Why Study Biology Education at OCC?
Turn your curiosity for the natural world into a professional teaching career. This concentration bridges the gap between scientific mastery and classroom leadership, giving you the tools to train the next generation of scientists and healthcare professionals. Whether you’re explaining the building blocks of life or the complexities of the human body, you will graduate ready to lead, inspire, and transfer seamlessly into a four-year program.
Note: The State of New Jersey requires a 3.0 Grade Point Average for any certification candidate.
What You Will Learn
Students in an AS in Science with a concentration in Biology Education will learn fundamental concepts in cell biology, genetics, ecology, and human anatomy while developing skills in scientific inquiry and laboratory techniques. You will also gain early training in educational theory and classroom practices to prepare for future teaching roles in science.
Core skills and competencies include:
- Core biological principles
- Laboratory and experimental techniques
- Scientific reasoning and problem‑solving
- Scientific communication skills
- Introductory teaching and classroom‑support skills
- Digital and technological tools for science
- Foundations of education and learning theory
Where Passion Becomes a Career
Biology education majors typically work as K–12 science teachers, preparing students in biology and life sciences in middle and high schools, with many also moving into curriculum development or instructional coaching. Some graduates pursue advanced degrees to teach at the college level or transition into informal education roles in museums, nature centers, or science outreach programs.
Transfer Opportunities
Credits earned at Ocean County College transfer to four-year colleges and universities, giving students the flexibility to continue their education at accredited institutions.
Connect with our Transfer Services team to ensure a smooth path to your bachelor’s degree.
At A Glance
The Biology Education Concentration offers three tracks based on your starting level in mathematics. Review the options below and choose the pathway that best fits your current preparation.
Algebra Track: For students who are earlier in their math sequence. This track ensures you are fully prepared before advancing into the biology, chemistry, and laboratory coursework at the core of this concentration.
Precalculus Track: For students who are approaching calculus. This track keeps you progressing through your science coursework in biology, chemistry, and laboratory science while completing the remaining math prerequisites.
Calculus Track: For students ready to begin calculus immediately. This is the most direct pathway through the biology, chemistry, and advanced laboratory coursework required for transfer to a four-year biology education program.
Cost
For Ocean County Residents
Summer – $206 per credit
Effective Fall – $216.00 per credit
Modality
In Person
Academic Pathways
This program is designed to transfer. Where you go next is up to you! After earning your degree at OCC, seamlessly transfer your credits to a four-year college or university, setting the stage for continued academic and career success.
Associate
Build a strong foundation in core biological principles and laboratory techniques while developing the critical thinking and data analysis skills required for entry-level technical roles.
Bachelors
Transfer to a four-year institution to specialize in fields such as genetics, microbiology, or ecology and gain the advanced scientific inquiry skills necessary for professional research.
Career
Prepare for diverse opportunities in healthcare, environmental science, and biotechnology, working as a biological scientist, laboratory technician, or forensic specialist in high-demand industries.
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