2024-25 Academic Catalog
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Undergraduate Information and Degree Requirements

This section contains the following information:

The University of Northern Iowa offers degrees at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Graduate information is provided in the Graduate Degree Requirements, and specific graduate major program requirements are listed within the Program Requirements section by department. At the undergraduate level, the University of Northern Iowa offers six traditional baccalaureate degrees: the Bachelor of Arts, the Bachelor of Fine Arts, the Bachelor of Music, the Bachelor of Science, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and the Bachelor of Social Work. The university also offers two additional baccalaureate degrees: the external degree of Bachelor of Liberal Studies (B.L.S.) which provides a unique path to a four-year degree; and the the Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) which offers educational opportunities to those students who have completed an A.A.S. degree and are now seeking to complete a four-year degree. Details for both of these degree programs are provided in this University Catalog. These students are often place-bound and need to take online classes while remaining a full-time employee. Major goals in the programs leading to these degrees are the advancement of humane learning and the preparation of all students to cope intelligently, effectively, and reasonably with the complex and changing conditions of life in modern society. To attain these goals, while at the university, students are expected to make significant progress toward:

1.        understanding themselves and the society in which they live,
2.        developing the ability to read, write, and speak their own language well and to appreciate its literature,
3.        gaining an acquaintance with the literature of another language and the culture of its people, preferably in the original, but certainly through the study of translations,
4.        securing a thorough grounding in the history and cultural traditions of the modern world with a special sympathetic understanding for the economic, social, and political problems of our time,
5.        acquiring an understanding of the principles and methods of the natural sciences and mathematics and the part they play in modern society,
6.        developing the ability to perceive the values of the arts and derive an enjoyment from them,
7.        acquiring a knowledge of how to care for their own health and physical environment and to take an intelligent interest in the health and welfare of the community in which they live, and
8.        growing in the desire to secure knowledge.

To achieve these ends, students are obliged to take a variety of courses drawn from among the arts, humanities, philosophy, mathematics, and language, and from among the biological, physical, and social sciences. Concentration in a major field enables students to engage in intensive study, to think for themselves, and to exercise discriminating judgment. It prepares the student for more advanced work if they decide to go on to graduate school, or for immediate employment. This emphasis on the academic program is not to exclude the contributions made by other parts of the university life to the substantial development of a student's personality - social and athletic activities, public speaking and dramatic arts, music, art, public affairs, or other programs.

The desired result of these degree programs is not an individual who conforms to society as it is or sees their own vocation within the narrow confines of the day-to-day occupation, but rather a person enriched in mind and spirit and so stimulated that this person will seek with eagerness to contribute to the benefit of the world in which they live. Such a program is desirable for all students whatever their future professions may be.

All credit hours stated in this catalog, for a program, assume students have appropriate preparatory course work. If a student's preparation is inadequate, additional course work may be necessary and may extend the length of the program and the time required to complete graduation requirements.

For those who plan to become teachers, additional work is required in professional education. This work seeks to enhance the student's interest in and commitment to teaching, to instill loyalty toward the profession, and to encourage the desire for continuous professional growth. The student acquires the skills, techniques, and understanding necessary to good teaching by studying current knowledge concerning the physical, emotional, and mental growth of children and youth, the ways that they learn, and methods for guiding them to reach full potential. As part of her/his preparation, the student explores the mutual relationships and responsibilities of the teacher, the school, and the community.

The prospective teacher must also spend a significant part of her/his time in the area of learning chosen for concentration. The student's mastery of the subject matter of this area, its closely-related fields, and the skills and professional dispositions needed to present it effectively are essential aspects of successful teaching.

The teacher preparation program requires more hours to complete than many of the other programs in order to include the necessary professional work and to approximate, as far as possible in a four-year period, the other major goals previously listed. Students completing the teacher preparation program are strongly encouraged to continue their education beyond the bachelor's degree.

Declaration of Major

Academic Advisement Report

The choice of major should be made as early as possible in the student's university career in order to complete the program and fulfill requirements for graduation. The major requirements for degree completion are tied to the catalog year the major is declared. The student is assigned an advisor at orientation based on the major indicated at that time. Those students who are pre-majors, and students adding or changing a major, indicate this to the major department on a Declaration of Curriculum form and a new advisor is assigned. The form is filed with the Office of the Registrar.

Degree-seeking, first baccalaureate students are eligible for an Academic Advisement Report. This is prepared by the Office of the Registrar and made available to the student in their Student Center. Changes in the student's declared major or minor are reflected on the Academic Advisement Report upon processing.

Undergraduate Curricula

Bachelor of Arts Degree

Two programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree are available.

A. Bachelor of Arts - Teaching Program - 120 semester hours

Note: Programs requiring more than 120 semester hours to graduate (see major requirements) are identified and may include up to 144 semester hours.

On this program students are prepared as:

  1. Secondary teachers of art, business, biology, chemistry, communications, earth science, english, industrial arts, mathematics, music, physical education, physics, science, social science subjects (economics, history, etc.), spanish, and speech.
  2. Special teachers of art, industrial arts, music, physical education, special education, and speech.
  3. Early childhood and elementary teachers (kindergarten through sixth grade).
  4. Middle level education teachers in various areas of instruction.

B. Bachelor of Arts - 120 semester hours

Note: Programs requiring more than 120 semester hours (see major requirements) are identified.

On this program students are prepared in the following areas:

1. Liberal Arts - accounting, applied human sciences, art, biology, business, chemistry and biochemistry, communications, computer science, criminology, economics, English, finance, health, leisure services, management, marketing, mathematics, music, philosophy, physical education, physics, psychology, spanish, speech, social science, social work, science, technology, and theatre.

2. Program for Registered Nurses

A student certified or licensed as a registered nurse (R.N.) may be recommended for a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in General Studies in accordance with the following provisions:

  1. A student who has taken the work required for certification or licensure, including the successful completion of required agency examinations, will have 34-45 semester hours accepted for transfer to apply on the bachelor's degree. Such work may have been earned in a two-year associate degree program or in an approved hospital diploma program.
    These hours of transfer work may be affected by a general university requirement that a maximum of 65 semester hours may be accepted from a two-year institution. The 34-45 semester hours of transfer credit for R.N. certification is considered part of this limit. Thus, a student who has earned more than 20 semester hours of other two-year college credit may not be able to use all of the nursing credits for graduation requirements. Such individuals should consult the Director of Admissions concerning the application of this requirement in their situation.
  2. Eleven of the total number of units accepted as advanced standing for R.N. certification are applied to UNIFI/General Education requirements. Students will be held to courses required in the remaining UNIFI categories.
  3. The student shall complete a minimum of 15 hours of upper-level courses from each of two of the four colleges for a total of 30 hours. The student's program will be planned in consultation with the Individual Studies Coordinator.
     As an alternative to item 3, the student may complete the requirements for a major offered by any department and graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in the chosen major.
  4. A student may not earn duplicate credit for courses taken at another institution and judged to be equivalent.
  5. The student shall earn enough credit in elective courses to have a total of 120 hours of academic credit.
  6. This program is under the jurisdiction and general supervision of Individual Studies. Students entering this program will confer with the Individual Studies Coordinator.
    This degree program is not recommended for students intending to work in nursing education at the collegiate level, in such areas as public health, or psychiatric nursing, nor those for whom the primary intention is graduate work in nursing.

3. Joint Program

Students interested in one of the following professional programs may complete the basic work on the University of Northern Iowa campus and transfer back to UNI a year's credit from the professional school to complete the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology at UNI:

  • Chiropractic
  • Medical Laboratory Sciences
  • Nursing 3+1
  • Doctor of Podiatric Medicine

For more information, see the Department of Biology.

C. Other Programs

1. Pre-professional 

Guide sheets are available to assist a student with considering courses at UNI in preparation for pursing further schooling in the areas of chiropractic, dentistry, medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant, podiatry, and veterinary medicine. These program guides may be requested from the Office of Admissions or by visiting the website https://chas.uni.edu/biology and clicking on Pre-health Programs.  Please note that these are recommendations only.  A student should contact an institution directly or visit their web site for complete and current course and/or admission requirements.

2. Cooperative Programs

1. The University of Northern Iowa offers prerequisite coursework for students planning to apply for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Allen College, Waterloo, IA or at other nursing programs.  Allen College has a cooperative agreement with UNI for students admitted into the nursing program. 

2.  Dual degree program in Nursing in cooperation with Allen College in Waterloo, IA.  The first three-years of required coursework in sciences and liberal arts are completed at UNI.  The student then will complete nursing courses through the accelerated program at Allen College.  When finished, a student will have a Bachelor of Nursing from Allen College and either a bachelor’s degree in Biology or in Individual Studies – Health Sciences.

3. The University of Northern Iowa offers prerequisite coursework for students planning to apply for allied health programs at Allen College, Waterloo, IA in Diagnostic Medical Sonography  and Medical Laboratory Science. In addition, Allen College has a cooperative agreement with UNI for students admitted into the radiography program.

4. Dual degree program in Medical Laboratory Sciences in cooperation with Allen College in Waterloo, IA and St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, IA.  The first three-years of required coursework in sciences and liberal arts are completed at UNI. During the fourth year, medical technology courses are finished at either Allen College or St. Luke’s Hospital. When finished, Allen College students will earn a bachelor's degree from UNI and a bachelor of Health Sciences from Allen College.  St. Luke's graduates will earn a bachelor's degree from UNI and a Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science from St. Luke's College-Unity Point.

5. Dual degree program in chiropractic medicine with Logan College of Chiropractic, Chesterfield, MO; Palmer College of Chiropractic, Davenport, IA; Cleveland University – Chiropractic & Health Sciences, Overland Park KS; and Northwestern College of Chiropractic, Bloomington, MN. The first three-years of required coursework in liberal arts and sciences are completed at UNI.  After one-year of satisfactory completion of chiropractic coursework at the cooperating institution, UNI will award a bachelor’s degree in Biology.  The student will then complete the three additional years of required chiropractic coursework to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) from the cooperating program.

6. Dual degree program in chiropractic medicine with Palmer College of Chiropractic, Davenport, IA; Palmer College of Chiropractic, Port Orange, FL; and Cleveland University – Chiropractic & Health Sciences. The first three-years of required coursework in liberal arts and sciences are completed at UNI. The student will then complete the three and a half additional years of required chiropractic coursework to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) from the cooperating program. After one-year of satisfactory completion of chiropractic coursework at the cooperating institution, UNI will award a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. 

7. Dual-degree program in physics and engineering in cooperation with Iowa State University (ISU). The first three years of coursework in general education and physics are completed at UNI. During the fourth and fifth years, engineering courses are completed at ISU.  When finished, a student will have a bachelor’s degree in Physics from UNI and bachelor’s degree in Engineering from ISU. 

Residence requirements for students in approved Cooperative Programs, which result in dual degrees, differ from non-Cooperative Programs. For Cooperative programs, students must earn a minimum of 32 credit hours from UNI with a minimum of 15 credit hours at the 3000/4000 level.

A student who expects to transfer to another institution should declare their special interest at the time of admission. The student will be assigned to an advisor who is familiar with the type of program being sought.

Before seeing their advisor for the first time, the student should secure a current copy of the catalog of the school to which the transfer is planned.

3. Community College Partnerships

Several statewide partnerships exist. An Associate of Arts (A.A.) or an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree from any accredited institution of higher education shall be accepted to meet all of UNI's UNIFI/General Education program requirements. The reverse credit transfer agreement allows students to complete their A.A. or A.S. degrees after transferring by using UNI courses to complete the A.A. or A.S. degrees.

The Transfer Connection Program provides students enrolled at the community college an adviser from UNI to help plan a course of study at the community college. In addition, other partnerships, known as articulation agreements, have been developed between UNI and all Iowa community colleges for specific UNI baccalaureate degree programs. These agreements show specific courses that need to be taken at each school to complete a program. If available, an articulation agreement typically results in the quickest route to graduation for a transfer student.

UNI has developed numerous articulation agreements between Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) programs at the community colleges and majors in the Department of Applied Engineering & Technical Management at UNI, which allows for a greater number of Career-Technical credits to transfer. Additionally, UNI has developed an Elementary Education 2+2 Program. Students in this program can earn an A.A. or A.S. degree from an Iowa community college, or have completed a similar set of courses at another institution. Since most Elementary Education 2+2 students are place bound or career changing, the UNI course schedule of the Elementary Education 2+2 Program is offered through our Online and Distance Education Department. The Elementary Education 2+2 Program offers B.A. degrees in Elementary Education or Elementary/Middle Level Education dual majors. Minors currently available include Early Childhood Education, Literacy Education, and Social & Emotional Learning with more in development. Called the Elementary Education 2+2 Program, however, the time to complete the degree may take more than 4 years depending on individual circumstances. For more information contact the UNI Office of Admissions, Cedar Falls, IA; Phone 319-273-2281.

Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)

1.The Four-Year Program
The Army ROTC Four-Year Program consists of two parts: the Basic Course and the Advanced Course. 

The Basic Course is usually taken during the freshman and sophomore years. Students taking a Basic Course class do not incur a military service obligation (except for scholarship students). The Basic Course teaches the student leadership, oral and written communication skills, team building, survival skills, and basic soldier skills. There is no prerequisite that the basic courses be taken in sequence; however, a student must complete the basic course or the equivalent (see paragraph 2. below), before progressing into the advanced course.
The Advanced Course is usually taken during the junior and senior years. Students must sign an ROTC contract before enrolling in Advanced Course classes. Students enrolled and contracted in the Advanced Course will incur a military obligation (either active or reserve). The Advanced Course teaches the student about small unit tactics, leadership, ethics, management of military organizations and resources, as well as military law. The Department of the Army will pay all contracted cadets up to $4,200 a year during the last two years of the program.

2. Alternatives to the Basic Course Program
The alternatives to the Basic Course are designed specifically to fill the needs of the students who did not take Army ROTC during the first two years. Placement credit for the basic course may be obtained in several ways. The most common methods are prior military service, enlisted basic training, or successful completion of the four-week summer ROTC Basic Camp. With credit gained through an alternative to the basic course, students must have two academic years remaining in order to complete the Advanced Course. 

3. ROTC Scholarships
U.S. Army ROTC has two-, three- and four-year merit based scholarships available to qualified cadets. They pay 100% of tuition and required fees at UNI or a $10,000 year room and board allowance.  These scholarships also provide $600 per semester for textbooks, supplies, and equipment and a subsistence allowance of up to $4,200 for each school year that the scholarships are in effect. Winning and accepting an ROTC scholarship does not preclude accepting other scholarships. Additional ROTC scholarship information is contained in this University Catalog.

4. The Simultaneous Membership Program
The Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP) allows contracted cadets to be members of the Iowa Army National Guard or the Army Reserve and Army ROTC simultaneously.
ROTC SMP cadets are paid at the rate of a Sergeant (E-5) for their one weekend a month training assemblies. They also can receive up to $4,200 a year subsistence allowance from the ROTC Advanced Course and may also qualify for VA educational assistance benefits. SMP cadets can also compete for two and three year scholarships available specifically for them. 

5. Advanced Leadership Techniques Minor
The Military Science Department offers a minor in Advanced Leadership Techniques. Requirements for the minor are 33-39 hours and include Military Science courses as well as elective courses. More information is contained in this University Catalog.

6. Additional Information
Additional information regarding the U.S. Army ROTC program is contained under the section titled Military Science in this University Catalog. The specific courses offered by the Department of Military Science are listed under the Department of Military Science in the course description section. For additional information, write to the University of Northern Iowa, Department of Military Science, Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0142; come in person to Nielsen Field House 273, UNI campus; or call the student advisor at 319-273-7648 or 319-273-6225. Please visit our website https://csbs.uni.edu/military-science.

Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts Curricula

A minimum of 120 semester hours is required to complete the B.A. Liberal Arts degree. All candidates on this program will complete the following pattern:

UNIFI/General Education (minimum 37 hours) *37
Major, minor, foreign language, electives83
Total Hours120
*

Programs requiring more than 120 hours are identified (see specific major requirements).

Not later than the beginning of the sophomore year, each student enrolled in this program will choose one major from the list below. A knowledge of a foreign language is required or recommended for several majors. Specific information regarding the foreign language requirements will be found with the departmental listings. It is recommended that the student include in their electives a course in the literature of some language or languages other than English (in translation if not in the original).

Majors and Minors

Specific requirements for the various majors and minors will be found with the departmental listings.

Majors

  • Accounting
  • Anthropology
  • Art
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Biology: Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology Emphasis
  • Biology: Biomedical Emphasis
  • Business Analytics
  • Chemistry
  • Communication
  • Communication/Digital Media
  • Communication/Public Relations
  • Communication Disorders
  • Computer Science
  • Criminology and Criminal Justice
  • Earth Science
  • Economics
  • English
  • Environmental Resource Management
  • Family Services
  • Finance
  • General Studies
  • General Studies for Registered Nurses
  • Geography
  • Gerontology
  • Graphic Design
  • Graphic Technology
  • History
  • Human Resource Management
  • Individual Studies
  • Interactive Digital Studies
  • Interior Design
  • Kinesiology
  • Management
  • Management Information Systems
  • Marketing
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics-Statistics/Actuarial Science
  • Music
  • Philosophy
  • Physics
  • Political Communication
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration
  • Public Health
  • Real Estate
  • Recreation, Tourism and Nonprofit Leadership
  • Religious Studies
  • Sociology
  • Spanish
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
  • Technology Management
  • Textile and Apparel
  • Theatre

Minors

  • Accounting
  • Advanced Leadership Techniques
  • Air Quality
  • American Government for Teachers
  • Anthropology
  • Art
  • Art History
  • Astronomy
  • Athletic Training and Rehabilitation Studies
  • Biology
  • Business Communication
  • Chemistry
  • Civic Literacy, Engagement, and the Humanities
  • Communication
  • Communication/Digital Journalism
  • Communication/Digital Media Leadership
  • Communication/Public Relations
  • Computer Science
  • Criminology
  • Data Science
  • Digital Media Production
  • Earth Science
  • Economics
  • Electrical and Electronics Technology (EET)
  • English
  • English-Film Studies
  • Environmental Assessment
  • Environmental Earth Science
  • Ethics
  • Family Studies
  • Finance
  • General Business Concepts
  • Geography
  • Geology
  • Gerontology
  • Graphic Technology
  • History
  • History for Social Sciences Teaching
  • Hydrology
  • Interactive Digital Studies
  • Interdisciplinary Language Studies: French
  • International Affairs
  • International Business
  • International Business (non-business majors)
  • Jazz Studies
  • Legal Studies
  • Manufacturing Technology Design
  • Marketing
  • Materials Science and Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics: Statistics and Actuarial Science
  • Mental Health
  • Metal Casting
  • Music
  • Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Philosophy
  • Physics
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration
  • Public Health
  • Public History
  • Real Estate (for Non-Business Majors)
  • Real Estate (for Business Majors)
  • Recreation, Tourism and Nonprofit Leadership
  • Religious Studies
  • Russian and East European Studies
  • Social & Emotional Learning
  • Social Justice
  • Social Welfare
  • Sociology
  • Spanish
  • Spanish/English Translation
  • Sport Administration
  • Strength and Conditioning
  • Sustainability
  • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
  • Textile and Apparel
  • Theatre
  • Studies in Sexuality, women and Gender
  • Writing

Bachelor of Arts - Teaching Program Curricula

The minimum total hours to graduate with a B.A. Teaching degree is 120 hours. Majors requiring more than 120 semester hours to graduate are identified (see specific major requirements).

A. Preparation for teaching in the secondary school or in special subjects.

UNIFI/General Education (minimum 37 hours)37
Professional Education Requirement *28-33
Major, minor, electives **55-76
Total Hours120-146

B. Preparation for teaching in the elementary school (kindergarten and grades 1-6).

UNIFI/General Education (minimum 37 hours) ***37
Professional Education Requirement *33
Major, minor, electives **50-51
Total Hours120-121

C. Preparation for teaching in early childhood education (birth through grade 3).

UNIFI/General Education (minimum 37 hours)37
Professional Education Requirement *31
Major, minor, electives **59-62
Total Hours127-130
*

The required professional education course EDPSYCH 2030 (Dynamics of Human Development) can also count toward the requirements for the UNIFI/General Education Human Condition (Domestic).

**

Number of hours determined by declared program area. See appropriate major within Program Requirements section of this catalog for specific requirements.

***

UNIFI/General Education courses will fulfill a 12-hour area of specialization required by the State for Elementary Education majors.

Professional Education Requirements

All candidates selecting a Bachelor of Arts-Teaching program are required to take the courses in professional education and a minimum of one departmental methods course. In addition, all candidates must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program.

Students are strongly encouraged to review teacher education admission information on the Teacher Education website https://teachered.uni.edu/.

All students must complete a criminal background check through the CATS Office (319-273-2265; https://teachered.uni.edu/) prior to entering PK-12 school buildings to work with pupils. Teacher candidates will be issued a certificate indicating completion of this background check process that they should carry with them to all field experiences.

SPED 3150Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners in Classrooms *2
LRNTECH 1031Educational Technology and Design3
TEACHING 4170/5170Human Relations: Awareness and Application **3
TEACHING 2017Level 1 Field Experience: Exploring Teaching1
EDPSYCH 2030Dynamics of Human Development3
TEACHING 3128Level 2 Field Experience: Lesson Planning and Instruction ***1
EDPSYCH 3148Learning and Motivation in Classroom Contexts3
MEASRES 3150Classroom Assessment2
SOCFOUND 3119Schools and American Society3
Student Teaching (course number denotes area in which experience is gained) ‡12
Early Childhood Teaching
Elementary Teaching
Special Education Teaching
Middle School/Junior High Teaching
Secondary School Teaching
Vocational/Technical Teaching
Special Area Teaching: Art, ESL, Music, and Physical Education
Advanced Laboratory Practice
Total Hours33
*

Prerequisite: EDPSYCH 2030 or equivalent. Course EDPSYCH 2030 may be used to satisfy the Human Condition: Domestic category of the UNIFI/General Education program.

**

Before enrolling in TEACHING 4170/5170, the student must be fully admitted to the Teacher Education Program.

***

Before enrolling in TEACHING 3128, the student must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program.

‡

Before enrolling in Student Teaching, the student must be fully admitted to the Teacher Education Program, have completed Level II and Level III field experiences, meet all GPA requirements, and have earned a grade of C- (1.67) or higher in each Professional Education Sequence course (effective January 1, 2009).

Program admission and completion may include requirements and evaluations/assessments prescribed by the major, the Teacher Education Program, the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and/or the Iowa Department of Education. Changes resulting from decisions made by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and/or the Iowa Department of Education can occur at any time and be binding upon both current and incoming students.

Professional Education Waivers/Substitutions

  1. Technology Education majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from Technology Education may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  2. Physical Education majors will be waived from MEASRES 3150. A Physical Education major changing to a different education major from Physical Education may be required to complete MEASRES 3150 .
  3. Physical Education majors will be waived from SPED 3150. A student changing to a different education major from Physical Education would be required to complete SPED 3150 .
  4. Music Education majors will be waived from MEASRES 3150. A student changing to a different education major from Music Education would be required to complete MEASRES 3150 .
  5. Music Education majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from Music Education may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  6. Art Education majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from Art Education may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  7. Secondary science teaching majors (Science Education, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Physics) will be waived from .LRNTECH 1031 A student changing to a different education major from Science Education, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Physics may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  8. Secondary business education teaching majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from business education may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  9. Secondary modern language education majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from modern language may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  10. Secondary mathematics teaching majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from mathematics may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  11. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) teaching majors and TESOL/Modern Language teaching majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from TESOL or TESOL/Modern Languages may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.
  12. Early Childhood Education majors will be waived from MEASRES 3150. A student changing to a different education major from Early Childhood Education would be required to complete MEASRES 3150.
  13. Physical Education majors will be waived from LRNTECH 1031. A student changing to a different education major from Physical Education may be required to complete LRNTECH 1031, depending upon the new major.

Admission to the Teacher Education Program

To be admitted to the Teacher Education Program, a student must fulfill the following requirements prior to registration for Level II courses:

  1. declare a teaching major;
  2. have at least a 2.50 cumulative GPA;
  3. file an acceptable Application for Admission to Teacher Education through Anthology Portfolio;
  4. credit for TEACHING 2017 Level 1 Field Experience: Exploring Teaching or the equivalent;
  5. demonstrate Acceptable Dispositions (absence of any Notification of Concern)
  6. fulfill any additional requirements as prescribed by the Teacher Education Program, the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, or the Iowa Department of Education.

All teacher education candidates are strongly encouraged to pursue additional opportunities for experience working with children and adolescents throughout their teacher education program through paid employment and/or volunteer activities.

Admission to the Teacher Education Program is a privilege rather than a right. Thus, admission to the Program is not guaranteed to all who apply. Students may appeal the decision to deny admittance to the Teacher Education Program or the decision to place them on academic probation in the Teacher Education Program when the decision is based on extreme circumstances over which the student has no control. In such cases, the student should contact the Director of Educator Preparation to set up an appointment to begin the appeal process.

UNI Teacher Education majors are expected to keep an active e-mail account, using the ____@uni.edu address.

Information concerning fee payments for tests, registration procedures, and test dates are available by contacting:

CATS Office
151 Schindler Education Center (SEC)
UNI
319-273-2265

Field and Clinical Experiences

Student involvement in all of the field and clinical experiences in teacher education is vital to the preparation of the prospective teacher. Observation and participation experiences are provided through specific courses in the Professional Education Sequence and through individual departments offering teaching majors. These experiences give the student the background needed to make professional course work and student teaching more meaningful.

All students must complete a criminal history background check through the Office of Teacher Education (319-273-2265; https://teachered.uni.edu/) prior to entering PK-12 school buildings to work with pupils. Teacher candidates will be issued a certificate indicating completion of this background check process that they should carry with them to all field experiences.

Student Teaching

Student teaching is a period of guided teaching which is a full semester in length. During this time, the student assumes increasing responsibility for the teaching-learning activities in the classroom. The student receives twelve (12) semester hours of credit for student teaching, evaluated on a credit/no-credit/withdrawal system. Interinstitutional student teachers who enroll at UNI, including those on the Regents' Universities Student Exchange Program, may be evaluated on a graded basis (e.g., A, B, C, D, F) upon written request at the time of application from the Registrar of the home institution.

To be admitted to student teaching, a student must have:

  1. FULL admission to the teacher education program;
  2. a certificate in High Risk Behaviors/Substance Abuse;
  3. a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher on work at all colleges and universities;
  4. a UNI GPA of 2.50 or higher;
  5. a 2.50 GPA in the appropriate academic department or department approval;
  6. a grade of C- (1.67) or higher in each Professional Education Sequence course and a GPA of 2.50 or higher across all such courses;
  7. completion of all methods courses listed as prerequisites for student teaching with a grade of C (2.00) or higher as well as other departmental requirements;
  8. Health Education and Physical Education majors and minors are required to have current First Aid and CPR certification prior to student teaching.

The final student teacher assignment is based upon fulfillment of all established requirements stated above, successful completion of Level II and Level III field experiences (and a  minimum of 80 contact hours in PK-12 schools), acceptable professional dispositions, and availability of placement.

Exit Requirements

To be recommended for teaching licensure in Iowa, a student who graduates from the UNI Teacher Education Program must satisfactorily complete all courses in the major and/or minor and the teacher education requirements, have an overall GPA of 2.50 and a cumulative UNI GPA of 2.50, submit fingerprint and waiver cards for mandated FBI background checks, and pass additional exit requirements as prescribed by the major, the Teacher Education Program, the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and/or the Iowa Department of Education. A student not meeting these requirements may graduate but will not receive recommendation for licensure.

As of July 2022, Iowa no longer requires a national exit examination to be recommended for licensure. Therefore, it is also not a requirement at the University of Northern Iowa. However, many other states still hold these national examinations as a licensure requirement. If you plan to teach in another state, you will need to check with that state for their exit examination requirements and procedures.

Progressing Through the Teacher Education Program

This section provides an overview of practices that may delay a student from progressing through the Teacher Education Program in a timely fashion.

Four Decision Points are established to mark progression through the Teacher Education Program:

  1. admission to the university,
  2. admission to the Teacher Education Program,
  3. admission to student teaching, and
  4. recommendation for licensure.

Professional Education Faculty members, staff, and/or administrators may delay a student in moving through the Decision Points if a student demonstrates deficiencies in meeting course or Program Standards. To correct the deficiencies, faculty, staff, and/or administrators may file a Notification of Concern, indicating how the student can remedy the deficiency. Only after the deficiencies are resolved may the student expect to move forward in the Program and be recommended for a teaching license.

Suspension from the Teacher Education Program

Any student who has one or more unresolved Notifications of Concern indicating significant deficiencies in meeting the standards for the UNI Teacher Education Program may be considered for suspension from the Program. Suspension from the Program is determined by the Teacher Candidate Professional Review Committee and is for a minimum of one calendar year. Only the most extreme circumstances would warrant consideration for re-admission before one calendar year has elapsed. At the time of suspension, students are informed of the conditions and procedures for re-admission to the Program. Students may appeal their suspension from the Teacher Education Program to the appropriate Teacher Education Senate. Should a student believe the Senate made a procedural error during the appeal process, the student may appeal to the Teacher Education Executive Council.  Contact the CATS Office, 319-273-2265 for more information.

Emergency Suspension: Any student may be suspended immediately by the Director of Educator Preparation for extreme, unforeseen circumstances such as endangerment of students, disruption of schools/classes, felonious behaviors, or ethical violations. Such suspensions will be referred to university officials and may become permanent.

Re-admission to the Teacher Education Program

Students wishing to be re-admitted to the Teacher Education Program should seek probationary re-admission according to the following schedule: apply by February 1 for Summer and Fall probationary re-admission; apply by October 1 for Spring probationary re-admission. Applications are found at the CATS Office (SEC 152).

The decision to re-admit students on a probationary status will be made by the Teacher Candidate Professional Review Committee. Conditions for probationary re-admission are determined on a case-by-case basis by the Committee and in accordance with conditions determined at the time of suspension. Upon successful completion of the probationary period, the Teacher Candidate Professional Review Committee determines conditions for full re-admission and may recommend such to the Teacher Education Executive Council, which makes the final decision.

Suspension for a second time is considered permanent. Only the most extreme circumstances would warrant consideration for re-admission a second time. Consideration of readmission following a second suspension from the teacher education program is determined by the Teacher Education Executive Council.

Majors and Minors - Teaching

Elementary majors may choose a university-approved endorsement minor (refer to Elementary Education Major for possible choices).

Each student preparing to teach in the secondary school or in a special subject will choose a major not later than the beginning of the sophomore year. The student will also select at least one minor if a minor requirement is indicated under the description of the chosen major. Even if not required, a student may select a second major or one or more minors.

Approved majors and minors will be chosen from the fields listed below.

Majors

  • Art Education
  • Biology
  • Business
  • Chemistry
  • Communication-Theatre
  • Comprehensive Secondary Science
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Earth Science
  • Elementary Education
  • English
  • History
  • Mathematics
  • Middle Level Education Dual
  • Middle Level Science Teaching Dual
  • Music Education
  • Physical Education
  • Physics
  • Purple Pathway for Paraeducators
     
  • Social Science
  • Spanish
  • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
  • TESOL/Modern Language

Note: There is also the Bachelor of Science in Technology and Engineering Education-Teaching major offered by the Department of Applied Engineering & Technical Management.

Minors

  • Art Education
  • Basic Science (K-8)
  • Biology
  • Coaching
  • Communication-Theatre
  • Deaf or Hard of Hearing
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Early Childhood Special Education
  • Earth Science
  • English
  • Health Education
  • History Social Sciences Endorsements
  • Instructional Strategist l: Mild/Moderate K-8
  • Instructional Strategist l: Mild/Moderate 5-12
  • Instructional Strategist ll: Mental Disabilities K-12
  • Instructional Technology: Educational Technology
  • Literacy Education
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics (K-8)
  • Social Studies (K-8)
  • Spanish
  • Spanish (K-8)
  • STEM Education
  • STEM K-8 : 5-8
  • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
  • Technology Education

Bachelor of Applied Science Degree Program

The purpose of the Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) degree is to offer educational opportunities to those students who have completed an A.A.S degree and are now seeking to complete a four-year degree.  These students are often place-bound and need to take online classes while remaining a full-time employee.

Admission to the Program

Each student entering the program must have earned:

1.      an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree from an accredited institution; and

2.      a minimum 2.00 grade point average; and

3.      two years of relevant work experience.

Total Credit Requirements

A total of at least 120 semester hours of credit, including applicable transferable credit earned, is required for graduation. The total must fulfill the following specifications:

1.      24 hours of UNIFI/General Education classes (or 23-24 hours of Liberal Arts Core), as outlined below, of which 9 hours can be transferred in as the Written Communication, Oral Communication, and Quantitative Reasoning UNIFI categories (or LAC 1A, 1B, and 1C if on the Liberal Arts Core);

2.      6 hours of Professional Communication, as outlined below;

3.      21-30 hours of Major coursework, from one of the majors listed below;

4.      0-19 hours of elective credit, for a total of 60 semester hours of credit taken at the University of Northern Iowa.

UNIFI/General Education Requirements for B.A.S. Degree

Students must meet the following undergraduate UNIFI/General Education requirements as specified below.

Summary:
Written Communication *3
Oral Communication *3
Quantitative Reasoning *3
*BAS Students are permitted to transfer in courses equivalent to the Written Communication, Oral Communication, and Quantitative Reasoning UNIFI categories. No other classes can be applied to fulfill the UNIFI portion of the BAS degree.
Human Condition - Global3
Human Condition - Domestic3
Scientific Reasoning (lab not required)3
Human Expression3
Responsibility3
Total Hours24

Liberal Arts Core Requirements for B.A.S. Degree:

Students must meet the following undergraduate Liberal Arts Core requirements as specified below.

Summary:
Category 1: Core Competencies in Categories 1A (writing), 1B (speaking), and 1C (math) or transfer equivalencies* 9
*BAS students are permitted to transfer in courses equivalent to Categories 1A, 1B, & 1C. No other classes can be applied to fulfill the LAC portion of the BAS degree.
Category 2: Civilizations & Cultures (1 course from Category 2A or 2B)3
Category 3: Fine Arts, Literature, Philosophy & Religion (1 course from Category 3A or 3B)3
Category 4: Natural Science & Technology (1 course from Category 4A or 4B)3
Category 5: Social Science (1 course from Category 5A, 5B, or 5C)3
Category 6: Capstone Experience (1 course)(2-3hours or 1 additional course from BAS LAC Category 2, 3, 4, or 5)2-3
Total Hours23-24

Professional Communication Required Courses for B.A.S. Degree

Required:
COMM 3155Professional and Public Communication3
ENGLISH 3770Technical Writing in Applied Sciences3
Total Hours6

Majors

Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree

The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree is generally recognized as the professional undergraduate degree in the visual arts. Students are required to pass a portfolio review for admission to the B.F.A. program in the Department of Art. Once admitted, students opt for an emphasis in one of the following studio areas in the Department of Art: ceramics, drawing, graphic design, jewelry design and metalsmithing, painting, performance art, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. During their senior year, candidates for this degree are required to present an exhibition of their creative works demonstrating competency in the studio arts. (See Department of Art for detailed information about this program.)

A minimum of 122 semester hours is required to complete the B.F.A. degree. This degree does not provide for licensure to teach; additional hours are necessary to meet licensure requirements.

Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Curricula

Candidates for the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree will complete the following pattern of work:

Art Major
UNIFI/General Education37
Major Requirements/electives85
B.F.A. Senior Exhibition0
Total Hours122

Major

Art: Studio B.F.A.

Bachelor of Music Degree

Majors in this degree program have the choice of an educational major or two professional majors. The Music Education major carries licensure to teach music in grades K-8 and 5-12. The Performance major with emphases in voice, piano, organ, and band-orchestral instruments, and the Composition-Theory major are professional programs designed to prepare students for careers as artist-performers or composers, or for entrance to graduate schools where further excellence in a performance area might be pursued. Students earning the Bachelor of Music degree are prepared as performers, college teachers, and in all areas where a high degree of music or performing skill is required.

Bachelor of Music Degree Curricula

All candidates for the Bachelor of Music degree will complete a pattern similar to the following. A minimum of 120 semester hours is required for the Bachelor of Music degree. However, total hours to graduate may range from 120-148 depending on the major chosen (refer to School of Music in this University Catalog for specific major requirements).

UNIFI/General Education37
Music requirements (applied, theory, history and literature, conducting, ensembles, recital, composition, electives)66-80
General electives/professional sequence *0-36

The following majors are offered on this degree program:

Composition-Theory79
Music Education (teaching) (66, 67, or 77 hours)66-77
Performance (voice, piano, organ, band-orchestral instruments)80
*

Music Education majors must also complete the Professional Education Requirements. The minimum semester-hour requirements vary with the specialization chosen. The Music Education major carries licensure to teach in grades K-8 and 5-12.

The approval of the faculty, and the Associate Director of Undergraduate Music Programs of the School of Music must be secured before a student is admitted formally to this degree program. All students who have been admitted to the school and wish to pursue a music major curriculum must undertake a common core of required courses during the freshman year. During the second semester of the freshman year, an extensive evaluation of each music major will be conducted. In addition to the entrance audition required of all students who intend to major in music, transfer students are required to take a placement exam in music theory or start with level l in Theory, Aural Training, and Sight Singing. The music faculty will evaluate the performance in these areas to determine School of Music admissibility for each transfer student.

Participation in a Large Ensemble such as band, chorus, orchestra, and other ensembles, is required of all degree students every semester in residence.

(Refer to the School of Music in this University Catalog for additional information.)

Majors

  • Composition
  • Music Education
  • Performance

Bachelor of Science Degree Curricula

The Bachelor of Science degree should be elected by those students who are preparing for careers in areas where effective application of knowledge and training requires a higher degree of concentration in advanced-level course work.

Effective with the 2023-24 catalog, a minimum of 120 semester hours is a graduation requirement for the Bachelor of Science degree.

Requirements include:

  1. A minimum of 56 hours in the program, including at least 36 hours in the subject area;
  2. The completion of an undergraduate research course carrying a minimum of 1 semester hour of credit. This course will result in the completion of a written report, conference presentation, or other scholarly product;
  3. Completion of all other University requirements.

Majors

  • Automation Engineering Technology
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Construction Management
  • Cybersecurity and System Administration
  • Electrical Engineering Technology
  • Environmental Science
  • Geographic Information Science
  • Manufacturing Engineering Technology
  • Materials Science and Engineering 
  • Materials Science Engineering Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Physics

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Curricula

Graduates of the University of Northern Iowa's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program emerge as clinically focused and practice-ready nurses who demonstrate proficiency in situational awareness, clinical judgment, and clinical reasoning in the care of patients and families. They will be collaborative members of interprofessional teams and will be leaders in promoting the four spheres of care for diverse populations. They excel in person-centered care while considering unique client preferences, values, and social determinants of health. These professionals contribute to health equity through screenings, health promotion, and community partnerships while integrating and disseminating nursing knowledge for improved health outcomes. With a focus on safety, quality improvement, and interprofessional communication, they navigate the healthcare continuum effectively, applying ethical principles and utilizing information technologies for evidence-based care. Graduates are prepared with a personal and professional plan for long-term resilience, self-care, lifelong learning, and ethical leadership in diverse nursing settings. The undergraduate nursing program is pursuing candidacy status for accreditation through Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Students will complete a total of 540 hours of clinical and simulation with 75 laboratory hours, which will provide students with the competence to care for patients across the lifespan.

Admission to Nursing Program

  1. Students must be admitted to the University of Northern Iowa based on standard admissions criteria found in UNI’s catalog - https://catalog.uni.edu/generalinformation/admissionrequirements
     
  2. Complete the application form for the major. Prior to filing out the application the student must have completed or be completing prerequisite coursework or equivalent coursework:  STAT 1772 Introduction to Statistical Methods OR SOC SCI 2020 Social Sciences Statistics;  CHEM 1010 Principles of Chemistry;  BIOL 1101 Principles of Anatomy & Physiology I;  BIOL 1102 Principles of Anatomy & Physiology II;  PH 2180 Medical Terminology;  PSYCH 2202 Developmental Psychology OR FAM SERV 1055 Human Growth and Development.
     
  3. Achieve a minimum extracted grade point average in pre-requisite courses of 3.00 based on a 4.00 scale.  Students not meeting the GPA requirement may be admitted on probation at the discretion of the nursing admissions committee.
     
  4.  Prerequisite coursework must be completed in the term preceding entry into the major. The student may be provisionally admitted to the program as long as the student is enrolled in the third semester courses and making strong progress in the enrolled courses. The student must pass and complete all prerequisite coursework prior to taking nursing specific courses. 
     
  5. Admissions decisions to the major are made by the nursing committee.  For applicants who meet the minimum requirements, the nursing admissions committee will select the applicants who, in its judgment, are best qualified to meet the expectations of prospective members of the nursing profession.

Progression Policy

A C+ (2.33) or better grade is required in nursing coursework (courses with a NUR prefix) to pass a course. Failure in three nursing courses will result in dismissal from the program. For courses with both theory and clinical components, grades of C+ or above are considered passing in the nursing program.

Dismissal from Nursing Program

Students are subject to dismissal from the BSN Program for academic or professional reasons under any of the following conditions:

  • Being placed on clinical probation for a second time.
  • Course failure (a grade less than a C+ (2.33) in two nursing courses. 
  • A grade of less than C in pathophysiology and microbiology courses. 
  • Consistently exhibiting unprofessional behavior is considered unacceptable for both study and a career in nursing.
  • Failure to remove or successfully resolve clinical probation status.
  • Acts of dishonesty or unethical behavior.
  • Providing unsafe care

The Chief Academic Nurse administrator will notify students dismissed from the BSN program via their UNI email. Students dismissed from the BSN Program may apply to transfer to another UNI program. They are subject to the transferring department's rules and regulations.

Re-admission to Nursing Program

Students can appeal the dismissal to the Nursing Admissions and Progression Committee. The decisions of the Committee are final. See Nursing & Public Health Department for further details.

Major

  • Nursing

Bachelor of Social Work Degree Curricula

The Bachelor of Social Work degree requires a minimum of 120 hours. The Social Work Department at the University of Northern Iowa is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The undergraduate social work major prepares students for beginning level professional social work practice. The program defines the generalist perspective on practice as "Multidimensional theory, knowledge, and skills used to understand and intervene into diverse human systems in keeping with social work values and ethics." The program contributes to the liberal arts, general education of university students who are not social work majors. Finally, it affords social work students the opportunity to explore advanced methodologies and fields of practice within social work through occasional advanced elective offerings. Practical experience is an important emphasis in this department. Every senior does an internship in a social agency working with clients and supervised by a practicing social worker.

Major

  • Social Work

Bachelor of Liberal Studies Degree

The Bachelor of Liberal Studies (B.L.S.) program is offered by the three Iowa Regents’ Universities: University of Northern Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Iowa. The purpose of the B.L.S. is to offer educational opportunities to those students who are unable to attend college as full-time, on-campus students. Students often use self-paced and other distance learning opportunities to earn credit. This major may not be declared with any other major.

Admission to the Program

Each student entering the program must have earned:

  1. an Associate of Arts degree from an accredited, two-year college, or at least 24 semester hours of college credit acceptable toward graduation at UNI;
  2. a minimum 2.00 grade point average.

Total Credit Requirements

A total of at least 120 semester hours of credit, including transferable credit earned, is required for graduation. The total must fulfill the following specifications:

  1. 45 semester hours of credit earned at four-year colleges in courses defined as upper-level at the colleges in which courses are taken. At the University of Northern Iowa, upper-level courses are those numbered 3000/4000-level and above;
  2. at least 30 hours of credit earned in the junior and/or senior years in courses at UNI. This total may include nonresidence credit.

UNIFI/General Education Requirements

Students must meet the basic undergraduate core requirements as specified and determined by the policies of the degree-granting institution.

Program Distribution Requirements

To ensure sufficient breadth of study, each student's program must include, in addition to the credit used to fulfill the UNIFI/General Education requirements previously stated, a minimum of 12 semester hours of credit in each of the three (3) areas selected from the following list. Of the total 36 semester hours of credit applied to fulfill this requirement, 24 semester hours must be in upper-level credits as defined by the institution in which the courses are taken, with at least 6 semester hours of upper-level credits in each of the three areas chosen.

  1. Humanities
  2. Communications and Arts
  3. Natural Sciences and Mathematics
  4. Social Sciences
  5. Professional fields (such as business, applied human sciences, social work, and education)

Information and details regarding admission to the B.L.S. program, evaluation of prior academic work, program advising, and declaration of major may be obtained from:

Online and Distance Education
HPC 106

Students may also call the B.L.S. advisor at 1-800-772-1746 or 319-273-2504.

Students are also encouraged to visit the B.L.S. website online.uni.edu/bls.

Change of Degree Program

Students who change from one degree program to another will be held for all specific requirements of the program on which they expect to graduate. There will be little difficulty in making such a change if it is made not later than the beginning of the junior year. However, if the change is made later than that, there is no assurance that the student will be able to complete the work required for graduation within a four-year period.

University of Northern Iowa Foundational Inquiry (UNIFI)/General Education

Students admitted to the University for the Summer 2022 term or later will follow the UNI Foundational Inquiry (UNIFI)/General Education requirements.

The university’s mission affirms that a general or liberal arts education is an essential component of every undergraduate’s experience at UNI. In keeping with the tradition of liberal learning, the UNI Foundational Inquiry (UNIFI) program emphasizes skills, knowledge, and habits of mind that prepare students for success in an uncertain future, laying a firm foundation so that they can lead fulfilling personal, professional, and civic lives. 

UNIFI is designed to be a flexible program that evolves over time to address the issues we face in a complex and ever-changing world, but its foundational principles are firmly rooted in liberal education. As the Association of American Colleges and Universities explains, “A liberal education is a liberating education in that it frees the mind to seek after the truth unencumbered by dogma, ideology, or preconceived notions. A liberally educated person can think for himself or herself, is both broad- and open-minded, and is, therefore, less susceptible to manipulation or prejudice.” UNI approaches liberal learning with this understanding in mind. By developing intellectual and practical skills of inquiry and analysis, critical and creative thinking, written and oral communication, collaboration and problem solving, ethical and scientific reasoning, students are prepared to play a role in shaping our shared world through democratic processes, to make responsible choices, and to understand that individual goals are always pursued in the context of the human and natural worlds in which we are embedded and on which we all depend for meaning and sustenance. 

(AACU, “What Liberal Education Looks Like: What It Is, Who It’s For, & Where It Happens,” 2020)

Requirements of UNIFI/General Education

(For all Bachelor's degrees - for UNIFI/General Education minimum hours and requirements for the Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) degree, refer to Bachelor of Applied Science degree in this section.)

Summary (minimum 37 hours for all students, with the exception of those pursuing B.A.S. degree).

Written Communication3
Oral Communication3
Quantitative Reasoning3
Human Condition-Domestic3
Human Condition-Global3
Scientific Reasoning (with lab)4
Human Expression3
Responsibility3
Connect *12
Total Hours37
*

Students have the option to pursue a nine-twelve hour Multidisciplinary Certificate, listed below, to satisfy the Connect requirement. Students must still earn 12 hours to satisfy the Connect requirement.

Engage (Skills)

Written Communication

Courses in the Written Communication learning area are designed to enhance foundational communication skills and habits of mind necessary for success at UNI and beyond. In addition to the processes of reading, researching, writing, and revising, written communication courses enable students to develop critical thinking skills. 

Select one of the following3
College Writing and Research
Introduction to Writing Studies
Critical Writing About Literature
The Art of Critical Thinking and Writing
First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication I
and First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication II (Both UNIV 1000 & UNIV 1010 must be taken to meet UNIFI Written and Oral Communication requirements)

Oral Communication

Courses in the Oral Communication learning area are designed to enhance foundational communication skills and knowledge necessary for success at UNI and beyond. Oral communication courses also teach active listening, as well as how to engage in civil discourse, especially in diverse groups.

Select one of the following3
Oral Communication
First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication I
and First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication II (Both UNIV 1000 & UNIV 1010 must be taken to meet UNIFI Written and Oral Communication requirements)

Quantitative Reasoning

Courses in the Quantitative Reasoning learning area encompass any discipline that uses quantitative methods or formal logic, with an emphasis on courses that demonstrate how such methods can be used to explain reality and achieve meaning. Because these courses address both quantitative reasoning and critical thinking, they locate mathematical skills and reasoning in a context of explaining or solving complex problems.

Select one of the following3
Introduction to Business Economics
Principles of Macroeconomics
Financial Skills for Smart Living
Mathematics in Decision Making
Calling Hogwash: Mathematics for Critical Thinking
Mathematical Reasoning
Calculus I
Elementary Logic
Social Sciences Statistics
Introduction to Statistical Methods

Discover (Knowledge) 

Human Condition-Domestic

Courses in the Human Condition-Domestic learning area enlarge students’ understanding of the many possible meanings of being human by urging them to branch out beyond their own specific background, enabling them to think about their experience from that broadened perspective. This learning area includes courses from a very wide range of disciplines with a focus on the United States.

Select one of the following3
People of the Great Lakes
Communication and Popular Culture
Media and Power
Crime and Community
Dynamics of Human Development
Survey of American Literature
Multicultural Literature
Human Identity and Relationships
Family Relationships
Exploring Family Diversity in America
United States History to the Civil War and Emancipation
United States History since the Civil War and Emancipation
America's Military Past
Maternal and Infant Health
Power & Politics in the U.S.
Political Problems in the U.S.: (topic)
Introduction to Psychology
American Religious Diversity
Introduction to Sociology
Social Problems
The Self in Social Context
American Racial and Minoritized Populations
Language Today

Human Condition-Global

Courses in the Human Condition-Global learning area enlarge students’ understanding of the many possible meanings of being human by urging them to branch out beyond their own specific background, enabling them to think about their experience from that broadened perspective. This learning area includes courses from a very wide range of disciplines with global or international focus.

Select one of the following3
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
World Prehistory and the Rise of Civilizations
Climate Change, Human Migration and Conflict
Slavery and Human Trafficking
Survey of Art History I
Survey of Art History II
Global Skills: (topic)
Survey of English Literature I: Beginnings to Early Modernity
Survey of English Literature II: Romantics to Post-Colonialism
The Holocaust in Literature and Film
Ireland: Literature, Culture, History
Francophone Cross-Cultural Bridges
Global Geography
Peoples, Cultures, and Environments
Making the Modern World
Problems & Perspectives in Global History: (Topic)
Constructing Cross-Cultural Bridges
World Philosophies
Perspectives on Death and Dying
International Relations
Global Challenges: (Topic)
Religions of the World
Introduction to Human Rights
Social Movements
Perspectives on Education
Global Social Work
Intercultural Perspectives
Study Abroad: (Topic)
Women's and Gender Studies: Introduction
Introduction to LGBTQ Studies
Masculine Cultures

Scientific Reasoning (with Lab)

Courses in the Scientific Reasoning learning area focus on discerning basic principles that explain natural phenomena through observation and analysis of the world. Students learn how scientists rely on theory and experimentation to test and refine understandings of our human minds and bodies, life on earth, and the physical universe. Laboratory courses unite hands-on scientific experimentation, inductive reasoning, and deductive analysis with the study of basic principles. After completing a course in this learning area, students will be able to critique claims using the tools of scientific inquiry.

Select one of the following4
Bones & Stones: The Science of Human Origins
and Bones & Stones: The Science of Human Origins Laboratory
Archaeology for Beginners
and Archaeology for Beginners Laboratory
Life: The Natural World
and Life: The Natural World - Lab
Life: Continuity and Change
and Life: Continuity and Change - Lab
General Biology: Organismal Diversity
General Biology: Cell Structure and Function
Principles of Chemistry
Chemical Technology
General Chemistry I
General Chemistry I-II
Astronomy
and Astronomy Laboratory
Elements of Weather
and Elements of Weather Laboratory
Introduction to Geology
Introduction to Environmental Earth Science
Planet Earth
and Planet Earth Laboratory
Physics in Everyday Life
and Physics in Everyday Life Laboratory
General Physics I
Physics I for Science and Engineering
Inquiry into Earth and Space Science
Inquiry into Life Science
Inquiry into Physical Science

Human Expression

Courses in the Human Expression learning area include the creation as well as the analysis or interpretation of creative works in the arts. Students engage in a creative process to produce artistic work, and interpret creative works and ideas as expressions of meaning and purpose.

Select one of the following3
Visual Inventions
Visual Perceptions
Introduction to Chinese Literature
Creativity, Storytelling and Identity
Start a Podcast
Literature: (topic)
Elements of Creative Writing
Writing & Healing
The Creative Experience
Introduction to Literature in French
Engaging Sources: (Topic)
Children's Literature
Soundscapes: Music in Culture
Modern Band and Creative Music Making
The Power of Myth: (Topic)
Introduction to Hispanic Literature
Theatre in Our World
Acting for Non-Majors

Responsibility

Courses in the Responsibility learning area give students the opportunity to develop skills in ethical reasoning, gaining a greater understanding of their personal responsibilities and their roles as citizens. The learning area aims to enable students to move beyond ideological reactions to questions that require careful normative judgment. It does not aim to instill in students a particular moral code, but to help them develop the habits of reasoning based on consistent principles, and judging based on evidence and logic, which they will need as citizens in charge of creating our shared world.

Select one of the following3
BUSINESS 3159: The Ethics of Global Leadership, Cross-Cultural Negotiations, and Sustainability
Matter Matters
Ethics in Communication
Natural Resources and Civilizations
Global Water Environment
Economics of Social Issues
Law and Literature
Overview of Entrepreneurship
Conflict and Justice in History: (Topic)
Conflict and Justice Study Abroad: (Topic)
Introduction to Public Health
Justice and the Good Life: Philosophical Perspectives
Science, Technology, and Ethics (STE)
Bio-Medical Ethics
Becoming Global Citizens
Religion and Ethics
Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector
Democracy and Education in the 21st Century
Analyzing Ethics, Personal Decision-Making, and Social Responsibility
Introduction to Sustainability

Connect

Connect

Select 12 hours from any Engage or Discover UNIFI category *12
*

Students have the option to pursue a nine-twelve hour Multidisciplinary Certificate, listed below, to satisfy the Connect requirement. Students must still earn 12 hours to satisfy the Connect requirement.

Recognizing the value of Study Abroad as a High Impact Practice for our students in an increasingly globalized world, the UNIFI program will accept any short-term, faculty-led UNI Study Abroad course as a Connect Elective. Only one Study Abroad course will count toward the requirements in the Connect tier unless one of these courses has also been individually approved as a UNIFI course in a specific learning area. 

UNIFI Multidisciplinary Certificates

The following certificates are available to any UNI student, and can be used to satisfy the Connect requirement of the UNIFI/General Education program. Students must still earn 12 hours to satisfy the Connect requirement.

Career Success in Organizations Certificate

No matter their major, all UNI students will work within some form of an organization during their careers. Whether a for-purpose, for-profit, or governmental entity, knowledge of factors that influence how organizations operate helps employees more effectively contribute to the mission of the organization. The purpose of this certificate is to provide a broad understanding of organizations including factors that influence decision making, levels of responsibility, data and written/unwritten rules that govern operations, and professional expectations for communicating and interacting within the organization.

Decision-making in Organizations
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Business Economics
Principles of Macroeconomics
Introduction to Public Administration
Leadership and Management in Public Service
Work Psychology: Well-Being
Work Psychology: Performance
Responsibility in Organizations
Complete one of the following:3
Economics of Social Issues
Financial Skills for Smart Living
Overview of Entrepreneurship
Public Budgeting
Numbers in Organizations
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Information Systems
Modern Tools for Exploring Data
Principles of Financial Accounting
Communication in Organizations
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Workplace Writing
Business Communication
Total Hours12

Civic Literacy, Engagement, and the Humanities

This interdisciplinary certificate emphasizes training in civic literacy and the humanities that address how to contribute to the flourishing of a democratic society. It will introduce students to the knowledge, skills, and dispositions associated with civic literacy and the humanities disciplines that prepare them for a life of meaningful engagement with democratic processes at the local, regional, national, and international levels.

Civic Knowledge
Complete one of the following:3
Survey of American Literature
United States History to the Civil War and Emancipation
United States History since the Civil War and Emancipation
Power & Politics in the U.S.
International Relations
American Religious Diversity
Religion and the Public Schools
Civic Values
Complete one of the following:3
Democracy and Education in the 21st Century
Argumentation and Debate
Law and Literature
Introduction to Political Theory: Freedom, Justice and Power
Civic Skills
Complete one of the following:3
Religion and Politics: (Topics)
Justice and the Good Life: Philosophical Perspectives
Introduction to Writing Studies
Introduction to Public Administration
Making the Modern World
Total Hours9
*

Only two courses from the same academic department can count toward this certificate.

Creative Expression and Meaning Certificate

Complete one of the following:3
Soundscapes: Music in Culture
Modern Band and Creative Music Making
Complete one of the following:3
Visual Perceptions
Visual Inventions
Complete one of the following:3
Literature: (topic)
Elements of Creative Writing
Writing & Healing
Complete one of the following:3
Theatre in Our World
Acting for Non-Majors
Total Hours12

Critical Thinking and Information Literacy Certificate

Complete one of the following:3
Psychology of Science and Pseudoscience
Intellectual Vices and Virtues: Theory and Practice
Complete one of the following:3
Calling Hogwash: Mathematics for Critical Thinking
Elementary Logic
Complete one of the following:3
Question Everything: Navigating Information Overload
B.S. Detection
Total Hours9

Data Science Certificate

This certificate provide students with the necessary skills to be able to appropriately identify data, analyze and visualize data, and communicate conclusions in quantitative and qualitative domains.

Applied Tools
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Data Science
Introductory Programming for Data Science
Social Issues
Complete one of the following:3
Science, Technology, and Ethics (STE)
Exploring Social Justice Issues through Mathematics
Information Literacy
Complete one of the following:3
B.S. Detection
Question Everything: Navigating Information Overload
Statistics
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Statistical Methods
Social Sciences Statistics
Total Hours12

Developmental Considerations Certificate

Required:
Foundations
Complete one of the following:3
Language Acquisition in Children: Birth to 5 Years
Dynamics of Human Development
Human Growth and Development
Developmental Psychology
Movement and Physical Growth
Complete one of the following:3
Motor Learning and Development
Developmental Trends in Physical Activity & Sport
Systems and Health
Complete one of the following:3
Maternal and Infant Health
Child Welfare Policy and Practice
Total Hours9

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate

The purpose of this certificate is for students to explore topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from a variety of different content areas. Students will get an opportunity to critique complex social issues from a variety of lenses; including mathematics/science, gender, religion, history, communication, and/or politics. Students will develop a deeper understanding of a variety of perspectives related to DEI, including critically analyzing social justice issues; debating and understanding the values and ethics related to diverse groups, perspectives, and/or societies; learning about and discussing their own and/or others’ identities; and delve into more global sociocultural issues related to different aspects of culture.

Critical Perspectives on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Complete one of the following:3
Natural Resources and Civilizations
Exploring Social Justice Issues through Mathematics
International Relations
Power & Politics in the U.S.
Religions of the World
American Religious Diversity
Women's and Gender Studies: Introduction
Ethical Perspectives on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Complete one of the following:3
Economics of Social Issues
Justice and the Good Life: Philosophical Perspectives
Ethics in Communication
Conflict and Justice in History: (Topic)
Perspectives on Identity
Complete one of the following:3
Maternal and Infant Health
Creativity, Storytelling and Identity
Introduction to LGBTQ Studies
Multicultural Literature
Masculine Cultures
Sociocultural Perspectives on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
Peoples, Cultures, and Environments
United States History to the Civil War and Emancipation
United States History since the Civil War and Emancipation
Problems & Perspectives in Global History: (Topic)
Global Social Work
Total Hours12

East Asia Certificate

Emphasizing primarily China and Japan but with some coverage of Korea and Vietnam, the East Asia Certificate introduces material to students from the perspective of four very different academic disciplines, with an emphasis on both East Asian diversity and cultural commonalities

Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Chinese Literature
Problems & Perspectives in Global History: (Topic) (Identity, Diversity, and Commonality in East Asia)
Complete one of the following:3
Problems & Perspectives in Global History: (Topic) (Becoming Familiar with East Asia - Japan as Example and Exception)
Problems & Perspectives in Global History: (Topic) (One Thousand Years of Samurai)
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Chinese Culture: (Topic)
Confucianism, Daoism, and Zen
Total Hours9

Innovation in Leadership Certificate

The Innovation in Leadership Certificate focuses on the intersection of business, nonprofit, and government to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each, leading to creating shared value partnerships to develop innovative responses to solving complex system problems.

Entrepreneurial Fundamentals
Required:3
Financials for the Entrepreneurial Enterprise
Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector
Required:3
Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector
Current and Emerging Issues in Public Administration
Complete one of the following:3
Introduction to Public Administration
Leadership and Management in Public Service
Nonprofit Leadership
Required:3
Nonprofit Leadership Practicum, Level I
Total Hours12

Sustainability Certificate

Required:
TECH 1015Introduction to Sustainability3
Complete one of the following:3-4
Life: The Natural World
and Life: The Natural World - Lab
General Biology: Organismal Diversity
Introduction to Environmental Earth Science
Nature-Society Relations
Physics in Everyday Life
Complete one of the following:3
Natural Resources and Civilizations
Economics of Social Issues
Conflict and Justice in History: (Topic)
Science, Technology, and Ethics (STE)
Total Hours9-10

THRIVE! Certificate

Required:
Physical Domain
Complete one of the following:3
Physical Activity and Nutrition
Introduction to Public Health
Social Domain
Complete one of the following:3
Economics of Social Issues
Human Identity and Relationships
Mental Domain
Complete one of the following:3
The Science and Experience of Human Flourishing
Self-Care and Stress Management in Helping Professions
Financial Domain
Complete one of the following:3
Financials for the Entrepreneurial Enterprise
Financial Skills for Smart Living
Total Hours12

United States Studies Certificate

Students taking the United States Studies Certificate will analyze the diverse experiences and values of the people of the United States and investigate solutions to over-arching problems such as climate change and social inequities.

Complete one of the following:3
American Religious Diversity
Power & Politics in the U.S.
Complete one of the following:3
Survey of American Literature
United States History to the Civil War and Emancipation
United States History since the Civil War and Emancipation
Complete one of the following:3
Multicultural Literature
America's Military Past
Total Hours9

Administrative Policies:

  1. UNIFI/General Education courses may be used to satisfy requirements for both the UNIFI program and the major, minor, and program emphases.
  2. Departments offering a UNIFI/General Education course may preclude their major or minor students from taking that particular course to satisfy the requirements for UNIFI/General Education, the major, or the minor.
  3. UNIFI/General Education requirements can be met through CLEP examinations, departmental examinations, and the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board.
  4. No UNIFI/General Education course may be taken for graduate credit.
  5. No UNIFI/General Education course may have a prerequisite with the exception of demonstrated language or math proficiency for placement purposes.
  6. All courses taken to meet UNIFI/General Education requirements must be taken for graded credit.
  7. An Associate of Arts (AA) or an Associate of Science (AS) degree from any accredited institution of higher education shall be accepted to meet all UNIFI/General Education program requirements.
  8. The UNIFI/General Education requirements apply to all undergraduate degree programs.
  9. Regents Articulation Agreement:

​The University of Northern Iowa, the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Iowa, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University agree to accept fulfillment of general education at any one of them as equivalent to completion of general education requirements at another, with the following stipulations:

  1. This agreement does not apply to those students who transfer without having fully completed general education prior to transfer.
  2. Validation of fulfillment of general education requirements requires that a student transferring must have met the transfer requirements of the receiving institution with respect to semester hours and grade point average.
  3. When a foreign language proficiency is required, whether within or in addition to general education, a student may meet this requirement at either institution regardless of the institution whose general education requirements the student fulfills.
  4. General education validation is the responsibility of the student transferring and will be completed upon request to the Registrar of the institution from which the student is transferring.
 

Liberal Arts Core

As stated in the University of Northern Iowa mission statement, the university's undergraduate programs are founded on a strong liberal arts curriculum. The liberal arts experience in the Liberal Arts Core exposes students to the broad areas of knowledge embodied in the whole of the environment and liberates students to further develop the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to live thoughtful, creative, and productive lives. The American Association of Colleges and Universities' "Statement on Liberal Learning" reflects the purposes of UNI’s Liberal Arts Core:

A truly liberal education is one that prepares us to live responsible, productive, and creative lives in a dramatically changing world. It is an education that fosters a well-grounded intellectual resilience, a disposition toward lifelong learning, and an acceptance of responsibility for the ethical consequences of our ideas and actions. Liberal education requires that we understand the foundations of knowledge and inquiry about nature, culture and society; that we master core skills of perception, analysis, and expression; that we cultivate a respect for truth; that we recognize the importance of historical and cultural context; and that we explore connections among formal learning, citizenship, and service to our communities.

We experience the benefits of liberal learning by pursuing intellectual work that is honest, challenging, and significant, and by preparing ourselves to use knowledge and power in responsible ways. Liberal learning is not confined to particular fields of study. What matters in liberal education is substantial content, rigorous methodology and an active engagement with the societal, ethical, and practical implications of our learning. The spirit and value of liberal learning are equally relevant to all forms of higher education and to all students.

Because liberal learning aims to free us from the constraints of ignorance, sectarianism, and short-sightedness, it prizes curiosity and seeks to expand the boundaries of human knowledge. By its nature, therefore, liberal learning is global and pluralistic. It embraces the diversity of ideas and experiences that characterize the social, natural, and intellectual world. To acknowledge such diversity in all its forms is both an intellectual commitment and a social responsibility, for nothing, less will equip us to understand our world and to pursue fruitful lives.

The ability to think, to learn, and to express oneself both rigorously and creatively, the capacity to understand ideas and issues in context, the commitment to live in society, and the yearning for truth are fundamental features of our humanity. In centering education upon these qualities, liberal learning is society’s best investment in our shared future.

(The Association of American Colleges and Universities’ “Statement on Liberal Learning,” 1999)

Requirements of the Liberal Arts Core*

(For all Bachelor's degrees - for Liberal Arts Core minimum hours and requirements for the Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) degree, refer to Bachelor of Applied Science degree in this section.)

Summary (minimum 44 hours* for all students, with the exception of those pursuing B.A.S. degree).

Category 1: Core Competencies *11
Category 2: Civilizations and Cultures9
Category 3: Fine Arts, Literature, Philosophy and Religion6
Category 4: Natural Science and Technology7
Category 5: Social Science9
Category 6: Capstone Experience2
Total Hours44
*

For students admitted to UNI prior to Fall 1994, the Speaking and Listening course included in the Core Competencies category is not required.

Courses

Category 1: Core Competencies    11 hours

Courses in written and oral communication enhance students’ abilities to read and listen critically and to write and speak effectively by attention to how the gathering, analyzing, and presenting of evidence and conclusions can be designed for specific purposes and audiences. Courses in quantitative techniques enhance students’ abilities to use quantitative data effectively and to apply relevant mathematical and statistical concepts and methods to diverse problems and situations. Personal wellness promotes the acquisition of knowledge and the development of skills and attitudes necessary for implementing positive health-related decisions.

A. Reading and Writing3
Select one of the following:
First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication I
and First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication II (Both UNIV 1000 & UNIV 1010 must be taken to meet LAC Category 1A & 1B.) *
College Writing and Research **
Introduction to Writing Studies ***
Critical Writing About Literature ^
B. Speaking and Listening3
First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication I
and First-Year Cornerstone: Integrated Communication II (Both UNIV 1000 & UNIV 1010 must be taken to meet LAC Category 1A & 1B.) *
or
Oral Communication
C. Quantitative Techniques and Understanding #3
Select one of the following:
Modern Tools for Exploring Data
Mathematics in Decision Making
Calculus I
Introduction to Statistical Methods
Introductory Statistics for Life Sciences
Elementary Education students may meet the Category 1C requirement by completing MATH 1204.
D. Dimensions of Wellbeing2
Dimensions of Wellbeing Lecture
Dimensions of Wellbeing Lab
Total Hours11
*

These two courses will be taught in a 2-semester sequence, and a student must successfully complete both UNIV 1000 and UNIV 1010 in their first year of college, or it will not apply to Category 1A/1B credit.

**

ENGLISH 1005 recommended for students with ACT English and Reading scores of 18-26.

***

ENGLISH 2015 has prerequisite of combined ACT English and Reading scores of 54 or higher.

^

ENGLISH 2120 recommended for English majors and minors with prerequisite of ACT English and Reading scores of 54 or higher.

#

Satisfactory score on ALEKS exam or subsequent remediation.

Category 2: Civilizations and Cultures    9 hours

Courses in this category promote an understanding of Western and non-Western cultures and civilizations from ancient times to the present through historical accounts, literatures, philosophies, religions, and fine arts. Using methods of critical inquiry, students explore aspects of human nature, the shaping of thoughts and values, and their interrelations. 

A. Humanities6
Humanities I: The Ancient, Classical, and Medieval Worlds
Humanities II: The Renaissance, Reformation, and Enlightenment
Humanities III: The Age of Revolution to the Present
B. Non-Western Cultures3
Russia/Soviet Union
Japan
Latin America
China
India
Middle East
Africa
Native North America
Native Central and South America
SPAN 3020 may substitute for the non-Western Cultures requirement.
Total Hours9

 

*

SPAN 3020 may substitute for the Non-Western Cultures requirement.


Category 3: Fine Arts, Literature, Philosophy and Religion    6 hours

Courses in this category explore diverse forms of human expression and enhance understanding of how religious, philosophical, literary, and aesthetic ideas and experiences shape and reflect cultures and common patterns of human life. Students will develop knowledge of the complex interplay of culture, history, and human experience through critical examination of ideas and beliefs, ritual and symbol, moral codes and social values, story and poetry, visual art, music, theater, and dance. 

A. Fine Arts *3
Survey of Dance History
The Theatrical Arts and Society
Soundscapes: Music in Culture
Visual Inventions
Visual Perceptions
ARTHIST 1111 or ARTHIST 1222 may substitute for the Fine Arts requirement for all art and graphic design majors.
MUS HIST 1020 may substitute for the Fine Arts requirement for all music majors.
THEATRE 3060 may substitute for the Fine Arts requirement for all theatre majors.
B. Literature, Philosophy, or Religion3
Literature: (topic)
Religions of the World
Introduction to German Literature in Translation
Total Hours6

Category 4: Natural Science and Technology    7 hours

Courses in natural science promote an understanding of science as a human process that investigates matter and energy acting within complex organic and inorganic systems. Fundamental principles of both physical and life sciences are included.

Students are required to take a course with a scheduled laboratory from either Life Sciences or Physical Sciences or another laboratory course offered by the College Humanities, Arts and Sciences. Only 6 hours are required for students who meet the Liberal Arts Core laboratory requirement with a course other than one listed in Life or Physical Sciences.

A. Life Sciences3-4
Select one of the following:
Bones & Stones: The Science of Human Origins
Life: The Natural World
Life: The Natural World - Lab *
Life: Continuity and Change
Life: Continuity and Change - Lab *
The following major and/or minor courses can substitute for the Life Sciences requirement:
Principles of Microbiology *
General Biology: Organismal Diversity *
General Biology: Cell Structure and Function *
Human Anatomy and Physiology I *
Inquiry into Life Science *
B. Physical Sciences3
Select one of the following:
Principles of Chemistry *
Molecules and Life *
Astronomy
Astronomy Laboratory *
Elements of Weather
Elements of Weather Laboratory *
Introduction to Geology *
Planet Earth
Planet Earth Laboratory *
Physics in Everyday Life
Physics in Everyday Life Laboratory *
Introduction to Sustainability
The following major and/or minor courses can substitute for the Physical Sciences requirement:
Chemical Technology *
General Chemistry I *
General Chemistry I-II *
General Physics I *
Physics I for Science and Engineering *
Inquiry into Earth and Space Science *
Inquiry into Physical Science *
Total hours7
*

Lab Course.

Category 5: Social Science    9 hours

Courses in this category introduce students to the description and analysis of human behavior from different vantage points, ranging from the societal, cultural, and historical to the institutional and individual perspectives.  There is also a focus on broadening one's understanding of diversity and global issues. In this category, students are exposed to a variety of social science disciplines, and learn how these fields study and analyze human attitudes, behaviors, and relationships.

Required: one course from group A, one course from group B, and one course from group C. 

A. Group A Sociocultural and Historical Perspectives3
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
Peoples, Cultures, and Environments
History of the United States
Introduction to Sociology
Women's and Gender Studies: Introduction
B. Group B Individual and Institutional Perspectives3
Introduction to Business Economics *
Human Identity and Relationships
Power & Politics in the U.S.
Introduction to Psychology
C. Group C Diversity and Global Issues3
Dynamics of Human Development
Global Geography
Political Problems in the U.S.: (topic)
International Relations
Social Problems
Women, Men, and Society
Global Social Work
American Racial and Minoritized Populations
Total Hours9
*

Satisfactory completion of both ECON 1041 and ECON 1051 may substitute for ECON 1031.

Category 6: Capstone Experience    2 hours

Capstone courses provide opportunities for students to synthesize the diverse realms of thought they have studied and to apply the intellectual proficiencies they have acquired. The emphasis is on cultivating life-long learning through linking theory and academic preparation to practical problem-solving activities in multidisciplinary seminars or community-based learning courses.

Prerequisite: junior standing.

The most current list of approved Liberal Arts Core Capstone courses is available in each semester’s Schedule of Classes. Also visit the website www.uni.edu/lac.

Administrative Policies:

  1. Liberal Arts Core courses may be used to satisfy requirements for both the Liberal Arts Core and the major, minor, and program emphases.
  2. Departments offering a Liberal Arts Core course may preclude their major or minor students from taking that particular course to satisfy the requirements for the Liberal Arts Core, the major, or the minor.
  3. Liberal Arts Core requirements can be met through CLEP examinations, departmental examinations, and the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board. A student who receives CLEP credit in both the physical and biological sciences shall be considered to have fulfilled the laboratory requirement.
  4. No Liberal Arts Core course may be taken for graduate credit.
  5. No Liberal Arts Core course may have a non-Liberal Arts Core course as a prerequisite.
  6. All courses taken to meet Liberal Arts Core requirements must be taken for graded credit.
  7. The Associate of Arts degree from Iowa community colleges shall continue to be accepted, according to an approved articulation agreement, to meet most Liberal Arts Core requirements.
  8. The Liberal Arts Core requirements apply to all undergraduate degree programs.
  9. Regents Articulation Agreement:
    The University of Northern Iowa, the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Iowa, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University agree to accept fulfillment of the Liberal Arts Core at any one of them as equivalent to completion of Liberal Arts Core requirements at another, with the following stipulations:
    1. This agreement does not apply to those students who transfer without having fully completed the Liberal Arts Core prior to transfer.
    2. Validation of fulfillment of Liberal Arts Core requirements requires that a student transferring must have met the transfer requirements of the receiving institution with respect to semester hours and grade point average.
    3. When a foreign language proficiency, a capstone course, and/or a course in foreign culture is required, whether within or in addition to the Liberal Arts Core, a student may meet this requirement at either institution regardless of the institution whose Liberal Arts Core requirements the student fulfills.
    4. Liberal Arts Core validation is the responsibility of the student transferring and will be completed upon request to the Registrar of the institution from which the student is transferring.

Program Certificates

The University of Northern Iowa makes available, in addition to traditional programs, the opportunity for students to earn program certificates. Program certificates provide an alternative to programs leading to a degree, a major, or a minor; they certify that an individual has completed a program approved by the university. Students pursuing a certificate on a non-degree seeking basis must have completed all certificate requirements at UNI. For further information concerning requirements for these certificates see specific departmental listings, or consult with the department listed or the Office of the Registrar, which serves as the centralized registry. Some of the certificates are interdisciplinary and involve several departments; however, only one department or college has been listed as the contact.

Program certificates now available include:

Department of Art

  • Museum Studies (also listed in Department of History)

Department of Applied Engineering & Technical Management

  • Technology Management

Department of Computer Science

  • Computer Science
  • Computer Science Education 

Department of Communication and Media

  • Communication Education and Training (graduate certificate)
  • Communication, Community, and Public Advocacy
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Organizational Communication and Inclusive Leadership
  • Organizational Communication and Training
  • Performance, Rhetoric, and Advocacy (graduate certificate)
  • Public Relations in Entertainment
  • Strategic Communication (graduate certificate)
  • Visual Communication and Digital Media (graduate certificate)

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

  • Learning Technology Facilitator

Department of Economics

  • Health Care Administration for Business Majors
  • Health Care Administration for Non-Business Majors

Department of Educational Psychology, Foundations, and Leadership Studies

  • Advanced Studies Certificate in Educational Leadership
    • Emphasis: Principalship
    • Emphasis: Superintendency Preparation Program
  • Schooling & the Future of Education

Department of Family, Aging & Counseling

  • Advanced Studies Certificate: Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Department of Finance

  • Commercial Banking
  • Financial and Real Estate Sales for Business Majors (also listed in Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship)
  • Financial Analysis (graduate certificate)

Department of Geography

  • Crime Mapping and Analysis (joint coordination with Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology)
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Cartography
  • Unmanned Aerial Systems

Department of History

  • History Social Sciences Endorsements-Teaching
  • Museum Studies (also listed in Department of Art)
  • Public History

Department of Health, Recreation and Community Services

  • Nonprofit Leadership
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Tourism
  • Youth Work in Religious Settings (also listed in Department of Philosophy and World Religions)

Department of Kinesiology & Athletic Training

  • Adapted Physical Education (graduate certificate)
  • Corporate Fitness
  • Exercise Science for Health Professionals
  • Tactical Strength and Conditioning

Department of Languages and Literatures

  • Chinese Studies
  • French Language Studies
  • Hispanic Cultures
  • International Commerce
  • Linguistic Studies
  • Literary Publishing
  • Post-Colonial and Multicultural Literary Studies
  • Spanish Language Studies
  • Spanish For Special Purposes
  • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Entrepreneurship (graduate certificate)
  • Financial and Real Estate Sales for Business Majors (also listed in Department of Finance)
  • Global Marketing (graduate certificate)

Department of Mathematics

  • Statistical Computing

School of Music

  • Artist Diploma (I)
  • Artist Diploma (II)

Department of Nursing & Public Health

  • Health Care Administration for Business Majors (also listed in Wilson College of Business and Department of Economics)
  • Health Care Administration for Non-Business Majors (also listed in Wilson College of Business and Department of Economics)
  • Community Nutrition
  • Environmental Health
  • Global Health
  • Health and Social Services
  • Women's Health
     

Department of Philosophy and World Religions

  • Religious Literacy
  • Youth Work in Religious Settings

Department of Physics

  • Physics Teaching

Department of Political Science

  • International Peace and Security
  • Public Personnel & Human Resources
  • State and Local Government

Department of Psychology

  • Military Psychology
  • Work Psychology

Department of Social Work

  • Addictions Treatment
  • Child Welfare

Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology

  • Crime Mapping and Analysis (joint coordination with Department of Geography)
  • Sociology of Family and Life Course
  • Sociology of Gender and Culture
  • Sociology of Health and Development
  • Sociology of Inequality and Inclusion
  • Sociology of Race/Ethnicity and Immigration

Department of Special Education

  • Inclusive Education
  • Special Education Instructional Coaching

Wilson College of Business

  • Business Fundamentals (graduate certificate)
  • CTE Information Technology-Teaching
  • International Business, Culture, and Language
  • Managerial Analytics (graduate certificate)
  • Strategic Leadership and Innovation (graduate certificate)

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

  • Graduate Certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies

Interdisciplinary

  • Applied Business Concepts (Continuing Education and Special Programs)
  • Interdisciplinary Studies (graduate certificate)
  • Sustainability

Undergraduate Studies

  • Career Success in Organizations (UNIFI)
  • Civic Literacy, Engagement, and the Humanities (UNIFI)
  • Creative Expression and Meaning (UNIFI)
  • Critical Thinking and Information Literacy (UNIFI)
  • Data Science (UNIFI)
     
  • Developmental Considerations (UNIFI)
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (UNIFI)
  • East Asia (UNIFI)
  • Innovation in Leadership (UNIFI)
  • Sustainability (UNIFI)
  • THRIVE! (UNIFI)
  • United States Studies (UNIFI)

Requirements for Graduation

In addition to the completion of one of the baccalaureate degree programs, there are other specific requirements for graduation which apply to all undergraduate students seeking any bachelor's degree, other than the Bachelor of Liberal Studies and Cooperative Programs. These are listed below. The acceptance and use of transfer credit are subject to limitations in accordance with existing educational policies of the University of Northern Iowa - refer to Transfer Credit Practices listed in the Admission Requirements section of this catalog. Refer to Graduate Degree Requirements for graduation requirements for a graduate degree program.

A. Residence

  1. At least 32 hours of credit earned in the junior and senior years in courses at this university.

B. Scholarship

  1. A student seeking the bachelor's degree with licensure to teach must successfully complete student teaching and achieve a cumulative grade index in all course work attempted, at this university and elsewhere, of at least 2.50 to be recommended for graduation. The student must also achieve a cumulative grade index of 2.50 on all work attempted at the University of Northern Iowa.
  2. A student seeking the bachelor's degree (without licensure) must achieve a cumulative grade index in all work attempted, at this university and elsewhere, of at least 2.00 to be recommended for graduation; the student must also achieve a cumulative grade index of 2.00 on all work attempted at the University of Northern Iowa.

Note: A student may be held by their academic department to specific grade point requirements, for the major work and/or graduation, which are higher than the grade point requirements for all university students. Students are advised to refer to the requirements for their specific major.

C. Communication

Competence in reading, speaking, and writing is required of all candidates seeking degrees or university recommendations for licensure. All students who enter UNI with or after the Fall 1988 semester who are candidates for baccalaureate degrees are required to demonstrate competence in writing by passing the UNIFI/General Education writing course and meeting the writing requirements for their academic major.

D. Foreign Language Competency Requirement

Students entering UNI who graduated from high school in 1989 or later are required to demonstrate a level of competence in a foreign language (classical or modern) equivalent to the second semester at the college level. One year of foreign language in high school is considered to be equivalent to one semester of foreign language at the university.

The foreign language competency requirement can be satisfied using credit in the following ways:

  1. satisfactory* completion of two years of high school study in one foreign language;
  2. satisfactory* completion of a combination of high school and college credit in one language equivalent to the second semester at the college level;
  3. satisfactory performance in an achievement examination measuring proficiency equivalent to the second semester of college study in one foreign language.
  4. satisfactory* completion of either two years of high school study or one year of college credit or the combined equivalent in American Sign Language (ASL). Study in any other language and culture for the hearing impaired will not automatically satisfy this graduation requirement.
*

Satisfactory completion means a minimum grade of C- in the last course taken to meet this requirement.

The following UNI course sequences will satisfy the foreign language competency requirement:

Additional language credit options may be offered, or be transferred to meet this UNI requirement. 

E. Advanced Courses

At least 10 hours of work in a major in courses numbered 3000/4000-level and taken at this university.

F. Maximum Credit by Examination

A maximum of 32 semester hours of credit earned by examination or by open credit is applicable toward degree requirements. This includes credit earned by CLEP, by departmental examination, by Advanced Placement, and credit established by examination of other colleges and universities.

G. Listing of Candidates for Graduation

A student may be listed as a candidate for graduation at the end of a semester if the completion of work for which the student is registered would meet all the requirements for graduation exclusive of grade points, and if the grade points to be earned do not exceed the number which could be earned for the hours for which the student is registered.

H. Application for Graduation

A student who expects to be graduated at the end of a semester must complete a graduation application at the opening of that semester. This application can be accessed through MyUniverse-Student Center and upon completion is filed with the Office of the Registrar.

I. Second Baccalaureate Degree (After First Baccalaureate Conferred)

A student may pursue a second baccalaureate degree after a first baccalaureate degree has been conferred. To receive a second baccalaureate degree after first baccalaureate degree has been conferred, a student must meet the requirements for the second degree (including A. Residence, B. Scholarship, E. Advanced Courses, F. Maximum Credit by Examination, G. Listing of Candidates for Graduation, and H. Application for Graduation  designated above), and earning a minimum of 32 hours of "new" credit at UNI.

For example: After evaluation of college transcript, student still needs 20 specified hours of coursework in the major to meet the requirements for that major. Student will need to earn from UNI, the 20 hours for the major (including 10 hours of upper level coursework), plus an additional 12 hours of new credit to meet the minimum 32 hours of credit required for a second baccalaureate degree.

J. Subsequent Major, Minor, or Certificate

A student may pursue a subsequent major on a non-degree seeking basis after an initial Baccalaureate degree has been conferred from UNI. Approval of the department of the additional major is needed before starting classes. Minors or certificates may be pursued on a non-degree seeking basis regardless of prior baccalaureate degree, with all minor or certificate coursework being taken at UNI.

All requirements for a subsequent program must be completed (required coursework, GPA requirements, etc.). A student will be classified as undergraduate, non-degree seeking status during the time to complete a subsequent program. At the completion of the program, a notation will be made on the student's transcript, but no additional diploma will be granted, nor will a change be made on the diploma received at the time of graduation for the first Baccalaureate degree.

If 32 or more hours are needed to complete the subsequent major, or if it would lead to a different degree (i.e. Bachelor of Science), the student must apply as a second Baccalaureate degree (see Second Baccalaureate Degree).

K. Two Concurrent Degrees

A student may pursue two different baccalaureate degrees concurrently. To receive two different degrees concurrently (i.e., B.A/B.S., B.A./B.Music), a student must meet all the requirements for both degrees, (including A. Residence, B. Scholarship, C. Communication, D. Foreign Language Requirement, E. Advanced Courses, F. Maximum Credit by Examination, G. Listing of Candidates for Graduation, and H. Application for Graduation designated above).

A student may have a double major, however the university does not grant two of the same degrees concurrently.

Additional Requirements for the Baccalaureate Teaching Program

  1. For the completion of any undergraduate curriculum the student must earn a minimum of twelve (12) semester hours of credit in student teaching at this university, except that an undergraduate student with three (3) or more semester hours of credit in student teaching earned at the same level in another college or university may be released from four (4) hours of student teaching at this institution.
  2. Not more than twelve (12) hours of credit in student teaching may be used toward the hours required for graduation.
  3. One year in advance of the time a student plans to enroll in student teaching, the student will be invited to attend a Student Teaching Roundup during which the student will complete the necessary steps to apply to student teach and to receive a student teaching assignment. To be eligible for assignment to a student teaching placement, the student must have completed the following requirements:
    1. FULL admission to the teacher education program;
    2. certificate in High Risk Behaviors/Substance Abuse;
    3. a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher on work at all colleges and universities;
    4. a UNI GPA of 2.50 or higher;
    5. a 2.50 GPA in the appropriate academic department or department approval;
    6. a grade of C- (1.67) or higher in each Professional Education Sequence course, effective January 1, 2009, and a GPA of 2.50 or higher across all such courses;
    7. completed all methods courses listed as prerequisites for student teaching with a grade of C (2.00) or higher as well as other departmental requirements;
    8. Health Education and Physical Education majors and minors are required to have current First Aid and CPR certification prior to student teaching.

The final student teacher assignment is based upon fulfillment of all established requirements as stated above, successful completion of Level l, Level II and Level III field experiences (minimum of 80 clock hours in PK-12 school settings), acceptable professional dispositions, and availability of placement.

Teaching Licensure

Teaching licenses are issued by state departments of education and are valid only in the state of issue. A college or university recommendation is required for issuance of a license.

Students in the UNI Teacher Education program must meet requirements for an Iowa teaching license if they are to be recommended for licensure from the University of Northern Iowa. At graduation they are eligible for the Initial License, valid for a period of two years for the kind of service indicated by the endorsement on the license; e.g., elementary and early childhood teaching, secondary teaching in content areas, or teaching in a special area such as art or music. The student usually can secure appropriate licensure in other states by making proper application and fulfilling any additional requirements.

In addition to holding a license valid for a specific teaching level, the secondary teacher must also have ENDORSEMENT in each subject to be taught. Endorsements are issued by the Iowa Department of Education on the recommendation of an institution. To secure the recommendation of the University of Northern Iowa, the student must meet the requirements for a teaching major or a teaching minor (or equivalent) in the subject. Exceptions are made only with the authorization of the university department offering the major or minor.

This university may recommend for licensure those graduates of other colleges or universities who have completed their professional education sequence courses here. However, this is a discretionary matter and the university will expect such students to demonstrate excellence of scholarship and meet standards required of its own graduates.

Program completion may include evaluations/assessments prescribed by the major, the Teacher Education Program, the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, and/or the Iowa Department of Education.

For additional information, contact:

Office of the Registrar
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0006

Students will need to work directly with the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners (BOEE) for an evaluation, sending transcripts, and recommendation for the following endorsements. UNI does not complete the recommendation for the following endorsements.

  • 105 K-8 Psychology
  • 106 PK-3 Teacher, PK-3 Classroom
  • 107 PK-12 Talented and Gifted
  • 110 K-8 Home Economics-General
  • 111 K-8 Typewriting/Keyboarding
  • 112 5-12 Agriculture
  • 115 5-12 Business-General
  • 116 5-12 Business-Office
  • 117  5-12 Business-Marketing/Management
  • 118 Driver and Safety Education
  • 121 K-8 Chinese
  • 122 5-12 Chinese
  • 123 K-8 French
  • 124 5-12 French
  • 125 K-8 German
  • 126 5-12 German
  • 127 K-8 Japanese
  • 128 5-12 Japanese
  • 129 K-8 Latin
  • 130 5-12 Latin
  • 131 K-8 Russian
  • 132 5-12 Russian
  • 135 K-8 Language (other)
  • 136 5-12 Language (other)
  • 139 5-12 Family and Consumer Sciences - General
  • 141 5-12 Journalism
  • 154 5-12 General Science
  • 155 5-12 Physical Science
  • 162 K-8 History
  • 167 K-8 Speech Communications/Theatre
  • 169 PK-8 Principal
  • 170 5-12 Principal
  • 175 PK-12 School Nurse
  • 176 K-12 Reading Specialist
  • 177 K-8 Norwegian
  • 178 5-12 Norwegian
  • 179 K-8 Italian
  • 180 5-12 Italian
  • 181 K-12 American Sign Language
  • 182 5-8 Middle School Generalist
  • 183 Evaluator Approval
  • 184 5-8 All Science
  • 187 K-8 Portuguese 
  • 188 9-12 Portuguese 
  • 198 K-8 Mildly Disabled
  • 199 5-12 Mildly Disabled
  • 200 PK-K Behavioral Disorders
  • 201 K-8 Behavioral Disorders
  • 202 5-12 Behavioral Disorders
  • 203 PK-K Mental Disabilities Mild/Moderate
  • 204 K-8 Mental Disabilities Mild/Moderate
  • 205 5-12 Mental Disabilities Mild/Moderate
  • 206 PK-K Mental Disabilities: Moderate/Severe/Profound
  • 207 K-12 Mental Disabilities: Moderate/Severe/Profound
  • 208 K-8 Learning Disabilities
  • 209 5-12 Learning Disabilities
  • 210 PK-K Physically Handicapped
  • 211 K-8 Physically Handicapped
  • 212 5-12 Physically Handicapped
  • 213 PK-K Hearing Impaired
  • 214 K-8 Hearing Impaired
  • 215 5-12 Hearing Impaired
  • 216 Hearing Impaired Itinerant
  • 217 PK-K Visually Impaired
  • 218 K-8 Visually Impaired
  • 219 5-12 Visually Impaired
  • 220 Visually Impaired Itinerant
  • 221 K-8 Multicategorical Resource Mild
  • 222 5-12 Multicategorical Resource Mild
  • 223 PK-K Early Child Special Education
  • 224 PK-K Multicategorical Special Class with Integration
  • 225 K-8 Multicategorical Special Class with Integration
  • 226 5-12 Multicategorical Special Class with Integration
  • 227 Speech/Language Teacher
  • 228 K-8 Multicategorical Resource - option 2 
  • 229 5-12 Multicategorical Resource - option 2 
  • 230 Itinerant Hospital/Home Services
  • 231 Special Education Media Specialist
  • 232 PK-K Supervisor Special Education /Early Childhood
  • 233 K-12 Supervisor Special Education /Instruction
  • 234 5-12 Work Experience Coordinator
  • 235 B-21 School Audiologist
  • 239 Director Special Education
  • 240 B-21 School Social Worker
  • 241 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Mental Disabilities
  • 242 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Behavioral Disorders
  • 243 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Learning Disabilities
  • 244 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Physically Handicapped
  • 245 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Hearing Impaired
  • 246 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Visually Impaired
  • 247 Birth-6 Consultant: Early Childhood Special Education
  • 248 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Multicategorical Resource
  • 249 Ages 5-21 Consultant: Multicategorical Resource-Special Cla
  • 251 PK-K Educational Strategist
  • 252 K-8 Educational Strategist
  • 253 5-12 Educational Strategist
  • 254 Supervisor-School Audiologist
  • 255 Supervisor-School Psychologist
  • 256 Supervisor-School Social Worker
  • 257 Supervisor Speech/Lang Pathologist
  • 258 Professional Service Administrator
  • 263 K-12 Instructional Strategist II: BD/LD
  • 265 K-12 Instructional Strategist II: Physically Handicapped
  • 267 Birth-21 Visually Impaired 
  • 280 5-12 Physiology
  • 299 5-12 General Health Occupations
  • 300 5-12 Agriscience/Agribusiness
  • 301 5-12 Marketing/Distributive Education
  • 302 5-12 Office Education
  • 303 5-12 Consumer/Homemaking Education
  • 304 5-12 Occupational Family and Consumer Science
  • 305  5-12 Multioccupations
  • 306 5-12 Health Occupations
  • 973 School Business Official
  • 974 5-12 Engineering
  • 977 K-12 STEM Specialist
  • 978 Content Area Specialist
  • 979 SAM Authorization
  • 1181 Authorized for driving instruction not classroom
  • 1201 5 - 12 Language Arts - All
  • 1421 5-8 Algebra for H.S. Credit
  • 1751 PK-12 School Nurse
  • 2404 Physical Therapist
  • 2405 Occupational Therapist
  • 2406 Special Education Nurse
  • 2407 Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Board of Educational Examiners
Grimes State Office Building
400 E. 14th St.
Des Moines, Iowa 50319-0147
Website: www.boee.iowa.gov

Hours of Credit Needed to Renew or Reinstate a License

Renewal and reinstatement requirements are established by the Iowa State Board of Educational Examiners and are subject to change by that body at any time. The Bureau of Practitioner Preparation and Development of the Department of Education distributes information concerning all changes in licensure requirements to city superintendents and to the teacher-education institutions. Information concerning the renewal or reinstatement requirements may be obtained from the:

Board of Educational Examiners
Grimes State Office Building
400 E. 14th St.
Des Moines, Iowa 50319-0147
Website: www.boee.iowa.gov