What you'll learn studying Natural Science at UW-Platteville

The natural science minor, available to students pursuing majors in University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s School of Education, is designed to provide future educators with a deeper understanding of the natural world. Natural science courses are offered through the Department of Environmental Sciences and Society and cover a vast array of topics, including astronomy, biology, geology, climate and weather patterns, physics, chemistry, and geography.

Natural science education students complete between 21 and 28 required credits of science coursework in astronomy, biology, chemistry, geosciences, and physics, as well as a two-semester sequence in one area of science.

In addition to traditional lectures, natural science classes include hands-on labs, making a natural science degree a great addition to an education major for anyone interested in teaching science at the elementary, middle, or high school level.

Careers in Natural Science

Most students who pursue minors in natural science at UW-Platteville do so because they want to work as teachers or tutors, helping foster a love of science in young minds. Studying natural science will also prepare you to work in a variety of other roles which are not directly related to education.

Some of the careers your education in natural sciences will prepare you to pursue include:

  • Astronomy teacher
  • Biology teacher
  • Chemistry teacher
  • Geography teacher
  • Geology teacher
  • Elementary science teacher
  • High school science teacher
  • Middle school science teacher
  • Physics teacher
  • Science tutor

Whether you choose to work in a public or private school as a science teacher; private tutor; or in a career with a federal, state, or local government agency, you will graduate with the foundational knowledge and skills you need to succeed.

Discover by doing

UW-Platteville education students pursuing minors in natural science have numerous opportunities to learn, both inside and outside of the classroom. You can conduct research, do internships, and attend university events, which will deepen your understanding of science and prepare you to be a more effective teacher after graduation.


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