Social Science History (Teaching) Program 

WSU is committed to offering an intensive program designed to prepare teachers for today’s challenges in education. 

Aligning with the Minnesota Board of Education requirements, WSU’s Bachelor of Teaching (BT) degree in social science history education requires students to take a broad range of classes in the social sciences. Many of these classes also fulfill our general education requirements. 

Along with Licensing Core Requirements, students in this major can emphasize (specialize) in: 

• Economics 
• Geography 
• History 
• Political science
• Sociology 

Students in this major also work with the College of Education to learn up-to-date pedagogical and curricular practices. Through the Social Science History (Teaching) program and the College of Education, students are given several field experience opportunities to observe and practice social studies in a secondary school setting.

A Major Map (PDF) is available to help students plan to complete their major coursework in four years. We recommend meeting with your advisor to go over course selections before registration each semester to make sure you stay on track. 

Admission Requirements

During the first year of the program, students will take general education and core social science courses. 

Students must be admitted to the College of Education to continue the professional education sequence. 

Careers in Social Studies

Social Studies teachers have a great responsibility. Your professional purpose is to educate and enlighten students in the areas of political science, history, geography, economics, and behavioral sciences. 

Students who enter this program need to show a clear desire to work with young people as a teacher in the secondary setting. The program prepares teachers entering the social studies field in grades 5-12, as well as those seeking a variety of other careers. 

Increasingly, businesses are seeking employees with an understanding of history, civics, and economics, paired with the ability to work in a team setting and use skills in leadership, organization, and communication.