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What is a Science Teacher?

Science Teacher is a field of study focused on analyzing, processing, and sharing science-based information.  The field of science education may include the science process, science content, social science, life science, earth science, environmental science, human science, physical science, library science, computer science, political science, fire science, animal science, biomedical, neuroscience, forensic science, biomedical science, genomics, immunology, food science, mathematical science, nutritional science, biological science, and the associated pedagogy of each discipline.

In addition to the comprehending and teaching of science, a science teacher may be required by the institution to perform specific types of research to help advance their specific field of study.  Research and publication in science is commonly associated with post-secondary professors but can stretch into high school at private institutions depending on the structure of their employment contract.

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Science Teacher Degree

Accommodating more than 26,000 students, the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) is a private Ivy League research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1740 as a global leader in providing rigorous academic programs in pursuit of innovative knowledge that can improve communities worldwide.

Offered by Penn’s Science Teacher Institute, the Master of Integrated Science Education major is a program ideal for middle-grade teachers in science and math. The program curriculum consists of basic and advanced courses in physics, math, chemistry, biological science, and environmental science, as well as techniques in teaching science courses to middle school students. The courses are designed for middle school teachers as they are connected with each other which makes it easier to deliver to students. The program typically lasts for 25 to 26 months. To get more details about the program, visit sas.upenn.edu.

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Columbia University in the City of New York or Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university with nearly 2,000 students. The university, established in 1754, is the state’s oldest institution of higher learning and is among the global leaders in research and distinctive academic programs in different scholarly and professional fields.

Under the Science Education program at Columbia University’s Teachers College, students may choose from 5 options with different levels. The Master of Arts in Pre-Service in Science Education is a certification that allows individuals to teach chemistry, biology, earth science, or physics in grades 7 to 12. The program provides opportunities to study the discipline of science, science education theory, and professional education. There is also a Master of Arts in Supervision/Teacher of Science Education where individuals are trained to enhance different aspects of science teaching and learning. Explore the other program options at tc.columbia.edu.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University is one of the leading research universities in the United States known for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. The university has been providing an innovative learning environment since its founding in 1741 and this is where students’ curiosity, creativity, and intellectual joy contribute to academic excellence. 

The Master of Arts in Science Teaching degree at Brown’s Department of Education is a one-year master's program that prepares individuals to earn certification in teaching secondary English, social studies, mathematics, and sciences. The program curriculum consists of courses examining different university and residency-based teacher education contexts that can develop a wider understanding of the scope of education. Some of the courses in the program are Discipline-based Pedagogy, Educating Emerging Bilinguals, Inclusion and Differentiation for Learners with Special Needs, Educational Inequity and Community Assets, Instructional Design, and Assessment of Learning. View the entire program curriculum at education.brown.edu.

Acceptance Rate

7.07

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Originated in 1843, the University of Notre Dame or Notre Dame has been at the forefront in research and scholarship as one of the nation’s leading undergraduate academic institutions. With its 75 undergraduate programs across its 8 colleges and schools, Notre Dame contributed significant breakthroughs in the fields of radiation chemistry, astrophysics, environmental sciences, cancer, robotics, peace studies, and nanoelectronics.

Housed under the Department of Preprofessional Studies at Notre Dame, the Collegiate Sequence programs integrate science with other areas of study such as business, computing, and education. The Science-Education degree is a program that prepares students to apply for certification in teaching science in secondary education. The program curriculum consists of courses covering the four basic areas of science and some education courses to equip individuals with sufficient background in teaching the subjects. Check the required courses in the program at science.nd.edu.

Acceptance Rate

15.83

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Founded in 1853, Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) is a private research university with several campuses across St. Louis, Missouri. For the past years, the university has been developing productive members and leaders of society across 10 schools and divisions in various areas of study as a reflection of its commitment to teaching, research, patient care, and service.

Jointly offered by WUSTL Institute for School Partnership, College of Arts & Sciences, and University College, the Advanced Certificate in Science Education is a 15-hour graduate certificate program that focuses on science education for students from grades K-8. Students who wish to advance their studies may do so by applying to the Master of Arts in Education offered through the Graduate School. The university also offers a certificate in STEM + C which gives individuals comprehensive background in science, technology, engineering, math, and computational thinking to be able to teach the subjects. Check the specific program requirements at ucollege.wustl.edu.

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Among the top research universities in the United States, Rice University is a private research university located in the heart of Houston, Texas. Founded as the William Marsh Rice University in 1891, the university is consistently listed for having the best quality of life among private institutions of higher learning because of its strong tradition of keeping close-knit, diverse communities.

The Master of Science Teaching degree at Rice Department of Physics and Astronomy is a non-thesis, graduate degree mainly designed for in-service middle school integrated physics and chemistry, physics, or astronomy teachers and other education professionals. The program aims to equip teachers with technical content and practical skills required to in-service and pre-service K-12 educators to be able to teach topics included in the State of Texas Science Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards. The program also offers nine specializations: Astronomy, Computer Science, Earth Science, Engineering, Informal Science, Integrated Physics and Chemistry, Mathematics, Middle School Science, and Physics. Access the complete program curriculum at ga.rice.edu.

Acceptance Rate

8.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Tufts University is a moderately-sized private research university located on the border of Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts. Considered one of the leaders in the higher education system in the United States, it is known for providing nearly 12,000 students with personal experience across campuses in Boston and Grafton, Massachusetts, and in Talloires, France.

The School of Arts and Sciences at Tufts University offers two degree options under its STEM Education program. The 3-year Master of Science in STEM Education admits individuals with backgrounds in STEM and relevant areas such as mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, engineering, technology, psychology, cognitive science, and child development. The program prepares educators to enhance and implement research techniques, new curriculum materials, and engaging educational activities in formal and informal education settings. Students may then continue their advanced studies by applying to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in STEM Education program. Read more about the program at as.tufts.edu.

Acceptance Rate

14.95

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Considered America’s first private research university, Johns Hopkins University (JHU) has been leading several world-class academic divisions that work together to fulfill the university’s mission of bringing knowledge to the world since its founding in 1876. The university, located in Baltimore Maryland, revolutionized higher education in the nation and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

The online Graduate Certificate in STEM Instructional Leader (Pre-K–6) at JHU School of Education is a part-time, 18-hour program designed for current teachers to develop their motivational learning experiences and learn new techniques in teaching STEM. The program curriculum includes courses that cover problem- and project-based learning, STEM explorations, culturally relevant pedagogy, technology-enhanced instruction, inquiry-oriented strategies, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches, and problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Students may combine the certificate with other areas if they wish to pursue a master’s degree as the university also offers a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Educational Studies. For additional information about the program, go to education.jhu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

With the aim to educate Boston’s predominantly Irish, Catholic immigrant community, Boston College (BC) is the first institution of higher learning to operate in the city of Boston in 1863 through the Society of Jesus. Currently located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Boston College is a global leader in liberal arts education, scientific inquiry, and student formation.

BC’s School of Education and Human Development offers three master’s degrees in its Secondary Education program: Master of Education (M.Ed.), Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T), and Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T).  The M.Ed. program consists of 37 credits while the M.A.T. and M.S.T. programs each have 46 credits. The programs allow educators to earn a license in teaching grades 8 to 12 students in one of the following disciplines: Chemistry, Biology, English, Mathematics, Physics, Earth and Space Science, Foreign Language (Spanish or French), and History through courses involving teaching methods, foundation courses in formal education, specific to the content area, and school-based practicum. To know more about the program requirements, go to bc.edu.

Acceptance Rate

27.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Boston University (BU) is a private research university founded in 1839 by the United Methodist Church. With its two primary campuses in Boston, Massachusetts, the university accommodates over 34,000 students enrolled in approximately 300 programs of study in the areas of law, arts and sciences, engineering, fine arts, medical sciences, social work, and public health.

Offered by BU’s Wheelock College of Education and Human Development, the top ranked Science Education bachelor’s degree can be found under its Science Education program is an undergraduate program that prepares students in designing, teaching, and supervising science academic programs at middle and secondary school levels. The program has four specializations: General Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The curriculum includes courses on different learning theories, pedagogies, and educational contexts that create opportunities for students to engage in science and become scientifically literate individuals. Other degree options under the Science Education program include Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Education, Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study, Doctor of Education, and Graduate Certificates in different subjects. Explore the program options at bu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

New York University (NYU) is one of the country's leading institutions of higher education since 1831. It provides support and resources needed by the students to enhance critical thinking and to create a dynamic learning environment. The university, located in New York City, New York, houses more than 50,000 students from all 50 states and 133 countries across its 19 schools and colleges.

The 128-credit Bachelor of Science in Science Teaching at NYU is a full-time or part-time undergraduate program that caters to middle and high school science teachers in the areas of chemistry, biology, earth science, and physics. Aside from courses in humanities and social sciences as well as major-specific ones, the curriculum covers teaching methods for science and curriculum development, methods for adapting curriculum for multicultural urban schools, application of technology in teaching and learning of science, and instructional techniques for engaging more women and minorities in the field. Students are also required to complete 100 hours of fieldwork in public or independent schools in New York City. Upon completion of program requirements, graduates receive initial teaching certification. NYU also offers a Master of Arts in Teaching, Science Education where graduates can enroll after the undergraduate program. Check more details about the program at steinhardt.nyu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

16.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Rochester or simply Rochester is a private research university in Rochester, New York granting undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as doctoral and professional degrees. Established in 1850, Rochester houses a diverse community of more than 12,000 students, 3,000 faculty, and 30,000 staff.

Offered at Rochester’s Warner School of Education, the degree in science education caters to all educators of different levels and experiences. The first set of programs is for pre-service teachers with no prior teaching certification which offers two degree options: Master of Science and Master of Arts in Teaching. Both programs consist of required entry-level courses, core courses, specialization courses, and teaching and learning electives where students can choose from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science. The second and third sets of programs are designed for certified science teachers who seek New York State professional certification and certified teachers in other disciplines who wish to have a science certification, respectively. The program also has additional specialization certifications in other subjects, grade level, online learning, urban teaching and leadership, and TESOL. Visit warner.rochester.edu to check the specifics of each program mentioned.

Acceptance Rate

29.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

As one of America’s top universities, the University of Florida (UF) is a public land-grant research university located in Gainesville, Florida. It handles over 200 research, service, and education centers, as well as institutes available for student use to widen their academic and research interests as part of the university’s vision of a better world through research.

UF School of Education offers several degree options under its Science Education program: minor, graduate certificates, Master of Arts in Education, Education Specialist, and Doctor of Philosophy. For undergraduates, the 2-year minor degree in Science Education allows them to receive an initial teaching certificate as Science Teacher for grades 6 to 12 students. For those who have a bachelor’s degree, the 1-year graduate certificates and Master of Arts in Education in Science Education are the ideal options as the programs allow them to have enhanced experiences in inquiry-based science teaching. The master’s degree also enables educators to become Science Teacher Leaders and Science Education Professionals. Individuals who obtain a master’s degree may then progress to taking the Education Specialist or Doctor of Philosophy program options. For more details about the program options, go to education.ufl.edu.

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Baptist Bible College (BBC) is a private Christian college in Springfield, Missouri that specializes in providing on-campus and online professional studies and seminary degree programs. Founded in 1950, BBC has produced more than 12,000 Christian professionals and ministers who went through rigorous programs and research to be able to create an impact on others and society.

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at BBC is a 4-year undergraduate program that prepares individuals for teaching grades 1 to 6 students. The program includes basic biblical understanding, children’s academic, social, and cognitive skills, basics of active communication, unique strategies and techniques, and practical experience in teaching. Graduates of the program then receive a Missouri certification to teach students from grades 1 to 6. See more about the program curriculum at gobbc.edu.

Acceptance Rate

40.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The University of Maryland (UMD) - College Park is the state’s flagship university established in 1856. It is among the top public universities in the country today accommodating more than 41,000 students. UMD is also a global leader in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation by providing education and training in the fields of agriculture, public health, social sciences, business, and many more.

The Division of Science, Technology, and Mathematics Education at UMD College Park offers several degree options for teaching science and mathematics. The Bachelor of Science in Secondary Science Education is under the Terrapin Teachers program that aims to produce highly qualified educators in STEM subjects. The division also offers a Bachelor of Science in Middle School Education with a specialization in Mathematics and Science which includes courses in mathematical problem solving, algebra and geometry, statistics and probability, chemistry, physics, biology, and atmospheric and geological sciences. The graduate programs in the same field are Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Teaching and Learning, Policy, and Leadership with a specialization in Mathematics and Science. View the specific program details at education.umd.edu.

Acceptance Rate

44.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

One of the world-class institutions of higher learning in the country, Binghamton University or SUNY at Binghamton, located at Binghamton, New York, offers a broad, interdisciplinary education and research collaborations to students from all over the world. The university, founded in 1946 as Triple Cities College, values curiosity and exploration in art, culture, science, and engineering.

The initial and advanced teaching certifications within the Department of Teaching, Learning and Educational Leadership at Binghamton provides the educational and employment needs of educators in the fields of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Mathematics, Physics, Social Studies, English, French, and Spanish. The Master of Arts in Teaching degree is for individuals seeking initial teaching certifications for grades 7 to 12 students. On the other hand, the Master of Science in Education degree is for educators who wish to earn advanced teaching certifications. Both programs require students to finish an internship in different classroom settings to gain new techniques and strategies for learning and teaching. Check the specific degrees offered for science education at binghamton.edu.

Acceptance Rate

40.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Located in the city of Athens in Georgia, the University of Georgia (UGA) is among the oldest public land-grant research universities in the United States. The university was chartered in 1785 by the state of Georgia and currently provides quality education, hands-on learning, and exceptional research to its students together with extensive outreach to the community.

Following national standards from the National Science Teachers Association and the Next Generation Science Standards, the Science Education degree at UGA Department of Mathematics and Science Education is a comprehensive program that emphasizes the latest curriculum, teaching techniques, extensive research, and hands-on experience in teaching science. There are several degree options with specializations in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth and space science: Bachelor of Science in Education, Master of Education, Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Arts, Educational Specialist, Doctor of Philosophy, and Doctor of Education. There are also dual and combined degree programs available in the department. See the specific requirements and curriculum of each program at coe.uga.edu.

Acceptance Rate

45.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Syracuse University is a private research university situated in Syracuse, New York that offers over 200 customizable majors, 100 minors, and numerous online degrees and certificates across 13 schools and colleges. Since its founding in 1870, the university has been a leader in providing professional programs and extensive research and innovation to create a positive impact on society. 

Jointly offered by the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Education, the Science Education program at Syracuse is a dual enrollment program that provides specializations in biology, chemistry, earth science, and physics. The BS and BA in Science Education provides a deep understanding of scientific theory and teaching practice, content instruction, as well as culturally relevant pedagogy, integration of technology in teaching, and standards-based assessments. The program also offers a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree options for those seeking advanced studies and teaching certifications. Read more about the programs at soe.syr.edu.

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Commonly referred to as NC State, North Carolina State University is a public research-extensive land-grant university with over 36,000 students on its campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. The university, founded in 1887, is known for its strength in science and technology education and its strong commitment to excellent teaching, extensive research, and robust engagement with the public.

NC State’s College of Education, specifically the Department of STEM Education, offers numerous degree options for science education. With concentrations in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Middle Grades Sciences, the Bachelo of Science in Science Education with Middle School or Secondary teaching emphasis is a program that offers coursework in general pedagogical knowledge, content-area knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge, and context knowledge to equip future educators with a strong foundation in the field of science education. The department also offers a Master of Education in STEM Education, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Learning and Teaching in STEM, both with concentrations in Science Education. Access the program details at ced.ncsu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

45.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Considered as a national leader among public research universities, the University of Connecticut (UConn) is committed to providing distinctive higher education for its over 32,000 students on its campus in Storrs, Connecticut. UConn, founded in 1881, is built to inspire the global community through its talented students and expert faculty to fuel change for the better good.

The Neag School of Education at UConn provides a five-year Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s Teacher Education Program that consists of two years of general education, two years of subject area studies and professional education, and a year of graduate-level professional education. The Science Education program offers specializations in chemistry, biology, earth science, general science, and physics. Upon program completion, graduates receive the Bachelor of Science in Education and Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction and are qualified for certification as a teacher to grades 7 to 12 students in Connecticut. Inquire about the program at teachered.education.uconn.edu.

Acceptance Rate

49.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Started out as a progressive and personal college for men and women in 1973, Texas Christian University (TCU) is a private university in Fort Worth, Texas continuing its mission of providing holistic education to students from all over the world. The university aims to educate individuals into critical thinking and ethical behaviors as future leaders of society.

The Bachelor of Science in Education - Middle School Education at TCU College of Education offers specializations in Combined Science and Science for future educators who want to teach in middle school. Some of the courses on both specializations include Natural History, Astronomy: Earth & Planets, Environmental Issues, Weather and Climate, Intro to Biology, General Physics, and General Chemistry. The college also offers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with emphasis on research and teaching and learning, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies with a concentration in Science Education. Learn more about the programs at coe.tcu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

47.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of Washington (UW), founded in 1861, is one of the oldest public research universities in Seattle, Washington. UW continues to educate more than 54,000 students annually in its mission to pursue progress by turning ideas into impact and transforming lives all over the world.

The College of Education at UW offers three degree options under its Science Education program: Master of Education, Doctor of Education, and Doctor of Philosophy. The Master of Science Education degree is a program that provides intermediate-level graduate coursework and training to develop educators’ professional knowledge in teaching science. Students are required to submit or undergo at least one of the following to complete the program: a comprehensive written exam, a formal master’s thesis with an oral defense, a portfolio project with an oral presentation. For further information about the programs, go to education.uw.edu.

Acceptance Rate

51.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Accommodating more than 26,000 students, Clemson University is a public land-grant research university in Clemson, South Carolina. It was established in 1889 making it the state’s second-largest university in terms of student population. Today, Clemson aims to provide high-quality education and training individuals within and outside of South Carolina.

With options of Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Science Teaching, students in the programs are equipped with the technical knowledge and practical skills in biological sciences, chemistry, and earth sciences to teach grades 9 to 12 students. Both programs are composed of early and diversified field-based experiences that will aid students in sharpening their skills in teaching science. Students may also choose to take a double major in science teaching and in one of the specializations to prepare educators to teach science to secondary students and pursue graduate studies. Visit clemson.edu to check the specific requirements of the program.

Acceptance Rate

51.26

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Established in 1957 to train secondary school teachers in the field of mathematics and science, Stony Brook University (SBU) is a public research university in Stony Brook, New York, and is one of the flagship universities of the State University of New York system. SBU is now recognized as one of the important centers of learning and scholarship in the nation.

The Science Education degree at SBU School of Professional Development is a program that equips future educators with general science principles, content specialty, human development and pedagogical principles, and instructional strategies in science teaching and learning. Undergraduates who wish to incorporate a secondary science teacher certification in their degrees in biology, chemistry, earth science, biochemistry, and physics must be admitted to the Science Education program. There is also a dual degree of Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Teaching that can be completed within five years. There is also a Master of Arts in Teaching and Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education ideal for working professionals who seek to advance their careers in teaching. Additional information about the programs can be found at stonybrook.edu.

Acceptance Rate

44.15

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

As one of the nationally ranked research institutions of higher learning in the United States, Baylor University is a private Baptist research university located in Waco, Texas. Established in 1845, Baylor is the oldest continually operating university in the state. Today, it houses a vibrant and strong community of nearly 16,000 students engaged in interdisciplinary research and educational excellence.

The Department of Curriculum and Instruction at Baylor’s School of Education offers two degree options in teaching: Bachelor of Science in (BSEd) in Middle Grades Education and BSEd in Secondary Education. Each program provides an introduction to the major subjects such as English, Language Arts, and Reading (ELAR), Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences. Graduates of the program then prepare to obtain teaching certification for the specific subject they want to teach. The university also offers a Bachelor of Science with majors in Biology, Health Science Studies, History, Mathematics, and Physics where students can enroll in an education minor or concentration that lets them earn a teaching certification and a bachelor’s degree in a span of 4 years. To know more about the program options, visit baylor.edu.

Acceptance Rate

45.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Education Degrees for Science Teachers

Earning a degree to teach science in primary or secondary education can take two common paths: undergraduate degrees or graduate degrees.  Which track you choose is a personal choice that will depend on your goals, teaching aspirations, degrees offered by the college, and resources.

To help prospective teachers better understand these degree options, we have created a summary of a bachelor degree and master degree below.  Learning more about graduate and undergraduate degrees have never been easier as you can simply request information by degree or by school below to collect admissions information quickly with a simple click.

Science Teacher Bachelor Degrees

Bachelor degrees for science teachers is typically designed to be a four-year program for full-time students.  A part-time student can anticipate a longer timeframe as a function of the school’s curricular requirements, your course load, and endorsements you select.

Online teaching degrees at the bachelor's level for science teachers can be found from accredited colleges in addition to on-campus based programs.  A bachelor's degree in teaching be conferred in several ways.  The most common three science teacher bachelor's degree is:

  • Bachelor of Science (BS)
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  • Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd)

Colleges and universities will determine how a specific science teaching degree will be conferred.  Factors include the school's accreditation, resources, teaching staff, and based on the curricular design of the teaching program.

Courses you may register for on your path to becoming a science teacher will generally vary by college.  However, a common set of classes you may take on your journey will likely include a combination of the following classes:

Science Teacher Master's Degree

Starting a graduate degree in teaching will require students to complete all lower level requirements and meet all other requirements as established by the college or university.  Academic requirements may include coursework, extracurricular activities, grades, and practical teaching experience.

Master degrees will take teachers studying full-time between 1-3 years to complete as a function of the school’s degree design and your overall course load.  A graduate degree in teaching can be conferred as either a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Arts (MA).

Your core classes you will take in this degree level will depend on your teaching emphasis.  Meaning, if you determine a K-8 program is better for you than teaching in high school, the classes in your degree program will reflect that choice.  These variations in courses will exist by school, state of residence, and degree emphasis.  Core classes for a science teacher in a graduate degree program may include the following:

  • Microbes
  • Earth Systems Science
  • Mathematics
  • Educational Research
  • Oceanography
  • Media and Technology in the Classroom
  • Childhood & Adolescent Development
  • Models of Instruction
  • Literacy Development
  • Urban Learning Environment
  • Planetary Geoscience
  • Organism Function
  • Curriculum Development & Design
  • Child Psychology in Education
  • Methods for Teaching Social Studies
  • Geology
  • Assessment, Curriculum, and Instruction
  • Methods for Teaching Science
  • Methods for Teaching Mathematics
  • Teaching Practicum
  • Clinical Teaching

How to Become a Science Teacher

Science teachers can convey a range of important concepts to students.  Whether teaching science in a primary or secondary school, a science teacher can help students understand critical thinking skills.  Examples of valuable academic and life skills taught by science teachers include:

  • Value of Critical Analysis
  • Independence
  • Critical Thinking
  • Classification & Systemization
  • Various Scientific Principles

You may elect to teach several subjects in various blocks or a single class during a school year depending on the needs of the school.  The essential steps to become a science teacher listed below will help you visualize the process to achieve your teaching goals in a systematic fashion. These steps include the following three phases of your development:

Step 1: Earning a Degree

Step one in your journey to become a science teacher is to earn a formal degree.  The degree you select will be a function of the education needed to teach at the level you desire.  In most high schools, holding a bachelor's degree in teaching is an acceptable entry-point into a school district.  However, teaching science at the collegiate level will require students to earn a master's degree or doctorate degree.

In terms of qualification, you will have several paths to validate academic requirements in your state and district of choice.  You can either visit your state's department of education, specific school district site, or teacher union portal.

You may be able to qualify to teach in your state by earning a degree teaching in various subjects like math, social science, biology, chemistry, earth science, agriculture, or physics.  It is also worth noting that you may be able to earn an approved teaching certification in your state of residence as prescribed by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) with a degree in an unrelated field of study.

Step 2:  Meeting Your State & District Requirements

To teach in some states or school districts, you will need to hold specific teaching credentials.  Professional credentials may include a specific combination of endorsements, degrees, teaching certifications, endorsements, and/or licensure to teach in a public institution.

On the other hand, many private schools do not require licensure; however, it may be highly encouraged by the school administration to obtain a valid license to teach science. Your teaching certification and licensing will include an array of paperwork that starts with a formal application followed by a background check and fingerprinting.  The length of time it takes your state agencies to process your application will vary as will any additional paperwork needed.

Step 3:  Gaining Work Experience

Gaining relevant, valuable work experience is the last formal step in the process to become a science teacher.  Your state of residence may require you to obtain a minimum number of hours of supervised teaching in a classroom under the supervision of a licensed teacher.

Meanwhile, there are several science teacher degree programs that include requisite student-teaching hours within the teaching degree program.  Regardless of the hours required and details required by your state, you will need to invest time teaching students under the tutelage of a qualified mentor teacher.

Schools Other Students Requested Information From:

Employment & Science Teaching Specializations

After earning a teaching degree in science, graduates will have career options to consider. Science teachers can elect to continue in a teaching track or jump into support roles or research positions. Teaching in a private or public school can be exhilarating and rewarding. Education majors can teach at an elementary school, middle school, high school, or post-secondary institution.

Alternatively, a student earning a teaching degree in science can leverage that knowledge into other career paths. Examples of possible careers to consider after earning a teaching degree in science include: research specialist, ecologist, curriculum designer, botanist, genomics, virologist, immunologist, biologist, toxicologist, or nutritional scientist. Additional certification and/or training may be necessary for students to obtain in adjacent career tracks.

Science Teacher Job Growth

Teaching positions are estimated to grow at or above average according to studies performed by the BLS. To illustrate, the job growth for high school teachers in set to grow at a 8% clip and college professors 15% in the next decade. The national average composite growth rate for all jobs is six percent making a teaching profession an attractive industry to start a career.

How Much Do Science Teachers Make?

If you are wondering how much high school science teachers make, it will ultimately depend. Teacher unions and school districts negotiate contracts for public school teachers. However, a broad-based study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics illustrates an average that can be used as a proxy. The mean annual income for a high school science teacher is $62,860. For illustration purposes, the top 10% of science teachers make $95,380 on average while the bottom ten percent average thirty-nine thousand dollars a year.

Biological science teachers at the college level tend to average more income per year than a high school science teacher. Median annual income for a college science teacher is $78,240 with the top 10% averaging $162,470 a year. Meanwhile, the bottom ten percent of college biological science teachers will average just over forty-three thousand dollars per year.

Additional Resources for Science Teachers

Teachers seeking information and resources provided by outside organizations can connect with either the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) or the Associate for Science Teacher Education (ASTE) to learn more. Both associations focus on the profession of teaching science, professional growth, and helping members better connect with students. A local chapter may be a viable alternative to consider to help increase your sphere of influence and meet other teachers in your area.

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