Approved degree programs are defined under Section 2 of the Teacher Certification Regulations:
“Degree Program” means a program of studies to receive:
- a graduate diploma,
- a masters in
- a teachable subject as defined in the Public School Program (PSP), or
- education, or
- a doctoral degree from a recognized university.
A joint committee was formed in the late 1990s made up of members of the Minister's Advisory Council on Teacher Certification. The committee used the Public School Program to establish teachable subjects. The Minister approved these teachable subjects in 1999. They are as follows:
- English
- French
- Latin
- German
- Spanish
- Gaelic
- Mi'kmaq Language
- History
- Geography
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Economics
- Law
- Classics
- African Canadian Studies
- Mi'kmaq Studies
- Acadian Studies
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Geology/ Earth Sciences
- Oceanography
- Environmental Studies
- Physical Education
- Health Education
- Visual Arts
- Music
- Drama
- Dance
- Theatre Arts
- Technology Education
- Computer Science
- Business Administration
- Commerce
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Finance
- Organizational Behaviour
- Secretarial Arts
- Foods and Nutrition
- Family Dynamics
- Textiles/Housing
Please note - with regards to a masters in a teachable subject area as defined by the PSP programs must conform closely to the PSP listing of academic subject disciplines and fields. For example, Health Education is a teachable discipline in Nova Scotia but Health Administration is not, so Health Administration programs would not meet the requirements for upgrade program approval. The Office of Teacher Certification would write to inform you accordingly should you submit a request for program approval.
Some suggestions you may wish to consider before applying for program pre-approval:
- Please know the courses included in each program and make sure they meet with your study plans.
- Before considering any upgrading program (degree or one of the other upgrading options) a tentative career development plan is recommended so that your studies will have a purpose and direction.
- Review the program to ensure the studies provides the best option for your career plan.