Science Education Degree

Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.)

Create opportunities for middle and high school students to engage with science and expand their knowledge and critical reasoning skills.

High school and middle school students need science teachers who are passionate about science and enthusiastic about teaching. By earning a bachelor’s degree in science education, you'll graduate ready to teach science to middle and secondary school students.

Program type:: Major
Format:: On Campus
Est. time to complete:: 4 years
Credit hours:: 120

Why earn a science education degree?

Application Deadlines

Fall:: Aug. 15
Spring:: Dec. 15
Summer:: May 1

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

The University of North Dakota offers the most comprehensive teacher education program in the state. Our program graduates teachers who enter classrooms in North Dakota, Minnesota and across the nation. By earning a bachelor’s degree in science education, you'll receive a broad preparation in biology, chemistry, physics and earth science.

Prospective science teachers may choose between two paths.

You may pursue a double major with a B.S. in a science such as biology or chemistry and a B.S.Ed. in secondary education.
Alternatively, the B.S.Ed. with major in Science offers an even distribution of course work across the sciences, including 24 credits from your preferred science discipline.

The B.S.Ed. in composite science education program is ideal for students interested in serving in rural areas where they may be required to teach a variety of science content and courses.

Accredited Science Education Degree

Teacher Education programs at UND meet the rigorous expectations set by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Programs (CAEP). The B.S.Ed in Composite Science Education also is approved by the North Dakota Educational Standards and Licensing Board.

Composite Science Education Degree

On graduation, our faculty will work with you to obtain appropriate materials needs to pursue appropriate teaching license and/or endorsement.
The Teacher Education program connects you with local volunteer opportunities at area schools, adding to teaching experience, building your resume and creating professional networks.
Join the largest pre-professional association for students entering teaching. Student North Dakota United (SNDU) is affiliated with the National Education Association, the largest professional teacher organization in the U.S.
You'll be eligible for scholarships through the College of Education & Human Development. As a future science teacher you may also qualify for state and federal funding to help offset the cost of your degree.
Gain a global perspective on education by studying abroad. Students recently have completed student teaching in Australia and Ireland.
Specialize in biology, chemistry, physics or earth science.

What can you do with a science education degree?

65k

Median annual salary for high school teachers, 2023

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

It's essential to research the specific licensure requirements in the state or country where you intend to teach, as each region may have its own set of criteria, examinations, and application procedures for teacher licensure.

You'll be eligible for licensure to teach in North Dakota after:

Completing a Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) with an overall grade point average of at least 2.75.
Passing state licensure exams.
Meeting the state's legal requirements with a satisfactory background check.

If seeking a license in North Dakota, you should apply to the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board prior to graduation.

If you're interested in a teacher license from states other than North Dakota, contact the Advising Office for the College of Education & Human Development to determine if this degree meets the criteria for licensure in your state.

Science Education Careers

Graduates of UND's science education program are in high demand due to an acute shortage of science teachers in grades 7-12. Job prospects look favorable for graduates who receive their teaching license for grades 5-12 in North Dakota.

Career opportunities are abundant in the region and in most places of the United States. Since 2003, North Dakota has listed secondary science on the nationwide teacher shortage area list. Science was declared a critical shortage area by the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction Education Standards and Practices Board.

Rural school districts as well as large cities, sorely need quality science teachers. You are likely to have many choices selecting an employer that fits your geographic preference.