MA in Biological Science

Master of Arts Science Education (Biological Science, 5-12)

Degree Overview

Our online master’s degree in biology will help you reach your potential. The M.A. in Science Education (Biological Science, 5-12) with its specialization in biology prepares you for secondary certification to teach high school biology. You will become a highly qualified high school biology teacher ready to play a critical role in a student’s development.

Who the program is for:

• Licensed teachers with a bachelor’s degree who wish to earn secondary certification in biology as well as a master’s degree.
• Individuals who can typically spend 15 or more hours per week on their studies.

Note: 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."

This program will be flexible and adaptable to your schedule. Click here to learn how your program works.

What You’ll Learn -- Areas of Study:

In this online master’s in biology, you’ll learn all the essential skills and knowledge needed. This program includes three domains of study and completion of a teacher work sample.

• Natural Science
• General Science Content
• Advanced Biology Content

Total Program: 33 Competency Units (credit equivalents)

This program also includes a 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.

More details about your challenging course of study

View the Program Guide (PDF)

Answers to your questions
Click a question, see the answer below.

• Will my state recognize my degree?
• How will I complete my degree?
• Is financial aid available?

Will my state recognize my degree?

Yes. The WGU Teachers College currently serves over 5,000 students throughout the United States. Our master’s degrees are accepted as innovative, leading-edge, credible programs. All teaching programs at WGU are also NCATE-accredited. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor for more details. You can also learn more about WGU’s Student Success and Performance Data.

How will I complete my degree?

As a WGU student, you take and complete assessments. You’ll prepare for your assessments by engaging various learning resources including textbooks, web tutorials, and courses. You will determine what learning resources are best for you in consultation with your mentor using your personalized Degree Plan. You can learn more by exploring the WGU Experience. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor who can explain this program in greater depth.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, WGU offers federal financial aid. Loans are available to most students, regardless of financial need. Grants that don’t require repayment are also available for those with financial need. You can check into your financial aid eligibility at any time during the admissions process. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor to learn more or visit the Financial Aid section of the website.