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Biology (BS) - Secondary Education

About

There is a high demand for science teachers across the country and especially in North Carolina.  Students in Appalachian State University’s Biology (BS) - Secondary Education degree program are motivated by their desire to make a difference and often graduate with 3 to 5 job offers each.

Graduates of this degree meet the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction requirements to teach biology full-time in grades 9-12 and will be eligible for a North Carolina Secondary General Science teaching license. Students are taught by faculty in the renowned Reich College of Education and the Department of Biology, giving them a chance to learn from experts in both aspects of their curriculum. Students complete a methods course where they learn how to apply their learning experience to their classrooms once they begin student teaching.

After Graduation

Employment: With a high-demand for biology teachers, a large majority of students go on immediately to work in North Carolina public schools.

Graduate school: Because their field does not demand a graduate degree, students do not typically pursue an advanced degree right away.

Career Exploration website

Professional Licensure

This is a program that can lead to licensure or certification in North Carolina. Appalachian State University cannot confirm whether this program will meet the requirements for professional licensure in other states or territories.

If this applies to you, check the Professional Licensure webpage for information on licensure requirements and licensing agencies in other states. Or, you may address questions to State Authorization at App State at stateauthorization@appstate.edu or 828-262-7559.

People

  • Faculty Profile: Dr. Jennifer Geib

    “Many biology students don’t consider teaching as their first option. Getting some education ‘credentials’ can only help you in the job market later, and many people don’t realize they have a calling to teach until they try it.”

    – Dr. Jennifer Geib, ecologist and science teacher educator

    Meet more faculty

  • Alumna Profile: Anna Densmore ’14
    Alumna Profile: Anna Densmore ’14

    Anna Densmore teaches biology at Washington High School in Washington, North Carolina. She chose Appalachian after researching several schools for their teaching and science programs, she said.

Courses

  • Program of Study
    Program of Study
  • Four Year Guide
    Four Year Guide
  • NCCC Transfer Four Year Guide
    NCCC Transfer Four Year Guide

Related Programs

  • Biology (BA)
  • Biology (BS) - Cellular/Molecular Biology
  • Biology (BS) - Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology

Minors

A minor is optional. Students do not typically choose a minor because their career requirements are satisfied through the degree program/

View all minors

Engagement Outside the Classroom

Beta Beta Beta National Biological Honor Society - TriBeta was established to recognize academic achievement and promote research in the biological sciences. Membership is by invitation.

Highlands Biology Club - a student club that works to advance knowledge, inspire the community, as well as open doors of opportunity for members through events involving Biology while having fun.

Appalachian Educators Club - a student club open to all education majors. The club meets every other Wednesday evening. The club promotes teacher education, service, social and professional development.

Kappa Delta Pi - National Honorary Education Fraternity that works to promote a closer bond among students of education and to form a more intimate fellowship with those dedicated to teaching.

Global Learning

Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.

Department of Biology faculty members have led short-term study abroad programs to Zambia, South Africa, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand.

Admission Requirements

Admission to Appalachian’s Teacher Education Program is required.

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Why Appalachian?

  • Appalachian is known for its excellence teacher preparation.
  • Students are taught by biology faculty with diverse research interests and expertise.
  • Undergraduates have the opportunity to participate in graduate-level research projects with department faculty.
  • The Department of Biology offers scholarships.
  • The department offers a Master of Science in Biology.

Location

Boone campus only

Careers

  • Teacher
  • Tutor
  • Environmental Educator

View more career possibilities

Contacts

College of Arts and Sciences

Department of Biology

Dr. Ava Udvadia
Department Chair
udvadiaaj@appstate.edu
828-262-6511

  • Department of Biology

    The Department of Biology is a community of teacher-scholars, with faculty representing the full breadth of biological specializations – from molecular genetics to landscape/ecosystem ecology. The department seeks to produce graduates with sound scientific knowledge, the skills to create new knowledge, and the excitement and appreciation of scientific discovery.

  • College of Arts and Sciences

    Appalachian’s Largest College

    The College of Arts and Sciences at Appalachian State University is home to 17 academic departments, two centers and one residential college spanning the humanities and the social, mathematical and natural sciences. The college is dedicated to providing instruction and research essential to the university's mission and seeks to cultivate the habits of inquiry, learning and service among all its constituents.

    By the Numbers

    • 1/3 of the degrees awarded at Appalachian
    • More than 70% of general education courses are taught in the college
    • 93 majors offered
    • 53 minors offered
    • 6,411 undergraduate majors
    • More than 460 full-time faculty members
    • 41,203 living alumni
    • $8,754,800 awarded to the college in external grants during the 2020–21 academic year
    • $236,914 awarded to students through 6 collegewide scholarships and 98 departmental scholarships for the 2020–21 academic year

    Graduate Programs

    Accelerated Master’s program opportunities are available in pursuing a master's degree in 12 selected areas: Appalachian Studies, Biology, Computer Science, Engineering Physics, English, Geography and Planning, History, Mathematics, Romance Languages (French/Spanish), Political Science, Psychology (Experimental Science) and Public Administration. Other master’s degrees, graduate certificates and specialist degrees are listed on Appalachian’s School of Graduate Studies website.

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Appalachian Cares

It's up to me|us

Appalachian Cares is a place to find resources and support available for our students faculty and staff regarding student health and safety.

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