Completion of this major prepares one to assume the responsibilities of a biology teacher in elementary, middle, or high schools in which science is taught as a separate subject. Continued study may include a Master’s degree in biology or a related discipline or a Master’s degree and doctorate in education.

THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THIS CONCENTRATION ARE:

• A minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0.
• A minimum of B- or better on all education courses

• Passing scores on the Praxis CORE, or 560 verbal, 540 Math on the SAT, or 23 or higher on the ACT, or 155 verbal, 156 quantitative on the GRE.

Passing scores on the Praxis CORE Academic Skills for Educators Tests, as of 9/1/15:

• Math Test#5732         Passing Score 150
• Reading Test#5712    Passing Score 156
• Writing Test#5722     Passing Score 162

For more information on Praxis exams:  https://www.ets.org/praxis/nj/requirements

THE REQUIREMENTS FOR COMPLETION OF THIS DEGREE TRACK ARE:

• Completion of NJCU General Education requirements or equivalent
• Passing scores on appropriate Praxis II Exam
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Successful completion of clinical experience and clinical practice (student teaching)

This includes successful submission of the performance assessment, edTPA, as required by the New Jersey Department of Education.

Note: For the most updated information on this teaching certification program, students are directed to contact the College of Education as changes may have occurred since publication.

1. Required of students who have yet to meet Praxis Core Math requirement.
2. Strongly recommended for students who have yet to meet Praxis Core Writing and Reading requirements.
3. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 5 Biology major courses at NJCU.
4. Credits earned for Biology courses more than 10 years ago may not satisfy department requirements.
5. A minimum grade of “C” is required in each Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics course in order to receive the BA in Biology.
6. Students must achieve an average of “C” (2.0) or better in Principles of Biology I & II before enrolling in higher-level Biology courses.
7. Students must successfully complete each required course within three attempts to remain in the BA in Biology program.
8. Students must successfully complete both Anatomy & Physiology I and II to earn Biology elective credits.
9. Students may apply up to 6 credits of Biology Research or Coop Education toward the BA in Biology requirements.
10. Biology electives should be selected from courses numbered higher than BIOL 230.