The 120-credit dual certification Bachelor of Science program in Adolescence Education: Social Studies and Students with Disabilities prepares a new generation of social studies teachers to cultivate and enhance student success. This program equips candidates with the skills, knowledge and foundation to motivate middle and high school students at various skill levels to learn the fundamentals of history, economics, politics and culture. This program includes a minimum of 150 hours of field experiences in middle and high school, typically completed within required fieldwork. Candidates also complete supervised practice teaching in actual classrooms at two grade levels, allowing them to observe certified teachers, interact with students, and understand the adolescent mindset as it relates to understanding issues related to social issues. Candidates who successfully complete this bachelor's programs and pass all required NYS teacher certification exams will be eligible for two initial certifications when the BS is awarded. This program is jointly offered between the Teaching and Learning Department and the Social Sciences Department.

As a social studies education major, candidates learn how to help students in grades 7 to 12 gain knowledge of major historical eras; learn how governments work; how people organize their economies; the diversity of human cultures found around the world; and how people use natural and human resources. Social studies courses in this program examine significant economic, political, cultural and religious aspects of civilizations from the ancient period to the present. The scope is global, with a focus on the development of American democracy, of how diverse regions of the world have contributed to world history, and the growing interdependence of modern nations. Candidates are introduced to core issues found in the social science disciplines of anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, and sociology. Key concepts include industrialization, nationalism, socialism, liberalism, imperialism, fascism, communism and globalization.

This program qualifies candidates to pursue two initial teaching certifications. In pursuing these two certifications, candidates examine theories of adolescent development, motivation, and learning for students who are in 7th to 12th grades. They master the skills needed to encourage students to learn new material and to take responsibility for themselves and one another. As candidates work toward these certifications, they gain an understanding and appreciation of the social sciences, their major area of study. Candidates also acquire techniques to assess and evaluate a child's intellectual and social development and learn the basic principles of classroom management for a diverse student population. 

After candidates complete all degree requirements, successfully pass New York State licensure tests and have completed all required teacher certification workshops, they will apply for and be awarded Initial teaching certification by the New York State Department of Education (NYSED) in Adolescence Education: English (grades 7-12) and in Students with Disabilities, (All Grades).