The Bachelor of Secondary Education with a major in Social Studies is a specialized academic program designed to prepare students for a career in teaching social studies at the secondary education level. This program typically spans four years and combines a strong foundation in education principles with a focus on the content, methods, and pedagogy specific to social studies.

Core Curriculum:

1. Foundations of Education: Courses that provide an overview of the history, philosophy, and sociology of education, helping students understand the broader context of the field.
2. Educational Psychology: Explores psychological principles related to learning, motivation, and development, with a focus on how these principles apply to teaching social studies to secondary students.
3. Pedagogy and Teaching Methods: Covers instructional strategies, assessment techniques, and classroom management strategies tailored to the secondary education level.

Subject-Specific Content:

1. History: In-depth study of historical events, movements, and themes, with a focus on how to teach these concepts effectively to secondary students.
2. Geography: Exploration of geographical concepts, spatial thinking, and global perspectives, preparing educators to teach geography in a way that engages and informs students.
3. Political Science: Examination of political systems, government structures, and civic education, providing the knowledge needed to teach political science to secondary students.
4. Economics: Understanding economic principles, market systems, and global economic issues, with a focus on how to make these concepts accessible to secondary students.

Technology Integration: Many programs include coursework on integrating technology into the social studies curriculum, preparing educators to use digital tools for effective teaching and learning.

Practicum/Student Teaching: The program typically includes a student teaching component, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in actual secondary school classrooms under the supervision of experienced teachers.

Career Opportunities: Upon completion of the Bachelor of Secondary Education majoring in Social Studies, graduates are well-prepared for various roles in the field of secondary education, including:

1. Secondary School Social Studies Teacher: Educators who teach a range of social studies subjects to students in the middle or high school grades, fostering critical thinking and civic engagement.

2. Curriculum Developer: Individuals who design and create instructional materials and curriculum plans for social studies programs in secondary schools.

3. Education Consultant: Professionals who provide expertise and guidance to schools on social studies curriculum development, instructional strategies, and educational best practices.

4. Social Studies Department Chair: Leadership roles within secondary schools, overseeing the social studies department and collaborating with other educators to enhance the overall education program.

5. Civic Education Coordinator: Individuals who focus on developing and implementing civic education programs to promote informed and engaged citizenship among secondary students.

The Bachelor of Secondary Education majoring in Social Studies equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to inspire a deeper understanding of the social sciences and their relevance in the lives of secondary students, fostering critical thinking and preparing them for active citizenship.