Biological Science (Composite Teaching)

Biology educators teach how living things work, how they interact with one another, and how they evolve. The field develops constantly, and it is important for biological science teachers to stay current. The department helps students do this by incorporating recent research results into the classroom, providing research opportunities, and inviting them to participate in research seminars and presentations.

Students will receive a BS by completing all required courses in their major. To receive a BA, students must also gain proficiency in one or more foreign languages.

Education Component:

In order to obtain a secondary teaching license for grades 6-12, students must complete the 35-credit Secondary Teacher Education Program (STEP), which includes one semester of student teaching in a public school. This program is administered by USUs School of Teacher Education and Leadership (TEAL) within the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services. Student must apply to the School of TEAL the semester before taking STEP courses. This is usually the fall of their junior year. Students learn subject content through the Biology Department, and spend the last year or two studying education techniques through the STEP program.

Students in the biological science (composite teaching) program do not need to have a minor because the program provides students with knowledge in several subject areas, therefore, expanding their career options.

Bachelor Degree Minimum Requirements

Admission to USU is test optional for Spring 2022, Summer 2022, and Fall 2022. ACT/SAT test scores will still be considered if submitted.

• 2.8-4.0 GPA - Admitted in Good Standing
  • Students with less than a 2.8 high school GPA may still be admitted in good standing based upon the combination of their GPA and ACT/SAT score. See if you qualify.
• 2.79 GPA & below - Considered for Earned Admission path.

Associate Degree Minimum Requirements

Most USU Eastern and USU Blanding Associates Degrees and Certificates are open enrollment and do not require a minimum high school GPA or ACT/SAT score.

Recommended High School Prep Work

• 4 years of English
• 4 years of Math (One class beyond math 3)
• 3.5 years of Social Science
• 3 years of Lab-Based Science (one each: biology, chemistry, and physics)
• 2 years of a world language (same language, taken progressively during grades 9-12)

Students who graduate in biological science (composite teaching) are qualified to teach biological science in middle schools and high schools.

Additionally, students who do not wish to pursue teaching upon graduation have enough biology education to pursue the same types of careers as a student graduating with a bachelors in biology, which include the following:

• Research and development for pharmaceutical companies
• Pharmaceutical sales representative
• Environmental educator
• Research technician

Career Services provides counseling and information on hundreds of job and internship opportunities and even helps students apply and interview.