Natural Sciences BS – General Science Pre-Education Track

Prepare to Teach Across the Sciences

Build your foundation for graduate certification in general science education.

 

The Natural Sciences major offers the General Science Pre-Education Track, created in partnership with the School of Education. This track provides 46 credits of coursework combining core science and education classes to prepare students for the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Science Education – General Science at Pitt.

Completion of these prerequisites does not guarantee acceptance into the School of Education programs.

Program Highlights

  • 46-credit pre-education plan combining chemistry, biology, physics, astronomy, geology, and math with educational coursework
  • Prepares students for the MAT in Science Education (General Science) at Pitt
  • Builds a foundation for careers in teaching and science education
  • Flexible combination of courses to meet student interests and professional goals

Degree Requirements

Students must complete 120 credits (approximately 40 courses) to earn the Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences. At least 24 credits must be upper-division (1000-level). These courses may come from any portion of the degree plan, provided they meet the track and general degree requirements.

For additional requirements outside the major, visit the General Education program page.

Admission Recommendations

  • The School of Education recommends a minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA for all teacher certificate programs. Consult the School of Education Admissions page.
  • Maintaining strong academic standing is important for competitiveness in graduate teacher certification programs.

General Science Track Requirements

46 credits of core courses

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Note: Last offering Fall 2025
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Note: Last offering Summer 2026
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Note: New combined 2-credit lab available as of Spring 2026, replacing BIOSC 0057 and BIOSC 0067. Contact your advisor with questions.
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OR
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Note: This is a 4-credit course with lab included.
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Note: This is a 4-credit course with lab included.
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OR
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OR: another GEOL equivalent
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Formerly: IL 1580 Foundations of Special Education

Resources & Flexible Options

Flexible Learning Options

While many core sciences require in-person labs, select coursework is available online to support scheduling needs.

View Online Courses

Planning Resources

Use the General Science Track Checklist (PDF) to map out your required courses and monitor your progress toward degree completion.

Download Checklist (PDF)

Ready to Get Started?

Prospective students, request more information to learn about admission and begin planning your personalized degree path. Current Pitt students, connect with a CGS advisor.