concentration in

Biology Education Grades 6-12

Biological Science

As a biology education major at McNeese, you’ll graduate ready to step into your profession with initial teacher certification.

Program Highlights

Biology Education Program Highlights

The curriculum for the Bachelor of Science degree in biological science, with a concentration in biology education grades 6–12, offers a well-rounded foundation in biology and the educational practices necessary to be a successful teacher, including planning, instruction and classroom engagement and management. Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation, this degree fulfills all current Louisiana state-mandated standards and program requirements.

The value of a teaching degree in biology

Well respected in Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas, McNeese State University has one of the lowest tuition rates in the state. Demand for certified teachers in secondary science classrooms is high, and, with a biology education degree from McNeese’s Department of Biology, you will be highly marketable for teaching jobs while also enjoying a community of alumni and professors who can provide a support throughout your career.

At a Glance

Degree Type: Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Degree Program: Biological Science

Program Length: 4 years (120 credit hours)

Availability: in person

Program Overview

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Program overview

Explore More for Biology Education Majors

McNeese has partnered with two nationwide education consulting firms to keep the curriculum in the biology program up to date with the most current research-based practices in the field of education, including technological tools, competency-based assessments, special education course work and techniques for supporting diverse student body. With the addition of online classes and expansion of hands-on learning opportunities, McNeese continues to be a first choice in biology degrees for teaching.

Financial aid and scholarships:

More than 17 program scholarships are available specifically for biology education majors. Learn more from the Office of Financial Aid.

Applied learning:

Supported by faculty members, undergraduate students complete more than 145 hours of field experience focusing on a variety of classroom topics.

Residency:

With classroom management and teaching support from an assigned faculty member, university evaluator and state-certified Mentor Teacher, you will complete a two-semester residency that familiarizes you with the culture of a classroom, student growth, and teacher expectations from the beginning of the school year to the end. This residency includes evaluations and feedback to help you improve your teaching practices, as well as develop a performance portfolio with a service-learning project.

Excellence with a personal touch:

The biology degree with a concentration in education exemplifies McNeese’s motto with small classes led by award-winning and highly qualified faculty, a designated program advisor who will help you achieve what you need for a teaching degree, academic advisors and instructors who are available on campus and online.

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Careers and Opportunities

What Can You Do with this Degree?

As a biology major with an undergraduate teaching degree from McNeese, you’ll be qualified to work in a middle or high school science classroom immediately after you graduate. Or, continue your studies with a graduate education and you can expand your career opportunities to higher education, research, other specialized areas or leadership roles such as school administrators and academic program supervisors.

Graduate Schools or Programs

Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Master of Education in Educational Technology Leadership
Master of Education in School Counseling

Potential Job Titles or Employers

Public and Private Schools
Nature Centers and Parks
Museums, Aquariums or Zoos

Student Activities

Student organizations offer opportunities to network and collaborate with others while supporting the Lake Area community. Get involved through academic clubs such as Kappa Delta Pi, A+PEL and Kappa Kappa Iota. You can also join EdRising, which offers mentorship to future biology teachers.

Boots on the Ground

Participate in service-oriented activities such as Habitat for Humanity, food drives, tutoring and more with the Burton College of Education’s Boots on the Ground community service team.

Technology and Equipment

Learn to adapt with the changing needs of the industry and your classroom to become an effective teacher. McNeese offers a variety of tools for your use, including three onsite computer labs, poster maker software, a 3-D printer, Promethean Panels, iPads, scientific calculators, Swivels, an Apple TV and Qballs.