| Molecular Biology | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Introduction to Probability and Statistics | ||
or SDS 320E | Elements of Statistics | |
| --- | ||
| 1. A completed calculus-based physics sequence may substitute for the purpose of earning the certificate. | ||
| 2. Previously completed Molecular Biosciences 326M may substitute. | ||
Quantum Information Science Certificate
A certificate in Quantum Information Science will allow students from a broad range of disciplines to receive formal recognition of their skills, training, and knowledge in the burgeoning field of quantum information science, including quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. Students are required to take two courses in quantum information science. Courses under the Freshman Research Initiative (FRI) program will be open to all students, with consent of the instructor. Supplementary courses may be selected to emphasize different focus areas in physics, mathematics, and computer science.
Admission to the certificate is by application only. The certificate program requires 18 semester hours of coursework with a grade of at least C- in each course. Courses that appear in multiple approved course lists may be used to satisfy only one requirement. The following courses are required:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Six hours selected from the following courses: | 6 | |
| Topics in Computer Science (Topic 1: Quantum Computing I) | ||
| Undergraduate Topics in Computer Science (Topic 1: Quantum Computing II) | ||
| Introduction to Quantum Information Science: Honors | ||
| Twelve hours selected from among the following supplementary courses: | 12 | |
| Quantum Physics I: Foundations | ||
| Quantum Physics II: Atoms and Molecules | ||
| Algorithms and Complexity | ||
or C S 331H | Algorithms and Complexity: Honors | |
| Introduction to Quantum Information Science: Honors | ||
| Matrices and Matrix Calculations | ||
or M 341 | Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory | |
or SDS 329C | Practical Linear Algebra I | |
| Applied Linear Algebra | ||
Independent Research Project. This may be taken, for example, as one of the following courses: 1 | ||
| Individual Study in Physics | ||
| Undergraduate Reading and Research | ||
| Conference Course (Computer-Assisted) | ||
| Please Note: C S 358H Introduction to Quantum Information Science:Honors may only be counted toward one of the certificate requirements. With the approval of the certificate program faculty, other appropriate courses may be counted toward the certificate requirements. | ||
| --- | ||
| 1. The student conducts independent research on some aspect of quantum information science and completes a final report describing their work. The topic must be approved by a university faculty or research staff member and will be conducted under their supervision. | ||
Scientific Computation and Data Sciences Certificate
The Certificate in Scientific Computation and Data Sciences helps undergraduates equip themselves with the mathematical, statistical, and computer-based tools necessary to investigate complex systems in a variety of applications. It is designed to appeal to students across the University in science, engineering, economics, premedicine, sociology, and many other disciplines. The program is administered by the Department of Statistics and Data Sciences. To be admitted, a student must be in good standing in an approved undergraduate degree program and must have earned a grade of at least C- in each certificate course he or she has completed. Students may apply for admission to the program at any point in their undergraduate study; they are encouraged to apply as early as possible so that they can be advised throughout the program.
The certificate consists of 18 hours. Students must complete Mathematics 408D or 408M as a prerequisite. No single course or topic may be used to meet more than one of these requirements. Students must contact the Department of Statistics and Data Sciences in the semester in which they are completing the certificate requirements and graduating.
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| One course in computer programming chosen from the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Computer Programming | ||
| Introduction to Computing | ||
| Elements of Computers and Programming | ||
| Elements of Software Design | ||
| Scientific Computation | ||
| Software Design and Implementation I: Honors | ||
| Programming in FORTRAN and MATLAB | ||
| Introduction to Scientific Programming | ||
| One course in linear algebra, discrete mathematics, or differential equations chosen from the following: | 3 | |
| Matrices and Matrix Calculations | ||
| Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory | ||
| Partial Differential Equations and Applications | ||
| Practical Linear Algebra I | ||
| Two courses in scientific computing, chosen from two of the following areas: | 6 | |
| Numerical Methods | ||
| Introduction to Numerical Methods in Biomedical Engineering | ||
| Numerical Methods in Chemical Engineering and Problem Solving | ||
| Engineering Computation | ||
| Elements of Scientific Computing | ||
| Elements of Scientific Computing: Honors | ||
| Numerical Methods | ||
| Scientific Computation in Numerical Analysis | ||
| Numerical Methods for Applications | ||
| Scientific and Technical Computing | ||
| Statistical Methods | ||
| Engineering Probability and Statistics | ||
| Economic Statistics | ||
| Probability and Random Processes | ||
| Applied Statistics | ||
| Introduction to Mathematical Statistics | ||
| Engineering Statistics | ||
| Honors Statistics | ||
| Elements of Statistics | ||
| Other Computing Topics | ||
| Computational Methods for Biomedical Engineers | ||
| Introduction to Computational Methods in Chemistry | ||
| Elements of Graphics and Visualization | ||
| Elements of Databases | ||
| Advanced Topics in Elements of Computing (Approved topics) | ||
| Principles and Applications of Parallel Programming | ||
| Applied Linear Algebra | ||
| Introduction to Stochastic Processes | ||
| Numerical Methods for Applications | ||
| Partial Differential Equations and Applications | ||
| Topics in Mathematics (Approved topics) | ||
| Methods of Applied Mathematics | ||
| Simulation Modeling | ||
| Database Management | ||
| Quantitative Methods In Neuroscience I | ||
| Parallel Computing for Science and Engineering | ||
| Visualization and Data Analysis for Science and Engineering | ||
| One of the following courses in applied computational science: | 3 | |
| Systems Biology and Bioinformatics | ||
| Principles of Computational Biology | ||
| Biomechanics of Human Movement | ||
| Computational Biomolecular Engineering | ||
| Topics in Biomedical Engineering (Approved topics) | ||
| Advanced Topics in Chemistry (Approved topics) | ||
| Introduction to Computational Fluid Dynamics | ||
| Elements of Graphics and Visualization | ||
| Advanced Topics in Elements of Computing (Approved topics) | ||
| Topics in Decision Science (Topic 16: Optimization Method in Finance) | ||
| Computational Economics | ||
| Topics in Electrical Engineering | ||
| Topics in Finance (Topic 16: Optimization Method in Finance) | ||
| Computational Methods | ||
| Special Topics in the Study of Language (Topic 15: Computational Semantics) | ||
| Topics in Mathematics (Approved topics) | ||
| Mathematical Modeling in Science and Engineering | ||
| Introduction to Computational Physics | ||
| Elements of Data Science | ||
| An independent research course: | 3 or 4 | |
| Undergraduate Research | ||
| Undergraduate Research | ||
Textile Conservation and Museum Studies Certificate
The Certificate in Textile Conservation and Museum Studies helps undergraduates equip themselves with the fiber science, exhibition planning, textile conservation, and museum management skills necessary to conserve textiles in various settings. It is designed to appeal to students across the University in science, history, information science, computational science, merchandising, fiber science and apparel design, and many other disciplines. The program is administered by the Division of Textiles and Apparel in the School of Human Ecology. To be admitted, a student must be in good standing in an approved undergraduate degree program and must have earned a grade of at least C- in each certificate course he or she has completed. Students may apply for admission to the program at any point in their undergraduate study; they are encouraged to apply as early as possible so that they can be advised throughout the program.
The following coursework is required:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| I 301 | Introduction to Informatics | 3 |
| I 320 | Topics in Informatics (any topic) | 3 |
| TXA 205 & TXA 105L | Textiles and Textiles Laboratory | 3 |
| TXA 219C & TXA 119L | Applied Art in Visual Presentation and Applied Art in Visual Presentation Laboratory | 3 |
| TXA 325L | History of Dress and Cultural Change I | 3 |
| TXA 325M | History of Dress and Cultural Change II | 3 |
| TXA 352C | Field Experience in Textile Conservation Internship | 3 |
| TXA 355D | Textiles Artifact Management and Conservation | 3 |
UTeach-Natural Sciences Secondary Teaching Option Certificate
The UTeach-Natural Sciences program offers a secondary teaching option certificate to students who intend to teach at the middle or high school level. UTeach-Natural Sciences prepares students in the College of Natural Sciences, the Jackson School of Geosciences, and Cockrell School of Engineering for middle school or secondary teacher certification in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). However, any students in any major at the University may seek STEM teacher certification through UTeach-Natural Sciences.
This certificate is composed of two separate tracks: a track for undergraduates, and an accelerated track for seniors and degree holders within one year of earning an undergraduate degree.
UTeach Undergraduate Track
The following coursework is required, with grades of at least C-:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| One of the following courses: | 3 | |
| Selected Topics in Biology (Topic 2: Research Methods: UTeach) | ||
| Advanced Topics in Chemistry (Topic 1: Research Methods: UTeach) | ||
| Selected Topics in Physics (Topic 7: Research Methods: UTeach) | ||
| HIS 329U | Perspectives on Science and Mathematics | 3 |
| or PHL 329U | Perspectives on Science and Mathematics | |
| Eighteen hours of professional development coursework consisting of the following: | 18 | |
| Secondary School Teaching Practicum (Topic 3: Secondary School Teaching Practicum: Math or Topic 4: Secondary School Teaching Practicum: Science) | ||
| Knowing and Learning in Math and Science | ||
or UTS 350 | Knowing and Learning in Math and Science | |
| Classroom Interactions | ||
or UTS 355 | Classroom Interactions | |
| Project-Based Instruction | ||
or UTS 360 | Project-Based Instruction | |
| Secondary Teacher Education Preparation: Step 1 and Secondary Teacher Education Preparation: STEP 2 and Student Teaching Seminar | ||
In addition, students must meet the following requirements to graduate and be recommended for certification:
- University grade point average of at least 2.50
- Successful completion of secondary teacher certification and identified discipline specific content courses with a grade of at least C-. Lists of the required content courses and additional certification requirements are available in the UTeach-Natural Sciences office and online.
Science teacher certification: All courses must be majors level.
Biology: At least 24 hours in biology (some biochemistry and neuroscience courses may count), and six hours in each from chemistry, geology, and physics.
Chemistry: At least 24 hours in chemistry, and six hours in each from biology, geology, and physics.
Geology: At least 24 hours in geology, and six hours in each from biology, chemistry, and physics.
Physics: At least 24 hours in physics, and six hours in each from biology, chemistry, and geology.
Mathematics teacher certification: All courses, except Mathematics 315C, must count toward a math degree.
Mathematics: At least 24 hours in math, including Mathematics 315C, 333L, and 375D.
Life Sciences teacher certification: All courses must be majors level.
Life sciences: At least 24 hours in biology, including Integrative Biology 370; Chemistry 301.
Physics and Mathematics and Physical Science (Physics and Chemistry) teacher certification: All courses must be majors level and/or count towards a physics, chemistry and/or mathematics degree.
Physics and Mathematics: At least 24 hours in physics, and Mathematics 315C, 333L and 375D.
Physical Science (Physics and Chemistry): At least 24 hours in physics, and Chemistry 301, 302, 204, 353 and 455.
Computer Science and Computer Science and Math teacher certification: All courses must count toward a computer science and/or math degree.
Computer Science: At least 24 hours of computer science.
Computer Science and Mathematics: At least 24 hours of computer science and Mathematics 315C, 333L, and 375D.
Mathematics, Physical Science, and Engineering certification: All courses must be majors level.
For Engineering majors: Mathematics 315C, 333L, and 375D, Physics 303K and 105M, Physics 303L and 105N, and Chemistry 301.
For Mathematics majors: Physics 301 and 101L, Physics 316 and 116L, Physics 315 and 115L, Chemistry 301, 302, and 204, Engineering Studies 301, Mechanical Engineering 377K.
For Chemistry majors: Mathematics 315C, 427J or 427K, Mathematics 333L, and 375D, Physics 301 and 101L, Physics 316 and Physics 116L 315 and 115L, Engineering Studies 301, and Mechanical Engineering 377K.
3. Successful passing of final teaching portfolio review, conducted by the UTeach Program in Natural Sciences
UTeach Accelerate Track
The UTeach Accelerate track is limited to degree-holders, and seniors with no more than two (2) long semesters left to earn the undergraduate degree. In addition to admission to The University of Texas at Austin, students must be accepted into the UTeach Accelerate program. The application requires the following:
- application form
- resume
- two letters of recommendation
- transcript
- essay
- interview
The following coursework is required, with grades of at least C-:
| Requirements | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| One of the following courses: | 3 | |
| Selected Topics in Biology (Topic 2: Research Methods: UTeach) | ||
| Advanced Topics in Chemistry (Topic 1: Research Methods: UTeach) | ||
| Selected Topics in Physics (Topic 7: Research Methods: UTeach) | ||
| Perspectives on Science and Mathematics | ||
or PHL 329U | Perspectives on Science and Mathematics | |
| Eighteen hours of professional development coursework consisting of the following: | 18 | |
| Secondary Teacher Education Prep: Advanced Steps | ||
| Knowing and Learning in Math and Science | ||
or UTS 350 | Knowing and Learning in Math and Science | |
| Classroom Interactions and Project Based Instruction | ||
| Secondary School Teaching Practicum (Topic 3: Secondary School Teaching Practicum: Math or Topic 4: Secondary School Teaching Practicum: Science) | ||
| Student Teaching Seminar | ||
In addition, students must meet the following requirements to graduate and be recommended for certification:
1. University grade point average of at least 2.50.
2. Successful completion of secondary teacher certification and identified discipline specific content courses with a grade of at least C-. Lists of the required content courses and additional certification requirements are available in the UTeach-Natural Sciences office and online.
3. Pass the T-TESS evaluation protocol.
Special Requirements
Students who successfully complete this certificate may be eligible for recommendation for state teaching certification if they have met all professional development and discipline specific content courses. Students seeking middle grades certification must also complete the following courses with grades of at least C-: Educational Psychology 350G or Psychology 301 and 304; and Curriculum and Instruction 339E.
The courses required for all teacher certifications include a minimum of 30 field-based experience (FBE) hours prior to the clinical teaching experience. All students in the field experience courses (UTeach-Natural Sciences 101, 110, 211, Curriculum and Instruction 365C, 365D, 365E, 665 and 651S) are observed by and received feedback from highly-qualified Professors of Practice and select in-service educators throughout each semester. Students must pass the field experience in order to pass these courses. During clinical teaching (UTeach-Natural Sciences 170, Curriculum and Instruction 651S), supervision and feedback are provided by Professors of Practice, field supervisors, and the cooperating teacher.
Information about additional certification requirements is available from the UTeach-Natural Sciences academic advisor.
State of Texas teacher certification requirements are governed by the Texas Education Agency and are subject to change. Students must adhere to current teacher certification requirements, even if they differ from those listed in the University catalogs.