- PHST 1300
- PHST 2020
- PEDU 1500
- PEDU 2250
- PEDU 2350
- PEDU 2500
- PEDU 4500
- PSYC 2030
Program Highlights
BECOME A BIOLOGY TEACHER
Be prepared to earn your New York State teaching certification for grades 7-12.
EXTEND YOUR CAREER
Optionally earn your certification for grades 5-6 as well as teaching students with disabilities.
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
Gain confidence through practical lessons in both the lab and in the classroom.
Want more information about this major?
Download a program guide with detailed information on the department, major and outcomes!
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Good biology without good philosophy will be a calamity.
How Much Will I Pay?
Total Program
Sticker Price for 2026-2027:
$55,781
Last year
100%
of full-time freshmen students who applied
for a scholarship received one
$23,345
average grants & scholarships package
for incoming freshman students last year
Roberts' Strategic Pillars
Online, Hybrid, and In-Person Programs In Rochester, NY
ANCHORED IN CHRISTIAN FAITH
You’ll be spiritually prepared for engagement in a diverse world.
CUSTOMIZED EDUCATIONAL PATHWAYS
Whatever your interests and circumstances, you’ll be equipped for your one-of-a-kind vocation.
READY TO
LEAD
You’ll be ready to lead, making meaningful contributions in your profession.
FLOURISHING PEOPLE & COMMUNITIES
Empowered to act in local and practical ways, you’ll make a difference in the communities where you live and work.
What Will I Learn?
You’ll learn how to be your students’ favorite biology teacher. Master the study of biology then learn how to share your love with your classroom.
You’ll graduate prepared to apply for New York State teaching certification in Biology for grades 7-12.
You may choose to become certified in teaching:
- Biology for grades 5-6
- Dual certification in Adolescence Education Biology 7-12 and Students with Disabilities 7-12 Generalists
You’ll be ready to move on to graduate studies in education, biology, or other related disciplines. You’ll be mentored by an advisor in the Biology department as well as the Teacher Education department.
You will study:
- General biology
- Microbiology
- Anatomy & physiology
- Lesson planning
- Specialized science teaching methods
- Language and literacy
Minor Options
Minor Requirements
Students wishing to graduate with a minor must complete at least 18 semester hours in a selected
discipline. Specific minor requirements are listed within the departmental sections of this catalog. In
order to earn a minor when some of the coursework is also required by their major, students must take
at least nine hours unique to the minor. In order for a transfer student to earn a minor offered by Roberts, the student must earn at least nine hours at Roberts.
Career Outlook
Here are just a few successes our graduates have achieved:
Student Teaching Placements
- Webster Central School District (CSD)
- Greece CSD
- Rochester CSD
- Pittsford CSD
- Churchville-Chili CSD
- Brockport CSD
- Hilton CSD
- Byron-Bergen CSD
- Spencerport CSD
- Kendall CSD
- Penfield CSD
- Rush-Henrietta CSD
- Private schools and agencies such as Charles Finney, Mary Cariola Children’s Center, Hillside Children’s Center, Cornerstone Christian Academy, McQuaid, and more!
Roberts’ Graduate Teacher Education Professional Programs
Teacher Education Summer Camp
Spend a week learning about teaching children. You'll walk the path of a teacher, planning fun lessons and activities, and then implementing those activities with children.
Scholarships may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Simply put, biology is the study of life. It involves studying living organisms and all of their processes at a microscopic and macroscopic level.
What qualifications do you need to be a biology teacher?
Biology teachers need at least a bachelor’s degree. The type of degree they get is flexible – whether it be in elementary or adolescent education, biology, or a mix of the disciplines, like the Adolescence Education in Biology degree one can get at Roberts.
Many teachers do go on to obtain a master’s or even doctorate, as well. Some states such as New York, Maryland, and Connecticut require teachers to obtain their master’s degree in teaching or education in a certain amount of time to maintain their teacher’s license. Along with that, many districts pay teachers who obtain their master’s degrees more than those who don’t.
How much do biology teachers make?
According to the US Bureau of Labor, the median annual wage for middle and high school teachers in 2023 was about $65,220.
Naturally, the numbers will differ by area, type of school, and position.
Can I meet with a professor when I visit Roberts?
Yes! If you come to campus for an individual visit, you can meet individually with a professor to get an overview of the major and your individual questions answered. Our Discovery Day events typically include a Faculty & Services Expo, where you can meet your future professors.
Does Roberts Wesleyan University offer financial aid?
Yes! At Roberts, we’re dedicated to supporting you. Our Office of Student Financial Services is here to help you make the most of every financial aid opportunity available.
We provide financial assistance to 100% of our undergraduate students, so you can focus on following your calling with confidence.
Department of Biological & Chemical Sciences Faculty
Department of Teacher Education Faculty
Staff
