2026 Fall: Astronomy for Teachers - Online Endorsement Course

Course Description

Explore our place in the universe and the evidence astronomers use to understand the cosmos. Topics include the solar system, stars, galaxies, cosmology, and current discoveries in astronomy, culminating in the question: Are we alone in the universe?

This college-level course meets Utah Science Endorsement requirements for:

• Earth Science 1

• Physics 2

• Grades 6–8 Core Science

The course integrates astronomy content with the Utah SEEd Standards and NGSS, emphasizing Science and Engineering Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Disciplinary Core Ideas. Participants will deepen their content knowledge while developing effective instructional strategies through lesson plan development.

Time Commitment: Approximately 6–8 hours per week.

Note: This course does not satisfy Utah's separate Three-Dimensional Science and Engineering Pedagogical Knowledge course requirement.

Course Format

• 12-week online course

• Fixed schedule (not self-paced)

• Weekly modules must be completed on time

• Earn 3 semester credits through Southern Utah University (SUU) upon successful completion

Registration, Costs & Reimbursement Important Notice

The Utah State Endorsement Incentive Program is currently scheduled to end after Spring 2029. Beginning then, UtSTA endorsement courses will cost $1,500, with no reimbursement provided by the State or UtSTA.

Course Cost

• Contracted Utah public school educators who are current UtSTA members: $50 registration fee (refundable upon successful completion).

• All other participants: $700 non-refundable course fee.

Participants seeking university credit must also register with Southern Utah University (SUU). The $69 SUU credit fee is reimbursed for eligible participants who successfully complete the course with a C (74%) or higher. Registration instructions will be emailed after enrollment.

Reimbursement

Contracted Utah public school educators who earn a C (74%) or higher will receive reimbursement for:

• The $50 UtSTA registration fee

• The $69 SUU credit fee

Participants who are not contracted Utah public school educators are not eligible for reimbursement.

Membership Requirement

Current membership in the Utah Science Teachers Association (UtSTA) is required to enroll.

Grading

A minimum grade of C (74%) is required to successfully complete the course and qualify for reimbursement (if eligible).

Cancellation & Withdrawal

If you cancel or withdraw 14 days or more after the course begins:

• You are responsible for the remaining course balance of $650.

• Registration and university credit fees are non-refundable.

• A Withdrawal (W) will appear on your SUU transcript.