Elementary Science Education
The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Science Education at METU is an undergraduate program designed to prepare educators capable of teaching science at the primary school level. The curriculum combines foundational science courses — covering general and basic sciences — with pedagogical training, educational theory, and teaching methodology. Students learn both scientific content and effective teaching strategies, enabling them to become qualified science teachers for young learners, capable of fostering scientific literacy and curiosity from early ages.
Based in Ankara, the program offers a blend of rigorous scientific education and practical training in pedagogy and education methods. With access to science labs, educational resources, and a balanced curriculum, students develop both subject-matter knowledge and teaching skills. The program aims to produce competent science educators ready to contribute to primary education and support science teaching in schools.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Elementary Science Education
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Ankara
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Science Education, General Science, Pedagogy, Teaching Methods, Primary-Level Science Teaching
- Admission modus: Regular undergraduate admissions
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Science & Education Basics
- Basic Sciences & General Science Foundations
- Mathematics / Supporting Mathematics Courses
- Introduction to Education / Foundations of Teaching
- General/Foundation Courses & Academic English
Semester 2 – Science Foundations & Educational Psychology
- General Science courses (life or physical science basics)
- Basic Mathematics or Supporting Math Courses
- Educational Psychology / Fundamentals of Learning & Development
- Supporting / Elective Courses
Semester 3 – Core Science Content & Pedagogical Methods I
- Subject-specific science courses (as per curriculum)
- Laboratory or Practical Science Courses
- Didactics of Science Education I (teaching methods, curriculum design for science)
- Educational Technology or IT in Education Courses
- Supporting / Elective Courses
Semester 4 – Intermediate Science Courses & Pedagogy II
- Further science course work (biology, chemistry, physics or integrated science)
- Science Laboratory / Practical Work
- Didactics of Science Education II (assessment, curriculum planning, teaching strategies)
- Educational Research / Introduction to Methods in Education
Semester 5 – Applied Science Education & Classroom Practice I
- Science Education Methods & Curriculum Development
- Laboratory / Practical Science & Teaching Practice Courses
- Classroom Management & Teaching Skills for Primary Education
- Elective or Supporting Courses
Semester 6 – Science Education & Special Topics
- Advanced science courses (as per specialization)
- Environmental Education or Interdisciplinary Science Courses
- Instructional Methods & Educational Psychology for Young Learners
- Elective / Supporting Courses
Semester 7 – Practicum & Professional Practice
- Teaching Practicum I (in-school teaching practice)
- Elective Courses (specialization in science education, pedagogy, child development, etc.)
- Fieldwork or Educational Project (if available)
Semester 8 – Graduation Internship & Final Preparation
- Teaching Practicum II (internship or final practice)
- Curriculum Development Project or Capstone Science Education Project
- Final Electives as per student interest
- Graduation preparation and readiness for professional teaching career
Career Opportunities
Graduates are qualified to work as primary school science teachers in public or private schools, early science educators, education consultants, or continue with graduate studies in education or science fields. They may work in curriculum development, educational research, science outreach programs, child education centers, or related institutions that require a combination of scientific knowledge and pedagogical competence.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Elementary Science Education at METU offers a unique combination of rigorous science education and practical pedagogical training — preparing educators who are scientifically literate and pedagogically skilled. The program enables students to both master foundational science content and learn how to teach it effectively to young learners.
If you are passionate about science and education, want to contribute to primary-level teaching, and aim to shape young minds with scientific knowledge and curiosity, this program is a strong choice.
Contact Information
Middle East Technical University – Department of Elementary Science Education
Dumlupınar Boulevard No:1, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1234
Email: ese@metu.edu.tr
Student Affairs Office – Elementary Science Education Department
Faculty of Education, METU
06800 Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1235
Email: ese-undergrad@metu.edu.tr
International Office – Middle East Technical University
METU Campus, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1060
Email: ico@metu.edu.tr
