Biology - Secondary Teaching Emphasis

Department of Biology, College of Science and Engineering

Biology is the study of living organisms. As scientists, biologists have three goals: (1) understanding the structure and function of organisms, (2) generating and disseminating reliable data pertaining to biological systems, and (3) developing a deep understanding of the natural world that can inform solutions for the serious environmental, medical, and social concerns facing humanity.

Our goal as educators is to maintain intensive academic programs designed to stimulate curiosity, creativity and life-long critical thinking in students who pursue a liberal arts education in Biology. All of the B.S. programs in Biology are designed for students who plan to pursue post-graduate study or professional careers in biology or teaching. We have designed these programs to enable students to develop an integrated conceptual foundation in biology, as well as critical thinking skills, quantitative problem-solving abilities, leadership and team-building skills, and scientific research skills.

Each B.S. program features a core curriculum at the 200-level and 300-level, plus one 400-level course in evolution. The primary differences between the emphases lie in the choices of additional upper-division lab and lecture courses that a student takes to 1) gain a depth of knowledge in a focal area, 2) have opportunities to integrate and apply that knowledge in various settings including the lab, the field, and discussions with others, and 3) develop skills and abilities that are tailored to particular interests and career paths.

The B.S. Biology – Secondary Teaching Emphasis will allow a student to become a secondary school teacher while giving them the flexibility to pursue any other career in biology or continue as a post-baccalaureate student. A diploma granted under this major will indicate “Bachelor of Science”; official transcripts will indicate Biology – Secondary Teaching Emphasis.

To receive a recommendation for state of Washington certification, students must complete a professional preparation program in secondary education. See the Secondary Education section of this catalog for program admission, completion and teacher certification requirements for Woodring College of Education.

A Biology endorsement with a teaching certification will require taking two science methods courses. SCED 481 can be taken prior to admission to Woodring College of Education, but SCED 491 must be taken after admission. Students who elect to complete certification as an undergraduate while completing a Biology Bachelor of Science degree can count these two courses as electives for the BS. To receive a Science endorsement, take GEOL 211 and 212, and ASTR 103 or 113 in addition to the courses listed for the Biology endorsement.