BEd (Hons) in Science Education, University College Cork

Cork, Ulster

48 Months

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About this course

The Science Education degree at UCC is a four-year full-time undergraduate program designed to prepare students as qualified science teachers. It follows a concurrent model of teacher training, meaning students study both science and education throughout the course. The program aims to enable graduates to teach two science subjects to Leaving Certificate standard and includes practical teaching experience through School Placement. Tuition takes place mainly in UCC's Eureka Centre and SEFS laboratories, with modules covering core science and education principles. On graduation, students are eligible to register with the Teaching Council as fully qualified science teachers, equipped with comprehensive subject knowledge and pedagogical skills.

Why this course is highly recommended

Graduates of UCC’s Science Education program are highly valued as they gain both subject expertise and practical teaching experience over four years. The program’s strong focus on teaching placement, using state-of-the-art facilities like the Eureka Centre, prepares students for successful careers in secondary education. Recent graduates have secured roles as science teachers, inspectors, researchers, and educators, demonstrating the course’s effectiveness in launching dynamic teaching careers.

Specialisation

Students select one of five Science Education routes at the start of the program, focusing on pairs of science subjects: Biology + Chemistry, Physics + Mathematics, Computer Science + Mathematics, Chemistry + Mathematics, or Computer Science + Chemistry. Each route is designed to develop deep expertise in the chosen subjects while integrating pedagogical skills essential for teaching at secondary level.

Course fees

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1st year tuition fees

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need at least six subjects in their Leaving Certificate, with specific grade minimums: H4 in one subject, H5 in another, and O6/H7 in four subjects including Irish and English. For routes involving Mathematics, a minimum grade of H3 in Math is required. Candidates must meet these and additional criteria, with some routes requiring proficiency in science subjects and English language competency for non-native speakers.

Career prospects

Graduates are in high demand across Ireland and abroad, primarily as secondary school science teachers. The comprehensive training, including classroom placement, prepares graduates for careers in education, science inspection, research, or academia in science education. The program’s strong practical components make graduates attractive to schools seeking enthusiastic and well-trained science teachers.

FAQs

What subjects can I teach after completing this program?

You will be qualified to teach two science subjects to Leaving Certificate standard, based on your chosen route.

What are the entry requirements for the course?

Applicants need six subjects with specific grade minimums, including H4 in one subject, H5 in another, and O6/H7 in four subjects. Specific math and science subject requirements apply for certain routes.