Bachelor of Education (Secondary Teaching) Biology 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 who can inspire students in science and sustainability. It is ideal for those who enjoy biology, environmental science, and working with young people, and want to turn that passion into a teaching career.

The degree blends education theory with strong science knowledge, helping students build both subject expertise and practical classroom teaching skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students build the foundations of both teaching and science education. They study core education 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 grow in school settings. This year focuses on developing confidence in basic teaching principles and strengthening scientific understanding.

Year 2

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

Year 3

In the third year, students focus on integrating science knowledge with practical teaching methods. They study advanced biology and environmental science concepts alongside professional teaching practice, while also participating in more structured school placements. This year strengthens lesson planning, classroom management, and the ability to teach complex scientific ideas in an engaging way.

Year 4

In the final year, students complete extended teaching placements in secondary schools where they take on real classroom responsibilities under supervision. They refine their teaching style, complete advanced curriculum planning in biology and environmental science, and prepare for full professional teaching registration. This year focuses heavily on real-world teaching experience and career readiness.

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 develop strong skills in teaching biology and environmental science, classroom management, lesson planning, and student assessment. They also gain a deep understanding of adolescent learning, inclusive education practices, and how to communicate scientific concepts clearly and effectively in a school environment.

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. This means graduates are eligible for teacher registration and can work as qualified secondary school teachers across Australia.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Murdoch University is well known for its practical, classroom-focused teacher education programs. The degree is valued for its strong school placement structure and emphasis on real teaching experience, helping graduates become job-ready teachers with confidence in classroom practice.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Murdoch University, the Bachelor of Education in Biology and Environmental Science Major Teaching Area 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 subject matter through hands-on experiences. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance your learning journey, ensuring you are well-prepared for a career in education.

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

- Laboratories: You will have access to modern science laboratories equipped with the latest technology for conducting experiments and research in biology and environmental science.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to various ecosystems and environmental sites, providing real-world context to your studies and allowing you to observe and analyze biological and environmental phenomena firsthand.

- Internships: Gain valuable experience through internship opportunities in schools and educational organizations, where you can apply your knowledge in real classroom settings and develop your teaching skills.

- Group Projects: Collaborate with fellow students on group projects that encourage teamwork and problem-solving, simulating the collaborative nature of teaching and learning in educational environments.

- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced digital tools and software for data analysis, research, and presentation, preparing you for the tech-savvy demands of modern education.

- Research Institutes: Engage with research institutes affiliated with the university, where you can participate in ongoing research projects and gain insights into current environmental issues.

- Libraries and Learning Resources: Access extensive library resources, including digital databases and academic journals, to support your research and coursework.

These hands-on experiences and resources are designed to ensure that you not only learn the theory but also apply it in practical settings, making you a well-rounded candidate for a teaching career.

Embarking on this journey will not only equip you with the knowledge you need but also the practical skills that will set you apart in the field of education. I encourage you to consider applying and take the first step towards a rewarding career!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Murdoch University’s Bachelor of Education (Secondary Teaching) with a Biology and Environmental Science teaching area are well prepared to begin their careers as secondary school science teachers. The qualification enables graduates to teach biology and environmental science across Years 7 to 12, with strong demand for qualified science educators in schools across Australia. Typical career paths include Secondary Science Teacher, Biology Teacher, Environmental Science Teacher, Science Coordinator, and Curriculum or Learning Area Specialist.

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 networks and education employers
The degree includes extensive school placements, giving students real classroom experience in different secondary school environments
Students train in simulated teaching environments using SimLab technology, helping them practice classroom management and lesson delivery before entering schools
The program is accredited by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership and approved by the Teacher Registration Board of Western Australia, making graduates eligible for teacher registration across Australia
Strong alignment with the education sector ensures graduates are well prepared for employment in both public and private secondary schools
High demand for science teachers, particularly in biology and environmental science, supports strong employment prospects
The profession offers long-term career stability due to national teacher registration requirements and ongoing demand in schools

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, special education, or science education. With experience, graduates can also progress into leadership roles such as Head of Department, Curriculum Coordinator, or Principal.