Biology

The cornerstone of this program is the flexibility to study a diverse array of biology-related fields. From Ornithology to Cancer Biology. From Neuroanatomy to Microbiology. This program can be tailored to the specific needs and passions of the student. This allows our majors to be wildlife biologists, microbiologists, Pre-Med, Biology teachers, and more!

Biology Department Tier System

The Biology department uses a Tier system for our research students. 

• Tier One: No prior research experience
• Tier Two: Prior research experience in our department or has taken Research Methods or Molecular Biology
• Tier Three: Over a year of research experience in our department

Research Faculty and Staff

Kyle Brawner, Beth Conway, Brian Ellis, John Lewis, Hannah King (Lab Manager), Bonny Millimaki, Josh Owens, Amanda Williams

Fellowships/Partnerships

J.S. Ward Society, Langford-Yates Fellowship, Biology Department Summer Research, Warner Parks

Program Overview

Education Level(s) Offered: Secondary (6-12)

As a biology teaching major, you'll get to network during clinical practice classes, which will set you up for employment by graduation. You'll have the chance to go to the Tennessee Science Teachers Association meeting or the National Science Teachers Association meeting. You'll get to learn about teaching ideas, influential research and network with other science teachers from across the U.S.

Let us ready you to be a middle or high school teacher. As a biology teaching major, you'll get to network during clinical practice classes, which will set you up for employment by graduation. You'll have the chance to go to the Tennessee Science Teachers Association meeting or the National Science Teachers Association meeting. You'll get to learn about teaching ideas, influential research, and network with other science teachers from across the U.S.

Program Foundations

Biology teaching majors receive the same core as biology (general) majors. A special course developed only for those pursuing teaching is Methods of Teaching Biology. This is a 3-hour course usually taken with Clinical Practice II, which combines content with pedagogy. In this course, students learn not only their craft but also have time structured for edTPA, safety in the classroom, and grant writing.

Want to learn more about obtaining your Biology Teaching degree? Explore the undergraduate degree process to become a teacher.

How to become a biology teacher