The B.S. Biology Secondary Education Concentration Program is designed for students
who love biology and have a passion for sharing their knowledge.
The Biology Secondary Education Program prepares students for successful teaching
careers in middle school or high school. Program graduates have excellent backgrounds
in biology and related sciences, plus extensive experience in educational theory and
practice to prepare them for teacher certification.
Requirements for certification include successful completion of coursework in biology,
chemistry, physics, and math, along with courses in education. Upon completing their
courses, students engage in a semester of student teaching that includes experience
at both a middle school and a high school. Student teachers work closely with a cooperating
teacher at one of our partner schools, and are mentored by faculty from both the Biology
and the Professional and Secondary Education departments. The Biology faculty advisor
guides students in mastering the science content, and Professional and Secondary Education
faculty members mentor their development as effective teachers. Program graduates
are eligible for secondary education certification and readily find teaching positions
in Pennsylvania or New Jersey.
Why ESU?
- ESU biology courses are taught by faculty members who have doctorates in biology and
expertise in diverse specialty areas such as ecology, environmental sciences, botany,
zoology, marine science, and microbiology.
- Class sizes are small, particularly for labs, and students have the opportunity to
interact closely with their professors and classmates.
- Students receive personalized mentoring by faculty members in the sciences and in
education.
- ESU provides student teaching opportunities at dozens of schools in Pennsylvania and
New Jersey.
- Successful completion of the program leads to state certification as a teacher in
Pennsylvania or New Jersey.
- ESU has extensive partnerships with area schools to assist graduates with obtaining
employment.
What You'll Learn
- Students take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math that provide an excellent
background in science for successful teaching.
- Students take courses in psychology and education to learn the skills they will need
as classroom teachers.
- Students receive placement in a culminating semester-long student teaching experience
in local schools.
Careers Opportunities
ESU’s Biology Secondary Education majors have an excellent track record of getting
teaching positions in middle schools and high schools in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Our alumni earn positions in:
- College Program Director
- Fitness and Wellness Coordinator
- High School Teacher
- Instructional Specialist
- Middle School Teacher
- Preschool Teacher
