Five-year Degree in Biology or Physics (B.S.) and Secondary Education (M.Ed.)
This dual-degree program takes fives years to complete, and enables students to earn both the B.S. and M.Ed. degrees along with the state certification necessary to teach middle- and high-school grades. Numerous job opportunities are available for students interested in becoming science teachers in grades 6-12. In fact, in Illinois the need for science teachers is critical.
The dual-degree program is an appealing option because it offers greater opportunities for advancement and a higher salary base for the graduate than earning certfication at the undergraduate level. Since completing both the B.S. degree and the secondary education certificate typically takes more than four years anyway, undergraduate secondary education students majoring in biology or physics are encouraged to go ahead and continue through the master's program.
- Abilities and Educational Dispositions
- Admission
- Core Curriculum
- Course Offerings
- Course Sequence
Biology
Physics - Current Student Resources
- Degree Requirements
- Education Core Curriculum
- Financial Assistance
- Frequently Asked Questions/ FAQ
- Policies and Procedures for receiving Illinois Certification
- School of Education Faculty and Staff
- State of Illinois Testing Requirements
- Tuition
Degree Requirements
The student must declare for the program no later than the beginning of junior year. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or better to be admitted to the program. The student will take nine hours of graduate-level courses between junior and senior years that will apply toward the 128 hours needed for the B.S. degree.
The student also will complete 30 hours of graduate-level work required for the M.Ed., and take and pass the Illinois State Board of Education Test of Basic Skills and the Content Examination in Biology or Physics. As students progress through this program, they compile a portfolio of their work to be presented at the completion of all coursework.
