Middle School Science Content Pre-requisites

Candidates interested in Kentucky teacher certification in Middle Grades Science Education (grades 5-9) first complete a bachelor’s degree with a major in any of the Natural Sciences (such as Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science or Physics), or earn a bachelor’s degree in another field and complete the required prerequisite courses in Science (noted below), prior to entering the teacher certification program at the graduate level. Candidates must apply and be accepted into the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree program to pursue teacher certification. Please review admission requirements for the MAT Middle Grades program at the "How to Apply" tab.

For non-Science majors, the Science courses listed below may be completed at the University of Louisville, or equivalent courses may be completed through another accredited institution. Candidates interested in completing the courses at the University of Louisville may do so as an undergraduate, post-baccalaureate student. Candidates must earn a minimum, overall Science course GPA of 2.50 to be considered for admission and certification. Courses may not be completed on a pass/fail basis.

Candidates are encouraged to request an official transcript evaluation prior to registering for courses. Candidates should complete the transcript evaluation request form and submit the completed form to teacher@louisville.edu along with a copy of college/university transcripts.

Biological Science

  • BIOL 240, Unity of Life (3 credit hours)
  • BIOL 242, Diversity of Life (3 credit hours)
  • BIOL 244, Principles of Biology Laboratory (2 credit hours)
  • BIOL Elective

Physical Science

  • CHEM 201, General Chemistry I & CHEM 207 & CHEM 208, Laboratories (5 credit hours)
  • CHEM 202, General Chemistry II & CHEM 209, Laboratory (4 credit hours)
  • PHYS 111, Elements of Physics (4 credit hours)

Earth Science - select 6 credit hours

  • GEOS 200, The Global Environment
  • GEOS/PHYS 220, Contemporary Issues in Meteorology
  • PHYS 107, Elementary Astronomy & PHYS 108, Laboratory