Majors, Minors & Programs

Early elementary teachers shape the future. Our bachelor of science in Early Elementary Education prepares you to do just that, guided by professors who teach the way you want to teach: with knowledge and compassion. The skills students learn in early childhood are critical for success in elementary school — and teachers play an essential role during this time of growth and exploration. 

Students in today’s elementary schools have a wide range of needs. Their teachers must be prepared to help all children excel. 

In this dual program at York College, you’ll complete a double major in Early Elementary Education and Special Education. As you learn about educational theory and gain hands-on practice, you’ll develop an appreciation for the differences your future students may bring to the classroom. And you’ll build the skills needed to support each of them, including those with special needs and English language learners. 

With experience in these two complementary areas of education, you’ll be highly competitive in the job market upon graduation. The Early Elementary/Special Education program will also prepare you for professional teacher certification in both regular education (PreK-grade 4) and special education (PreK-grade 12).

As a Middle Level Education major at York College, you graduate professionally certified to teach grades 4-8 and have the opportunity to specialize in a core subject: English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, or Science. Relationships with faculty and experience working in real schools establish your confidence in educating and managing your own classroom.

Broaden your resume with a background in both general education for middle school students and special education. Middle Level majors can study one of four concentration areas: English/Language Arts, Math, Science, or Social Studies. This degree prepares students for professional teacher certification in both middle level education (grades 4-8) and special education (PreK-grade 12).

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Secondary Education Biology degree program at York College of Pennsylvania prepares you to become a certified biology teacher through Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)-approved coursework and rich student teaching experiences.

At York College, we believe a great biology teacher must have a well-rounded background in other scientific disciplines and a solid understanding of teaching and leading a classroom. Secondary Education Biology majors establish these solid foundations and receive personalized support to become certified teachers.

York is home to a community of expert educators, industry leaders, and driven students who support your journey to complete licensure requirements, pass certification exams, and become a biology teacher.

Open up the world of literature and writing to students as a secondary education English teacher. Just as you fell in love with reading the classics, writing a short story, or editing papers, you can similarly help middle and high schoolers develop as writers and critical readers.

You’ll study literature, writing, and film, ranging from classical to contemporary sources and taught by caring faculty. We balance that with extensive training in the best teaching methods for language study, reading, literature, writing, listening, and speaking. Field experience and student teaching help round out your education with real world experience. This degree prepares students for professional teacher certification in grades 7-12.

Always questioning. Always learning. That’s the approach you’ll need to take to become an educator for the next wave of young scientists. We encourage our students to join clubs and professional organizations, attend science and educational conferences, read science journals and more — our program is much more than just what you learn in class.

Help effectively guide middle and higher schoolers through this core academic subject, including algebra, geometry, and calculus. This degree prepares students for professional teacher certification in grades 7-12.

Courses in the Special Education program are designed to facilitate an understanding and appreciation of individual learner differences so enrolled students can best support the development and academic achievement of learners with disabilities in special education settings, both separate and inclusive. Students enrolled in the Special Education program become transformative classroom teachers able to support diverse populations of learners.