Biological Science (Composite Teaching) - BS, BA

College of Science

About This Degree

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 USU’s 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.

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At a Glance

College: College of Science

Department: Biology Department

USU Locations:

Program Requirements

Career And Outcomes

Career Opportunities

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 bachelor’s in biology, which include the following:

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

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

Job Outlook

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Advising

We will build on your goals and experiences while working together to design an individualized semester-by-semester plan. Your personalized plan will help you see a path from where you are now on to graduation. Even if you are unsure of the major you would like to pursue, we can help with resources and ideas.

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USU Locations

LOGAN CAMPUS

STATEWIDE CAMPUSES*

*This degree is available at various USU locations.

Admission

Admission Requirements

In addition to Utah State University’s admissions requirements, the biology science (composite teaching) program has additional requirements:

  • Freshmen: New freshmen admitted to USU in good standing qualify for admission to this major. A cumulative 3.0 GPA is required for admission to the Secondary Teacher Education Program (STEP).
  • Transfer students: Transfer students from other institutions or other USU majors need a cumulative 3.0 GPA to be admitted into the major. They also need 30 credits of coursework to be admitted to the STEP.
  • STEP Requirements: In order to be accepted into STEP, students must go through an application process, which includes the following:
    • Complete 60 semester credits with a minimum GPA of 3.0
    • Complete certain core courses (see department for more information)
    • Pass the Teacher Education Writing Exam
    • Provide an unofficial copy of your transcript
    • Pass a criminal background check (this should be done one semester before submitting the application)

International students have additional admissions requirements.

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