Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Biological science teachers at colleges and universities instruct students in courses like biology, microbiology, ecology, and genetics. They work in academic settings where they balance teaching responsibilities with research activities. The role combines classroom instruction, lab oversight, and scientific investigation.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against biological science teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes preparing and delivering lectures to classes of varying sizes, grading assignments and exams, and holding office hours for student questions. Teachers develop course materials and laboratory experiments, meet with colleagues about curriculum, and conduct their own research in campus labs or field settings. Time allocation shifts between semester teaching demands and periods focused more heavily on research projects.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIR. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
People who thrive in this work tend to be drawn to understanding how living systems function and enjoy investigating scientific questions deeply. They also value sharing knowledge with others and building relationships with students, combining a strong investigative drive with genuine interest in social interaction and mentoring.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $99,550 | $129,150 | $177,180 | 3,610 |
| Massachusetts | $78,980 | $105,050 | $163,500 | 2,060 |
| Michigan | $78,380 | $103,620 | $133,070 | 1,460 |
| New Hampshire | $78,100 | $102,410 | $160,070 | 170 |
| Rhode Island | $61,990 | $102,300 | $131,270 | 250 |
| Delaware | $83,200 | $101,380 | $126,230 | 130 |
| Oregon | $77,840 | $100,820 | $127,000 | 800 |
| Montana | $80,380 | $100,480 | $125,910 | 110 |
| Illinois | $62,740 | $99,060 | $132,780 | 2,340 |
| New Mexico | $76,460 | $98,820 | $129,280 | 150 |
| Colorado | $71,600 | $98,680 | $125,380 | 810 |
| New York | $75,500 | $98,180 | $132,570 | 3,870 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- National Board Certification - Science - Adolescence and Young Adulthood — National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against biological science teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1042.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.