Social Studies Teaching

Preparing you for a social studies teaching license

Are you passionate about shaping the minds of future generations? The social studies teaching program at the University of Indianapolis offers an exceptional pathway to a fulfilling career in education.

Advantages

  • Comprehensive Content: The curriculum provides a deep understanding of core subjects, including history, geography, economics, and political science.

  • Dual Focus: The program emphasizes both strong content knowledge and effective teaching methodologies to prepare highly sought-after educators.

  • Practical Teaching Experience: Students gain invaluable, hands-on learning opportunities through placements in local schools.

  • Skill Development: These real-world experiences help students develop essential skills like effective teaching strategies and classroom management.

  • Inspiring Educators: The ultimate goal is to inspire and educate young minds, preparing graduates for rewarding careers in education.

  • Practical Immersion: This major combines historical content of the traditional major with the practical immersion in secondary education.
  • Adviser Support: Students have two academic advisers-one in the History & Political Science Department and one in the Teacher Education Department.
  • colleges of distinction 2025-2026
  • 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • ranked as a national university by u.s. news and world report
Julie Doty '11
Social Studies Teaching

UIndy greatly helped me prepare for my career as a high school social studies teacher. The curriculum helped me gain a wide range of knowledge about both world and U.S. history and, even more importantly, helped me become a critical thinker. I use this to help my students critically analyze our world and ask questions about why our world is the way it is. I am very appreciative of my time at UIndy that helped lay the important foundation of my teaching career.

Ensuring Classroom-ready Graduates

One of the standout features of our social studies teaching program is our commitment to preparing students for the licensure process. We offer extensive support and resources to help students successfully pass the required exams and obtain their teaching licenses. Our graduates leave UIndy not only with a degree but also with the credentials needed to start their teaching careers immediately. This thorough preparation sets our program apart and ensures our graduates are classroom-ready from day one.

professor teaching in class in front of students

Building Your Educational Career

UIndy offers numerous opportunities for professional development and networking. Students can join education-focused organizations, attend conferences, and participate in workshops that enhance their skills and broaden their professional networks. These opportunities are designed to help students stay informed about the latest developments in education and connect with other professionals in the field.

students having a discussion in class

Become a Transformative Educator at UIndy 

Choosing to pursue your degree in social studies teaching at the University of Indianapolis means joining a community committed to educational excellence and innovation. Our graduates are well-prepared to make a positive impact in the classroom and beyond, fostering a love of learning and critical thinking in their students. Start your journey towards a rewarding career in social studies education with us and become a transformative educator.

young man with glasses talking in class

Curriculum Guides

These curriculum guides outline the classes you'll need to take as a social studies teaching major. The general education curriculum guide lists your class options and requirements to fulfill UIndy's general education requirements, while the social studies teaching curriculum guide lists the classes needed to major in social studies teaching. You'll need to look at both guides to get a complete picture of what classes you'll take at UIndy.

Eric Spears '22
Social Studies Teaching

Growing up, I always wanted to be a social studies teacher. UIndy helped prepare me for my career; I feel that UIndy gave me an advantage to thrive in social studies teaching.