Bachelor of Education (Secondary Teaching) Earth and Environmental Science Major Teaching Area

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Murdoch University Australia

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Education (Secondary Teaching) with a Biology and Environmental Science major at Murdoch University prepares students to become confident secondary school teachers in science-related subjects. It is ideal for students who are interested in biology, earth systems, and environmental issues and want to turn that interest into a meaningful teaching career.

The program blends education theory with strong scientific knowledge, helping students develop both subject expertise and practical classroom teaching skills for Years 7–12.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students build the core foundations of teaching and education practice. They study units such as Living and Learning with Technology, Literacy and Numeracy in Secondary Teaching, and Adolescent Health and Development, which help them understand how students learn and develop. This year focuses on building confidence in basic teaching skills while strengthening science understanding.

Year 2

In the second year, students develop more advanced teaching strategies while deepening their science knowledge in biology and environmental science. Units such as Creating and Managing Effective Learning Environments and Country, Cultures, Peoples: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Perspectives Across the Curriculum help them design inclusive and engaging learning experiences. Students also begin supervised school observation and early teaching practice.

Year 3

In the third year, students focus on combining science content with practical teaching methods. They take advanced curriculum-related units in their science teaching area while completing extended school placements. This helps them strengthen classroom management, lesson planning, and the ability to explain complex scientific concepts clearly.

Year 4

In the final year, students complete extended teaching placements in secondary schools where they take full responsibility for classroom teaching under supervision. They refine their teaching practice in biology and environmental science and complete advanced curriculum planning. This year prepares them for full teacher registration and entry into the profession.

Focus Areas

Secondary science education, Biology teaching, Environmental science education, Curriculum and pedagogy, Classroom management, Educational psychology, Inclusive education, Indigenous perspectives in education, Assessment design, Professional teaching practice

Learning Outcomes

Graduates gain the ability to teach biology and environmental science effectively in secondary schools, along with strong classroom management and lesson planning skills. They also develop an understanding of adolescent learning, inclusive teaching practices, and how to communicate scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible way.

Professional Alignment (accreditation)

This program is accredited by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership and approved by the Teacher Registration Board of Western Australia, allowing graduates to become registered secondary school teachers in Australia.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Murdoch University is well regarded for its practical, classroom-focused approach to teacher education. The program is known for strong school placement experience and its focus on producing job-ready graduates for secondary science teaching.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Murdoch University, the Bachelor of Education in Earth and Environmental Science is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to engage directly with the environment and develop the competencies needed to become an effective educator in this vital field. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance your learning experience, ensuring you are well-prepared for your future career.

Here are some of the key experiential learning opportunities and resources available to you in this program:

- Field Trips: Engage in hands-on learning through field trips to various ecosystems, where you can observe and study environmental processes in real-world settings.
- Laboratories: Utilize specialized laboratories equipped for environmental science research, allowing you to conduct experiments and analyze data.
- Digital Tools: Gain proficiency in industry-standard software such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for mapping and spatial analysis, which is crucial for environmental education.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on group projects that simulate real-world environmental challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Internships: Take advantage of internship opportunities with local schools, environmental organizations, and government agencies, providing you with valuable experience and networking opportunities.
- Research Institutes: Access resources from Murdoch's research institutes focused on environmental science, where you can learn from leading experts in the field.
- Libraries: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to a wide range of academic journals, books, and online databases related to Earth and Environmental Science.

These hands-on experiences are integral to your education, ensuring that you not only learn the theory but also apply it in practical settings. By choosing the Bachelor of Education in Earth and Environmental Science at Murdoch University, you are setting yourself up for a rewarding career that makes a difference in the world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Murdoch University’s Bachelor of Education (Secondary Teaching) with an Earth and Environmental Science teaching area are well prepared to begin careers as secondary school science teachers. This qualification allows graduates to teach Earth and Environmental Science across Years 7–12, covering areas such as climate systems, geology, sustainability, and environmental change. Typical career paths include Secondary Science Teacher, Earth and Environmental Science Teacher, Environmental Education Specialist, Science Coordinator, and Curriculum Developer.

Progression and future opportunities are strengthened through structured training, professional recognition, and strong university support:

Murdoch Careers and Employability Services assist students with resume writing, interview preparation, job applications, and connections with school and education employers
Extensive school placements provide real classroom experience in secondary schools, helping students transition smoothly into teaching roles
Students gain experience using SimLab simulated classroom technology to practise teaching strategies and classroom management before entering real classrooms
The program is accredited by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership and approved by the Teacher Registration Board of Western Australia, allowing graduates to become registered teachers in Australia
Strong alignment with the education sector supports employment in both public and private secondary schools
High demand for science teachers, particularly in Earth and Environmental Science, supports strong and stable job opportunities
The qualification provides long-term career security in a regulated and nationally recognised profession

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, students can pursue postgraduate study such as a Master of Education, Master of Curriculum and Instruction, or specialised qualifications in educational leadership, inclusive education, or science education. With experience, graduates may also progress into senior roles such as Head of Department, Curriculum Coordinator, or School Principal.