Computer Science Education
Computer Science in Iowa
Computer science is increasingly a must‑have skill for every K–12 student. Whether it’s exploring computer systems, working with data, learning to program, or understanding the power and limitations of AI, today's students need to understand computer science. As schools across Iowa add more computer science as both stand-alone and integrated coursework, the demand for confident, well‑prepared CS teachers is growing.
UNI’s Computer Science Education program gives teachers the tools they need to lead the way. We offer opportunities ranging from learning more about a single topic to a full pathway for earning your Computer Science Endorsement. Coursework is standards-driven, rigorous, and most importantly, affordable.
Online and in-person instruction
While the majority of the instruction and work is completed online, we feel strongly that you need time to interact with your professors and your peers. Thus, each course includes a limited number of face-to-face sessions to facilitate this interaction. These sessions are a combination of synchronous online meetings and, when applicable, actual face-to-face meetups at an AEA near you!
All in all, CSEd@UNI is the right mix of content, interaction, and sustained inquiry to help you succeed as a CS teacher.
Get more information on the CS Endorsements.
Educators interested in learning more about the program or wanting to be notified when registration opens for the next cohort can use the following Teacher Interest Form or can contact Dr. Ben Schafer at ben.schafer@uni.edu.
Why CSEd@UNI?
It just makes sense to study computer science at UNI – the state’s leader in teacher preparation.
The CSEd@UNI program was the first teacher preparation program in the state and is built on over a decade of work with in-service and pre-service teachers. Our courses were carefully designed to align with CSTA Standards for K-12 Students as well as the CSTA Standards for CS Teachers. These are courses designed specifically for educators and carefully address the knowledge needed to work with today’s students.