Social Sciences With a Concentration In Teacher Education, B.A.
The Social Sciences Teacher Education program at Governors State University provides a broad, interdisciplinary foundation in fields such as history, political science, economics, geography, and sociology. Students develop a comprehensive understanding of how social systems, cultures, and institutions shape human experience while learning to analyze complex social issues and communicate them effectively.
In addition to building content expertise, the program integrates professional education coursework and field experiences that prepare students for teaching in middle and high school settings. Students can specialize in multiple social science areas, gaining flexibility in what they are qualified to teach.
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences with a Concentration in Teacher Education at Governors State University prepares students to teach secondary social studies through interdisciplinary coursework and professional licensure preparation. The program leads to licensure and emphasizes real-world classroom preparation, equipping graduates to foster critical thinking, civic engagement, and global awareness in their future students.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Social Sciences Teacher Education program are prepared for careers in education and related fields that require strong analytical, communication, and instructional skills. The program also supports advancement into educational leadership or graduate study.
- High School Social Studies Teacher – $65,000 (median)
- Middle School Social Studies Teacher – $64,000 (median)
- Curriculum and Instruction Specialist – $66,000 (median)
- Instructional Coordinator – $74,000 (median)
- Educational Program Coordinator – $60,000–$80,000
- Education Policy Analyst – $65,000–$95,000
What You'll Study
Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.
How to Apply
You'll need certain documents and meet certain requirements in order to apply. Read about them on our admissions pages.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Governors State University offers a range of financial aid options to help undergraduate students make their degree more affordable, including federal, state, institutional, and private funding. To get started, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using GovState's school code (009145). The FAFSA determines eligibility for grants, loans, work-study programs, and many scholarship opportunities.
Grants, including the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), are awarded based on financial need and do not require repayment. Federal Direct Loans provide borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest after graduation.
Get Involved
Students in the Social Sciences Teacher Education program can deepen their preparation for teaching through professional organizations, service opportunities, and educational leadership activities.
Professional & Academic Organizations
National Council for the Social Studies
American Historical Association
American Political Science Association
Campus & Community Engagement
- Join a student education association or social sciences student organization to connect with peers preparing for teaching careers.
- Participate in education workshops, speaker events, and civic engagement initiatives hosted by faculty and community partners.
- Volunteer with youth programs, tutoring initiatives, or community education projects to gain experience working with diverse learners.
- Complete field placements and student teaching experiences in regional schools to build classroom confidence and professional networks.
Highlighted Faculty
Contact Us
- Division of Arts and Letters
- College of Arts and Sciences, E2578
- Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 60484
- 708.534.4101
- casinfo@govst.edu