Newark Teacher Residency Program teacher in classroom

Science Teaching Program

The CSAM Science Teaching Program at Montclair State University supports students preparing to be the next generation of science educators by providing a strong foundation in both science and teaching. We are working to address the national shortage of science teachers by building a supportive and engaging pathway for students pursuing science teacher careers in biology, chemistry, earth science, and physics.

Through mentorship, experiential learning, academic support, and professional development, we help students develop the skills, confidence, and real-world experience needed to excel in the classroom. The Science Teaching Program is designed to support students from their first year through certification, fostering a community of future science teachers committed to inspiring and educating the next generation.

When pre-service science teachers are inducted into the teaching profession as in-service teachers, we continue to support them through a career-spanning program of professional development in the CSAM Professional Resources in Science and Mathematics (PRISM) center.

Program Goals

Support Student Success – Provide students in the program with mentoring from peers and in-service science teachers to guide them through their journey.
Enhance Experiential Learning – Offer hands-on teaching experiences, internships, and research opportunities.
Strengthen Professional Development – Connect students with PRISM teaching workshops, PRAXIS exam preparation, and opportunities to network with in-service teachers and school districts.

Build a Science Teaching Community – Provide a home for collaboration, engagement, and long-term career support for aspiring science educators.
Join us and become part of a community dedicated to shaping the future of science education!

The future of science depends on the educators who inspire and prepare the next generation of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers. Great scientific minds like Newton, Einstein, Curie, and Darwin didn’t develop in isolation; they had teachers who sparked their curiosity and mentors who helped them rise to their potential. In the CSAM Science Teaching Program, we equip future science teachers with the skills, experiences, and support they need to ignite that same passion in their students.

Scott Kight, Director, CSAM Science Teaching Program

How to Apply

Eligibility Requirements

  • Students must be in good academic standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA overall and in their major (except for first semester freshmen, who do not have established GPAs)
  • Applicants will complete an application form, which includes:
    • written responses about their interest in exploring teaching as a profession
    • any relevant experiences that have shaped their desire to become educators
    • their long-term career goals in science education

This process ensures that students entering the program are committed to developing their teaching skills, engaging in experiential learning, and are seriously considering a successful career in science education.

Contact The Science Teaching Program

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