About the Program
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science for K–12 Education at the University of South Florida prepares highly qualified educators to teach computer science across all K–12 grade levels in Florida. This program integrates foundational and advanced computer science concepts—including computational thinking, programming logic, programming languages, data types and structures, hardware, software, and networking—along with the historical, social, and ethical dimensions of computing.
Candidates also develop expertise in computer science pedagogy, learning to design instruction that is rigorous, equitable, and aligned with state and national standards. The curriculum emphasizes effective classroom management, differentiated instruction, formative and summative assessment, and the use of instructional technologies to enhance student learning.
Through structured field experiences and internships, students apply their knowledge in real classrooms, completing performance-based Teacher Work Samples that demonstrate their ability to design and implement lessons, assess student learning, and reflect on instructional effectiveness. Graduates leave the program ready to meet Florida K–12 certification requirements, lead innovative classroom experiences, and foster the next generation of technologically literate and computationally skilled students.
This program equips educators to:
- Apply research-based strategies to teach computer science concepts and skills across diverse K–12 classrooms.
- Integrate computational thinking, coding, and problem-solving across curricula and grade levels.
- Design, implement, and assess standards-aligned instruction using multiple assessment modes, including pre-assessments, formative assessments, and post-assessments.
- Utilize technology and digital tools effectively to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Reflect critically on their teaching practice to continuously improve instruction and student achievement.
Graduates are prepared for careers as K–12 computer science teachers, STEM specialists, instructional technology coordinators, and other educational roles that require expertise in computer science and pedagogy.
University Admissions - College of Education
Admission to the University is based on the University’s Undergraduate Admission Requirements that may be found by clicking on the following URLs:
Admission Requirements - College of Education
Educator preparation programs are ideal for students who wish to become classroom teachers as these programs are designed to result in eligibility for teacher certification in the state of Florida. Students seeking admission are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor in the college on their home campus.
Effective July 1, 2021, the State of Florida changed college admission requirements regarding the General Knowledge Test (GKT). The GKT is no longer required for admission to an educator preparation program. However, the college advises students to prepare for and pass the GKT upon declaring their major in education. Passing the GKT or appropriate substitute ACT or SAT subtests is required for graduation from the state-approved program and to obtain Florida teacher certification.
Students seeking admission into any of our educator preparation programs must satisfy the following:
Successful admission to the University of South Florida
Complete the University of South Florida’s General Education requirements (see General Education Information in the catalog)
Students with an AA degree from a Florida public institution will meet all general education requirements. However, general education courses with a grade below C- will need to be repeated for a grade of C- or better to fulfill prerequisites for the College of Education.
Earn a minimum overall GPA of 2.50 (on a 4.0 scale)
Complete or be currently enrolled in appropriate prerequisite coursework for the student’s intended major.
Submit a College of Education application.
For former students returning to the college after being inactive, please be aware of the Time Limit for Coursework policy under Additional Information.
Required Courses: (60 credit hours)
State Mandated Common Course Prerequisites (3 credit hours)
Following Florida BOG Regulation 8.010, state mandated common course prerequisites are lower-division courses that are required for progression into the upper division of a particular baccalaureate degree program.
Transfer students should complete the State Mandated Common Course Prerequisites at the lower level prior to entering the university. If these courses are not taken at a Florida College System institution, they must be completed before the degree is granted. Successful completion of the common prerequisites alone does not guarantee a student admission into the degree program.
Unless stated otherwise, a grade of C- is the minimum acceptable grade in prerequisite courses.
EDF X005 Introduction to Education – 3 credit hours
State Mathematics Pathway Requirement(s) (6 credit hours)
The program uses the Mathematical Thinking in Context Mathematics Pathway with the below requirements. Students may also complete this requirement with any one State Gen Ed Math (SGEM) and any one USF Gen Ed Math (UGEM).
Major Core Courses: 17 course(s); 60 credit hour(s)
Professional Education Courses: 7 courses; 21 credits
Specialization Courses: 10 courses; 39 credit hours
Program Portfolio Requirements
The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation standards through the CAEP Accreditation system require all accredited programs to document individual student performance based on state and national standards. Students are required to demonstrate their achievement of state standards with portfolio assessment one time during coursework and one time during final internship. This program requires Florida Educator Accomplished Practices portfolio. Students are required to upload their critical assignments to the CampusFolio system for instructors to grade. Students must reach 80% proficiency on all critical assignments to pass the course. Each submission is evaluated by the course instructor.
Additional Information - Computer Science Education (K-12) B.S.
GPA Requirements
Once admitted, students must maintain a 2.5 or higher overall GPA and earn a 2.5 or higher in all upper-level coursework in the major including Core and Specialization courses. If a student falls below 2.50 GPA they may be dismissed and/or may be required to meet with the departmental Professional Standards Committee.
Grading Requirements
Students must earn a grade of C- or higher in all required courses to progress to the following semester or they may be dismissed and/or required to meet with departmental Professional Standards Committee.
Residency Requirement
A student must complete 32 hours of major coursework at USF to meet residency requirements.
Time Limit for Coursework - College of Education
The College of Education reserves the right to determine whether courses five years or older can be applied toward a degree based on the following guidelines:
- Courses completed within the last five years may be accepted toward graduation.
- Courses completed over five years but less than ten years ago must have the approval of the chairperson from the department in which the equivalent course is taught.
- Courses completed ten years ago or longer will count as elective credit only toward graduation.
Other Information
Please be advised that program and/or course requirements are subject to change, per state legislative mandates, Florida State Department of Education program approval standards, and accreditation criteria.
Students will be required to pay for costs in addition to tuition, fees, and books such as:
- Transportation to and from school sites required in courses and internships
- Criminal background checks and fingerprinting for internships
- Assignments in some classes (e.g., printing/binding of group project reports, academic and professional portfolio, digital recording equipment, etc.)
Graduation Requirements - College of Education (EPP)
The College of Education strives to ensure students graduate in a timely fashion and without incurring unnecessary debt. To graduate, students should take the following steps:
- Meet with your academic advisor each semester to review your progress toward degree
- Successfully complete all state, university, and program requirements
- Earn 120 credit hours
- Earn a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
- Complete any required certification exams*
- Apply to graduate
* Students seeking to graduate from a state-approved educator preparation program must attain passing scores on all portions of the FTCE exams.
Students who graduate prior to attaining passing scores on all portions of the FTCE will not receive the state-approved educator preparation program with respective endorsements statement on their official transcript.
Research Opportunities - College of Education
Undergraduate students in any degree program are able to participate in undergraduate research. Several options exist to show mentored undergraduate research activity on a student’s official transcript. Those who wish to enroll in an undergraduate research course should consult with their academic advisor to understand how the credit will apply towards the degree requirements. If no credit is needed, students may be eligible to enroll in the 0-credit IDS 4914 - Advanced Undergraduate Research Experience course. This course will not impact degree credits or GPA but will show on an official transcript and document the experience. The Office of Student Engagement in Research and Innovation (SERI) is able to assist with further inquiries.
Plans of Study - Computer Science Education (K-12) B.S.
Return to: