Biological sciences, in the broadest sense, is the study of life. As such, it is a subject of great diversity and requires a background in many academic disciplines. A biologist must have a basic understanding of and be able to synthesize knowledge from physics, chemistry, geology, math and the social sciences as they relate to living systems. The biological sciences courses needed for a major are selected from a variety of life science departments at North Dakota State University.

Students who want to obtain broad training and knowledge in the life sciences can major in biological sciences or biological sciences education. These degrees differ primarily in that the latter includes the education sequence needed for teacher certification in both North Dakota and Minnesota. (It is advised that students who intend to teach in Minnesota meet with the science education advisor early to discuss additional requirements for teacher certification in that state.)

Program Curriculum

For more information contact Dr. James Nyachwaya

Professional Education Courses

Teacher candidates may enroll in the 300-level professional education courses before being formally admitted to the School of Education (SOE). Prior to enrolling in the 400-level courses, teacher candidates must complete the application for admission to the SOE; attain a minimum of a 2.75 grade point average overall in their course work and pass the Core Academic Skills for Educators exam or meet minimum scores on the ACT+.  

Student Teaching

Student teaching (clinical practice) is the culmination of the teaching program. During the clinical practice, teacher candidates apply the knowledge and skills acquired in their college courses to real-world classrooms under the supervision of experienced science teachers in middle or high schools. Faculty members from NDSU conduct regular on-site visits to support, encourage, and evaluate teacher candidates so that they gain the confidence and ability to join the teaching profession after graduation.

Student Advisement

Students will be assigned individual advisors who will work closely with them in program planning. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor(s) at least once a semester.

Licensure

Upon completing this program, teacher candidates are eligible for certification to teach science in most states. Our program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the North Dakota Education and Standards and Practices Board (ESPB).

For information regarding state authorizations please review: https://www.ndsu.edu/onestop/registration/authorization

Career Opportunities

Science teachers are in high demand across the country, so our graduates usually obtain full-time employment in school districts shortly after graduation.