Department of Teaching & Learning

• About Teaching & Learning
• Academic Programs
• Undergraduate
• Master's
• Doctoral
• Certification
• Course Listing
• Academic Advising
• Clinical Experiences
• Dispositions
• Policies & Procedures
• Research/Grants
• News & Events
• TLRN A-Z Index
• Contact Us
• College Home
• Teaching & Learning Home

Science, Social Studies and Environmental Education Integration

The specialization in science, social studies and environmental education integration focuses on the student’s current and future role to provide leadership in formal and non-formal instruction, curriculum development, and teacher education. The program provides students with a conceptual understanding of curriculum and instruction and also permits them to focus on the interdisciplinary field of science, social studies and environmental education.

Requirements

Science, Social Studies and Environmental Education Integration Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does it take to complete the doctoral program?
• Where do classes meet?
• When should I decide on my dissertation?
• Do I have to study integration across several subjects?
• Will I be able to take courses in different subject areas?
• Who will be my advisor ?
• Who can I talk to in order to decide if this program is right for me?

How long does it take to complete the doctoral program?

That depends most on whether you are taking classes full time or part time. There are 48 required credits, plus the dissertation. Full time students generally take 9 credits per semester, which means is it possible to finish in as little as two years. If you are taking just one class per semester, it can take up to six years.

Back to top

Where do classes meet?

Classes may be offerered at any of the NIU campuses (Dekalb, Rockford, Hoffman Estates, and Naperville), and locations will vary each semester. Maps of NIU and satellite campuses is available online.

Back to top

When should I decide on my dissertation?

You will work with your academic advisor to develop your dissertation topic. Your beginning coursework will also help you decide on your topic; you are not expected to enter the program knowing your dissertation topic.

Back to top

Do I have to study integration across science, social studies and environmental education?

No. You can focus on one of the subject areas or integration of all three.

Back to top

Will I be able to take courses in different subject areas?

Yes. As part of the 48 required credit courses, 0-15 credits are allotted for cognates. These are elective classes to broaden your knowledge base. They can be taken in any department in the University.

Back to top

Who will be my advisor?

You will be assigned an advisor upon admission to the doctoral program. Your advisor will be a faculty member who can guide you in developing a program of study. It is possible to change advisors later in the program.

Back to top

Who can I talk to in order to decide if this program is right for me?

If you would like further information about the program, please contact the appropriate faculty member.

Back to top