Degree Overview
Bachelor of Arts Science (Biological Science, 5-12) - Leads to Teacher Licensure

Our online biology degree prepares you to teach how the world works and evolves. The B.A. in Science (Biological Science, 5-12) with its specialization in biology teaches you the skills and knowledge in general science, advanced biology, and teaching methods necessary to become a highly qualified high school biology teacher.
WGU is the first exclusively online university to receive NCATE accreditation for its degree programs that lead to teacher licensure, a testament to the fact that WGU graduates "have the knowledge and skills to be effective in helping all students learn."
Texas Licensure
The B.A. in Science (Biological Science, 5-12) program prepares students to receive a Life Science 7-12 license in the state of Texas. Students in Texas must be licensed in WGU’s home state of Utah before applying for their teaching license in Texas. Click here for additional details about Texas licensure requirements.
Who the Program is For:
- Individuals with a considerable science background (biology-specific is helpful) who need a bachelor’s degree and want to become a high school biology teacher.
- Unlicensed teachers, substitute teachers, career changers, retired military personnel, school paraprofessionals, and others who feel the call to teach.
- Individuals who have completed some college coursework or have applicable work experience.
- Individuals who can typically spend 15 or more hours per week on their studies.
This program will be flexible and adaptable to your schedule. Demonstration teaching and the cohort seminar are offered twice each year, in the fall and spring. Click here to learn how this program works.
What You'll Learn
Essential Knowledge and Skills
We developed our biological science education program with significant input from experts and educational leaders who serve on our Education Program Council. This online degree program requires the completion of coursework to ensure you have the essential skills and knowledge you need to become a licensed teacher, as well as practice teaching in an actual classroom and the completion of a professional portfolio. The B.A. in Science (Biological Science, 5-12) is nationally recognized by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).
Key Subject Areas
These Courses Add to Your Credentials
Foundations of Teaching
Health Sciences
General Science Content
Mathematics Content
Biology Content
Science Education
Pedagogy
Field Experience
Demonstration Teaching (practice teaching)
Core Subject Areas
These General Education Assessments May Be Cleared through Transfer Credit
English Composition I and II
Intermediate and College Algebra
Introduction to Communication
Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan
Survey of United States History
Introduction to Humanities
Home Science Lab
The self-contained laboratory kit includes the lab manual, science equipment, specimens, supplies, and chemicals necessary to complete college lab experiments at home.
Practice Teaching
In-classroom experience is an invaluable part of becoming a highly qualified teacher. Your in-classroom experience will help you elevate the academic knowledge and teaching skills you’ve developed into a practical way of effectively and confidently tackling the challenges of your own classroom.
Professional Portfolio
The online B.A. Science (Biological Science, 5-12) degree program also requires the successful completion of a professional portfolio.
Your professional portfolio is something to be proud of – it will include your resume and Philosophy of Teaching Statement and serve as a way to showcase the skills you have acquired throughout your degree program and demonstration teaching. You'll take what you've learned and apply it to a real-world situation by recommending strategies for effectively handling actual issues you'll face in the workplace.