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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Biological Science Teacher Postsecondarys.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Biological Science Teacher Postsecondarys.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 12%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Evaluate and grade students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, and papers.
Plan, evaluate, and revise curricula, course content, and course materials and methods of instruction.
Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as molecular biology, marine biology, and botany.
If you're interested in sharing your passion for biology with others and shaping the minds of future scientists, becoming a postsecondary biological science teacher might be the right career path for you. This role involves educating college or university students in biology and related fields, conducting research, and contributing to the academic community. Here's what you need to know to get started on this rewarding career.
Before you commit to this career path, it's important to understand what the role entails. As a postsecondary biological science teacher, you'll be:
To become a biological science teacher at the postsecondary level, you typically need to meet certain educational criteria:
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Start with a bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related field. This foundational step will give you the necessary knowledge in general biology, as well as specialized areas such as genetics, ecology, or biochemistry.
Pursue Graduate Studies: Most postsecondary institutions require their faculty members to have a master's degree at a minimum. However, a Ph.D. is often preferred, especially for tenure-track positions. Graduate studies will involve advanced coursework and significant research experience in your area of interest.
While working towards your graduate degree, it's beneficial to gain teaching experience:
Teaching Assistantships: Many graduate programs offer teaching assistant positions that allow you to assist professors with their courses and gain valuable experience leading labs or discussion sections.
Adjunct Teaching: You may also have opportunities to teach as an adjunct professor at community colleges or smaller universities. This experience can be particularly helpful in securing a full-time position later on.
Research is a key component of a postsecondary biological science teacher's career:
Laboratory Work: Engage in lab work during your graduate studies to develop your research skills. Choose a lab that aligns with your interests and offers opportunities for independent projects.
Publish Your Findings: Aim to publish your research in peer-reviewed scientific journals. This will not only contribute to your field but also bolster your resume when applying for teaching positions.
Building professional relationships is crucial:
Attend Conferences: Participate in scientific conferences to present your research and network with other professionals in your field.
Join Professional Organizations: Consider joining organizations such as the American Association for the Advancement of Science or the National Association of Biology Teachers. These can offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development.
As you near the completion of your graduate program, start preparing for the job market:
Curriculum Vitae (CV): Create a detailed CV highlighting your educational background, teaching experience, publications, presentations, and any awards or honors you've received.
Application Materials: Prepare other application materials such as a teaching philosophy statement and a cover letter tailored to each institution you apply to.
Mock Interviews: Practice interviewing skills with colleagues or mentors who can provide feedback.
Once you secure a position as a biological science teacher postsecondary, remember that learning never stops:
Professional Development: Take advantage of professional development opportunities to stay current with new teaching methodologies and advancements in biology.
Educational Technology: Embrace educational technologies that can enhance your teaching and engage students more effectively.
By following these steps and staying dedicated to both teaching and research, you can successfully become a biological science teacher at the postsecondary level. Keep in mind that this career requires ongoing commitment to education, research, and professional growth.
To become a postsecondary biological science teacher, you typically need:
As a biological science teacher at the postsecondary level, these skills are crucial:
Certifications are not typically required for postsecondary teachers, but licensure may be necessary if teaching in a professional program that requires it, such as nursing or medicine.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow:
The work environment for this career usually involves:
Job duties often include:
Yes, you can specialize in areas such as:
Specialization often requires additional training or research experience in the chosen niche.
Continuing education is important to:
Joining professional organizations can be beneficial:
Career advancement may involve:
Remember that career paths can vary widely based on individual choices, institutional needs, and the evolving landscape of higher education.