Biology Teacher Education
Total graduates
669
2025 · 141 schools
International share
4.8%
32 international students
Bachelor's degrees
291
1.0% international
Master's degrees
377
7.7% international
Overview
Biology Teacher Education is a specialized program designed to prepare future educators to teach biology at various educational levels, primarily in middle and high schools. This program combines a solid foundation in biological sciences with pedagogical training, equipping students with both content knowledge and teaching skills essential for effective science education.
Students in Biology Teacher Education typically study a range of biological topics, including cellular biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution, alongside courses in chemistry and earth sciences to provide a well-rounded science background. In addition to biological sciences, students engage in educational psychology, curriculum development, and instructional methods tailored for science education. This dual focus ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable in biological concepts but also adept at teaching methodologies that foster student engagement and understanding.
Field experience is a crucial component of the program, with students often participating in internships or student-teaching assignments in local schools. This hands-on training allows future educators to apply their knowledge in real classroom settings, develop classroom management skills, and learn how to create inclusive and stimulating learning environments.
Graduates of Biology Teacher Education are well-prepared to enter the teaching workforce, where they can inspire the next generation of scientists and promote a deeper understanding of biological principles. Ultimately, this program plays a vital role in enhancing science education and fostering a scientifically literate society, addressing the growing need for qualified science educators in an ever-evolving educational landscape.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2002 to 2025, graduates grew 27% and the international share went from 2.7% to 4.8%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 141 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 1,065,210 | — | $76,320 |
| Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 620,090 | — | $72,030 |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | 60,830 | — | $79,350 |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 50,190 | — | $102,840 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.