Practical field training is required as part of the public health curriculum and student teaching is a required part of the health education curriculum. Students are advised that they are responsible for their own transportation to and from the training facilities and all costs associated with these activities.
Graduates with a B.S.Ed. in health education are qualified to apply for teacher certification and to teach in public or private schools. Those completing the 6-12 entitlement program leading to certification are eligible to be certified to teach grades 6-12. In addition to teaching within the major, graduates of this program may also be qualified to teach other academic areas based on approved minors leading to endorsements. Approved minors extend professional competencies while allowing flexible teaching options for middle and secondary schools.
Students are encouraged to complete an endorsement or a recognized minor in an area such as biology, English, foreign language (French, German, or Spanish), science, mathematics, physical education, psychology, or a social science. They are also encouraged to seek middle grades endorsement. Additional course work may be necessary.
The B.S.Ed. in health education is the initial professional degree for certified health educators. Primary emphasis is placed on development of the knowledge, concepts, clinical experiences, and professional competencies required of a health education teacher in public and private schools.
Successful completion of the Illinois Certification Testing System (ICTS) Basic Skills Test is required for entry into the health education teacher certification program. The test bulletins and applications are available at the Office of Testing Services and in the public health and health education programs office. Students who intend to enter a teacher certification program need to take the ICTS Basic Skills Test at the earliest possible date.
Students in the B.S.Ed. degree program must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50.
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