Biology MajorThere is strong demand for biology teachers at the middle- and high-school levels. Students interested in secondary education can complete the general Biology major and licensure requirements through the Education Department, or can double major in Biology and Education. Students pursuing this option can also enroll in a 4+1 program to complete the B.S. in Biology and Masters of Education at MCLA in five years.
The general Biology major includes courses from a variety of fields, including biology, chemistry and physics. The required courses are as follows:
BIOL 101 Seminar for Entering Majors (1 cr)In addition to the courses required for the general Biology major, students interested in teaching licensure must take the following courses:
A sample 4-year plan showing a possible sequence of courses in this concentration.
Students have the opportunity to work with local schools while completing the Biology degree, doing service projects or internships, and can be paid to participate in the Teaching to Learn program. Strong students may also be invited to serve as teaching assistants in the department, conducting tutorials or assisting with undergraduate biology labs.
Students who wish to teach in the state of Massachusetts must complete the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL). Information about and preparation classes for the MTEL are provided by the Education Department.
Students interested in secondary education will have advisors in both the Biology Department and the Education Department.
Biology graduates can work following graduation, gain experience through programs such as Teach for America, or pursue a Masters of Education. Two biology graduates are currently teaching at the secondary level while enrolled in Masters of Education programs.
