Biology with Secondary Certification, BS
The Bachelor of Science in Biology with Secondary Certification program prepares you to teach in grades 7-12. We train scientists that can teach, not teachers that know a little science. Shippensburg University is a great place to study to become a biology teacher because its secondary education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the National Science Teachers Association. It also has the only public elementary lab school in the state.
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What Will I Learn?
You will complete the requirements for the biology major while taking education courses required for certification. You will primarily focus on biology, but you will be exposed to chemistry and physics as well. Core courses in education address the history of education in the United States, special education and accommodations, reading strategies, education law and science-specific pedagogy for secondary (grades 7-12) classrooms.
Meet Rosalia Cappadora '20
"Being a biology major allows you to explore all sciences. While being grounded in biology, I was exposed to many diverse tracks and I was able to solidify my path in science education."What are the requirements for this degree?
You will need to earn your biology degree with the general education component and complete your professional education requirements. You must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program and be formally admitted into the teacher education program after your sophomore year.
What Types of Careers Could I Get With This Degree?
You will prepare to become a teacher in grades 7-12, but because you are also a biologist, you can work as a biologist, or continue your education and go to graduate or medical school.
What Career Outcomes Do Alumni Have With This Degree?
What Kinds of Experiences Could I Have?
As you prepare to become a teacher, you will participate in hands-on learning experiences such as:
- Observation of classes in middle schools and high schools
- Observations of physically challenged and exceptional learners
- Student teaching placements
As you complete the requirements for the biology major, you have access to:
- Your professors, with the ability to form close relationships thanks to small class sizes
- Research opportunities
- Hands-on experiences at nearby federal and state research labs, state forests and parks, and medical institutions
Ship also has a charter membership of the Marine Science Consortium located at Wallops Island, Virginia, which leads to great opportunities for oceanographic study and research opportunities.