For those passionate about the natural reward, choose the rewarding and impactful career choice of becoming a biology teacher. By imparting knowledge to students, you can inspire a new generation of scientists, foster a deep appreciation for biodiversity, and promote environmental stewardship. Teaching biology also allows you to constantly engage with cutting-edge research and discoveries while honing your communication and problem-solving skills. Ultimately, as a biology teacher, you play a crucial role in shaping the future by equipping students with the knowledge and curiosity to explore the wonders of life and contribute to scientific advancements and a sustainable future.
Along with earning a degree to teach Biology, you have the option to add a Chemistry or Earth Science minor to broaden your career options.
The demand for qualified biology teachers is typically steady, offering a relatively stable career path with opportunities for advancement. Check out our program offerings today!
BIOLOGY EDUCATION MAJOR COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Required Core - 18 semester hours
Electives
Two courses from two different emphases must be taken. Environmental Science Students must take BIOL 311/L. Cell/Physiology students must take BIOL 343/L.
Environmental Biology Emphasis
- BIOL 301/L Plant Systematic & Lab
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BIOL 302 Animal Behavior
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BIOL 311/L Principles of Ecology & Lab
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BIOL 321 Conservation
- BIOL 355/L Mammalogy & Lab
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BIOL 357/L Invertebrate Zoology & Lab
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BIOL 405/L Entomology & Lab
- BIOL 415/L Mycology & Lab
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BIOL 434/L Herpetology & Lab
- BIOL 437 Biometry
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BIOL 461/L Agrostology& Lab
- BIOL 462/L Dendrology & Lab
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BIOL 463/L Ornithology & Lab
Cellular/Physiology Emphasis
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BIOL 317/L Electron Microscopy & Lab
- BIOL 325/L Physiology & Lab
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BIOL 331/L Microbiology & Lab
- BIOL 343/L Cell & Molecular Biology & Lab
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BIOL 381/L Vertebrate Anatomy & Lab
- BIOL 422 Immunology
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BIOL 430/L Neurobiology & Lab
- BIOL 437 Biometry
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BIOL 460/L Plant Ecophysiology and Soils & Lab
- BIOL 474/L Introductory Genomics & Lab
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SCI 388 Global Positioning & Geographical Info Systems
Pre-Professional Teaching Core - 15 semester hours
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EDFN 295 - Practicum: Pre-Admission Teaching
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EDFN 338 - Foundations of American Education
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EPSY 302 - Educational Psychology
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EPSY 428 - Child & Adolescent Development
- PSYC 101 - General Psychology
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SPED 100 - Intro to Persons with Exceptionalities
Professional Secondary Ed Teaching Core - 32 semester hours
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EDFN 365 Computer-Based Technology & Learning
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EDFN 375 Methods of Technology Integration
- EDFN 475 Human Relations
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INED 411 South Dakota Indian Studies
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MLED 480 Middle Level Methods
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SEED 408 Plan, Manage, and Assess the Diverse K-8 Classroom
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SEED 413 7-12 Science Methods
- SEED 440 Classroom Management
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SEED 450 7-12 Reading and Content Literacy
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SEED 495 Practicum: Pre-Student Teaching
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SEED 488 7-12 Student Teaching
Gen Ed Requirements - 30 semester hours
- Gen Ed - Natural Sciences & Lab (2 classes - see major)
A minor is NOT required with this major, but electives are required to total 120 hours, of which 36 hours must be 300-400 level courses.
**Course requirements may vary by academic year. To view the requirements for your academic year, please visit Registration & Records for status sheets.**
Status Sheets
Minor in Chemistry - Teaching - Course Requirements
23 semester hours
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CHEM 112/L General Chemistry I & Lab
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CHEM 114/L General Chemistry II & Lab
- CHEM 326/L Organic Chemistry I & Lab
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CHEM 328/L Organic Chemistry II & Lab
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CHEM 332/L Analytical Chemistry & Lab
OR
CHEM 465/L Biochemistry II & Lab
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SEED 413 7-12 Science Methods
**Course requirements may vary by academic year. To view the requirements for your academic year, please visit Registration & Records for status sheets.**
Status Sheets
Minor in Earth Science - Teaching - Course Requirements
22 semester hours
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GEOL 201/L Physical Geology & Lab
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GEOL 203 Historical Geology & Lab
- CHEM 326/L Organic Chemistry I & Lab
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CHEM 328/L Organic Chemistry II & Lab
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CHEM 332/L Analytical Chemistry & Lab
OR
CHEM 465/L Biochemistry II & Lab
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SEED 413 7-12 Science Methods
**Course requirements may vary by academic year. To view the requirements for your academic year, please visit Registration & Records for status sheets.**
Status Sheets
