Chemistry Education
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Program TypeMajor
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Degrees OfferedB.A., B.S.
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SchoolLiffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, School of Arts & Sciences
What You’ll Learn
You’ll gain a broad knowledge base in the chemical sciences, learn to communicate effectively, and develop strong analytical and critical-thinking skills. You’ll also learn best practices in classroom management to meet the needs of diverse student populations with varied learning styles.
- Benefit from individual attention and mentorship.
You’ll be in small classes alongside world-class faculty who bring professional experience to their classrooms.
- Gain hands-on classroom experience.
You’ll spend 8-14 weeks in a secondary chemistry classroom under the supervision of an assigned cooperating teacher. The experience includes observation, teaching, and the performance of teacher-related responsibilities.
- Prepare for the student populations of the 21st century.
You’ll explore evidence-based teaching strategies for inclusive course design, student-centered pedagogical practices, and facilitating learning across differences — all essential components of effective teaching in our increasingly diverse nation.
Accreditations
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![North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board]()
North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board
All the University of Mary education programs are fully accredited by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board and all CAEP national standards are fully met.
Featured Faculty
Daniel A. Barr, PhD
Interim Chair of Chemistry and Chemistry Education, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Fellow in Catholic Studies
Originally from Philadelphia, PA, I grew up in the Harrisburg area before heading to Arizona State University for my BS degree in biochemistry and PhD in computational biophysical chemistry. My work spans computational, medicinal, physical, and bio-organic/inorganic chemistry, and I teach broadly across the curriculum. I enjoy introducing students to the molecular world in non-majors courses as well as exploring the limits of human knowledge in advanced physical chemistry and biochemistry courses. I find that cultivating a sense of wonder for the deep mysteries of our universe is as important as continuing to advance the frontiers of our disciplinary knowledge.
Krystyna Gorzelska, PhD
Associate Professor of Chemistry
My interest in the natural world goes back to, when, as a child, I hiked and skied with my father in the mountains of my native Poland. On the top of a mountain, with a 360-degree horizon, you have a sense of oneness with the world around you. Years of studies in Poland, Canada, and the USA, and research I conducted in various parts of the world, augmented this basic feeling with the scientific knowledge and appreciation for this great God’s gift to us we call Earth. Science does not operate in a vacuum; it relates to everything, helping us understand rules that govern the natural world around us. I try to use my personal and professional experiences to put what I’m teaching in a relevant context and, thus, make it more meaningful for my students. Faith and Reason are the most precious possessions. At the University of Mary our students are fortunate to be able to pursue both.
Carmen Cain, PhD
Assistant Professor of Education, Director of Secondary Education Program, Director of Licensure Track Program
Having been an educator for over 20 years now, my first priority at the University of Mary is to facilitate student learning so teacher-candidates are prepared for the joys and challenges of their own classroom. I enjoy collaborating with an excellent faculty to provide our students with the best education possible.
