Biology (Teacher Certification), Bachelor of Science
(Focus: Life Sciences with 7th – 12th Grade UTeach Certification)
This program leads to a profession which requires an occupational license as defined under Texas Occupations Code 58.001 This requires that all applicants seeking to become licensed must undergo a criminal background check prior to licensure. Students in this program should check with the College of Education and P-16 Integration on the requirements for a criminal background check prior to student teaching.
The Department of Biology is committed to excellence in instruction, scholarly accomplishment, research, professional service and student success. The Department provides a broad-based undergraduate education in Biology so as to give students the opportunity to pursue a career best-suited to their interests and abilities. Graduates are prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education in graduate or professional school. The Department provides rigorous pre-professional preparation for students seeking careers in biological sciences and health professions.
The Department also provides a service function to the University by providing a means for students to fulfill their science requirement. Non-majors receive instruction in scientific methods, a general overview of biology, new discoveries, and the importance of biology in society. An M.S. degree program provides the opportunity for advanced study, specialization, and research. The program prepares students for further graduate study at the doctorate level and for careers in the biological sciences and related disciplines.
The Department of Biology is committed to the discovery of new knowledge through research that is conveyed to professional and lay constituencies through publication and presentation and participation in policy decision-making.
The Department of Biology also engages the community through outreach programs, continuing education, educational leadership, and collaborations with local school districts and governmental agencies. Faculty members are also encouraged to take leadership roles in societies of their research specialties.
Note: For a PDF version of the degree requirements for this program go to the Undergraduate Programs page on the UTRGV website.
Core Curriculum - 42 Hours
Students must fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements. The courses listed below satisfy both degree requirements and Core Curriculum requirements.
Mathematics – 3 hours from:
Life and Physical Science – 6 hours
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 hours
Integrative and Experiential Learning – 3 hours
Major Requirements – 60 Hours (37 advanced minimum)
The major requirements of the BS in Biology with Teacher Certification consist of a 48-hour Life Sciences Foundation and 12 hours of Diversity of Life courses.
Life Sciences Foundation – 48 hours (28 advanced)
Required:
Choose one:
Required (including honors equivalent):
Diversity of Life – 12 hours (9 advanced minimum)
Complete 12 advanced hours from the following sections:
Choose one Plants course from (3 hours minimum):
Choose one Animals course from (3 hours minimum):
Choose one Microbiology course from:
UTeach Certification – 21 Hours (19 advanced)
The courses listed below are required to seek the Life Science 7-12 certification.
Area of Certification: Life Science (7-12)
Total Credit Hours: 56
Total Credit Hours: 123
Admission, Progression, and Graduation Requirements, if applicable:
Progression Requirements
- Admission to the College of Education is required for participation in Apprentice Teaching and Seminar (UTCH 4101, 4601). Students unable to be admitted to UTCH 4601 and UTCH 4101 will be required to substitute advanced hours to satisfy the degree requirements, as recommended by advisor.
Graduation Requirements
- Minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for graduation. BIOL 1406 (or BIOL 1487 Honors), BIOL 1407 (or BIOL 1488 Honors), CHEM 1311/ 1111, CHEM 1312/1112, UTCH 1101, UTCH 1102, UTCH 3301, UTCH 3302, UTCH 3303, UTCH 4101, UTCH 4601 with a grade of ‘C’ or better grade in all of these courses; and approval of UTeach portfolio are required for graduation.