Social Sciences Endorsements
Inspire students to think critically about the past, present, and future. Drake’s Social Sciences endorsements prepare you to teach a range of subjects that include history, government, and economics across elementary and secondary classrooms, with flexible options to fit your path in education.
Drake offers several endorsements in the field of social sciences.
- All Social Studies Endorsement (5-12)
- American Government Endorsement (5-12)
- American History Endorsement (5-12)
- Basic Social Studies (5-12)
- Economics (5-12)
- History Endorsement (K-8)
- Psychology (5-12)
- Social Studies Endorsement (K-8)
- Sociology (5-12)
- World History Endorsement (5-12)
Programs that pair with these Endorsements
The elementary level endorsements, Social Studies and History, are available in combination with the following degree programs.
The secondary level endorsements, All Social Studies, American History, American Government and World History, are available in combination with the following degree programs.
How to Choose the Right Social Science Endorsement
As a future educator pursuing a teaching degree in Iowa, it’s important to understand how your endorsement choices will impact your job opportunities. If you are planning to teach in social studies, you may be trying to decide between three common endorsement paths:
- Basic Social Science (5-12) Endorsement
- All Social Sciences (5-12) Endorsement
- Single-Subject Endorsements (e.g., American History, World History, Government, Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Geography, etc.)
While single-subject endorsements may allow you to specialize in an area you’re passionate about, school districts are often looking to hire teachers who are more flexible and can teach a range of social studies courses. This is especially true in smaller or rural districts, where you may be expected to teach more than one subject (e.g., U.S. History and Government, or World History and Economics).
The Basic or All Social Sciences endorsements provide greater marketability because they allow you to be considered for a wider variety of teaching positions. These endorsements show employers that you’re qualified to teach multiple content areas within the broader field of social studies, making you a more attractive and versatile candidate.
In short:
➡ If you want to maximize your job prospects after graduation, pursuing a Basic or All Social Sciences endorsement is your best option.
➡ You’ll still get to teach in areas you enjoy, but you’ll also be prepared and credentialed to teach across a broader spectrum if needed.
If you’re unsure which endorsement is right for you, talk to your advisor early and often so you can make strategic decisions about your coursework and field experiences.
Ready to Apply?
- Applications are reviewed on an on-going basis; therefore, it is requested that all materials be submitted approximately 8 weeks prior to the beginning of the intended start-term.
- Upon the receipt of transcripts, an advisor will complete a transcript evaluation in order to determine any credit or course substitutions/transfers.
- In order to begin the application process, please select the apply link below. This link will provide you application requirements. Questions regarding the application process can be forwarded to the Coordinator of Graduate Admission at soegradadmission@drake.edu or 515-271-2552.
Questions about this Endorsement?
History Endorsement
Kevin Lam, PhD
Associate Professor, Teaching and Learning
kevin.lam@drake.edu
1-800-44-DRAKE, x2324
515-271-2324
Social Studies Endorsement
Amber Graeber, PhD
Assistant Professor
amber.graeber@drake.edu
515-271-2618