Computer Science Endorsement

Program Details

Drake offers elementary and secondary computer science endorsement programs. Both programs require five 3-credit classes for a total of 15 credits. One of the classes, STEM 286, is offered only during the summer. Two other classes, STEM 283/CS 130 and STEM 284/CS 160, can be taken to address the same content, which would result in 18 credits in total.

We welcome the opportunity to sponsor teachers who are endorsement-only, meaning that you do not need to pursue a degree program in addition to the computer science endorsement if you are already a licensed teacher. If you have taken computer sciences courses at other locations, we will review those classes and see how they can contribute towards your computer science endorsement.  

Endorsement Courses

• STEM 280/CS 65 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE I
  3 credit hrs.
• STEM 281/CS 66 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE II
  3 credit hrs.
  Prerequisite: STEM 280/CS 065 or equivalent.
• STEM 282/CS 67 OBJECT-ORIENTED PROGRAMMING
  3 credit hrs.
  Prerequisite: STEM 281/CS 066 or equivalent.
• STEM 285/CS 145: METHODS OF TEACHING K-12 COMPUTER SCIENCE
  3 credit hrs.
  Prerequisite: Experience in one programming language.
• STEM 286/CS 195: Introduction to Computer Systems
  3 credit hrs.
  Prerequisite: STEM 280/CS 65 or equivalent.

Course descriptions: https://www.drake.edu/cs/courses/

During the summer, the School of Education typically offers two endorsement classes tailored specifically to teachers. During the academic year, courses are available for undergraduate and graduate education majors and computer science majors.

To pursue the Computer Science Specialist endorsement, 24 credit hours of computer science classes are required in addition to completing Drake’s core education curriculum and a computer science methods course. This endorsement is appropriate for people with significant coursework in computer science who are not currently teachers. Courses that count toward this endorsement need to be approved by a Drake academic advisor.

Program Contacts

Maryann Huey, PhD
Associate Professor, Mathematics
maryann.huey@drake.edu
1-800-44-DRAKE, x2839
515-271-2839

Learn More

• Financial Aid
  • Iowa teacher shortage areas are designated annually by the Iowa Department of Education. Teachers in shortage areas may be eligible for college student forgiveable loans through both state and federal programs. Information regarding application for forgivable loans is available at the Iowa College Student Aid Commission website. 
• Tuition and Fees
• Drake University is the home for the South Central Iowa STEM Hub.  For more information about this initiative visit the South Central Iowa STEM Hub website.