Biological Science

  • Teacher Certification
Three young students make notes while looking at samples through binocular microscopes.

The Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification in Biological Science is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and are seeking teacher certification without pursuing a full master’s program. This pathway prepares you to become a licensed P–12 biology teacher in New Jersey. Upon successful completion, you will be recommended for a Certificate of Eligibility With Advanced Standing (CEAS), allowing you to apply for teaching positions throughout the state and in other states with similar certification standards. 

You will be required to complete a provisional year of teaching under New Jersey’s Beginning Teacher Induction Program to earn a permanent, standard license. The program meets all content and pedagogical training requirements, including 30 credits in biology and 12 at the advanced undergraduate or graduate level. It is ideal for career changers or individuals seeking certification-only pathways to the classroom. 

See the curriculum.

Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • *F1/J1 visa seeking students are not eligible for this program.

Application Checklist

  • Application Deadline: July 1 for Fall admission; December 1 for Spring.
  • Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • Resume: Required
  • Letters of Recommendation: Two.
  • Essay/Personal Statement: A major goal of Montclair State University’s teacher education program is to educate teachers who understand how to prepare their students for democratic citizenship. Democratic citizenship includes the ability to think critically and to play an active role in improving our society. Please review the Portrait of a Teacher. You will note that several of the standards in the Portrait focus on this important goal. For the Statement of Objectives, please write an essay of three to four double-spaced, typed pages and incorporate items 5 and 6  from the Portrait of a Teacher to address the following questions:
    • In your life as a citizen, student, and future teacher of this society, what experiences are reflective of this standard? Additionally, what experiences in your life have conflicted with this standard?
    • Envision yourself as a teacher. How would you foster a classroom climate that would promote this standard in your discipline?
    • You might begin by reflecting on some of your own classroom experiences as a student. Which things would you do differently and which would you emulate in creating such a classroom climate?
  • Standardized Test Scores: See information on the Center for Student Success and Educator Excellence.

Questions? We're Here to Help.

If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please contact Graduate Admissions.

Graduate Admissions Office

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Jennifer Goeke

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.