Learn more about teaching Biology (Grades 7-12) – NYC Teaching Collaborative - Support Center

What is Biology (Grades 7-12)?

As a biology candidate, you have the exciting opportunity to show students the relevance of Biology with hands-on projects, field trips, and real-life examples of scientific concepts being applied in the world around them.

Armed with content knowledge, proven teaching strategies, and standards-aligned instruction, you will help students develop the problem-solving and critical thinking skills they will need to succeed in college and careers.

Meet Catherine, Biology Teacher (Grades 7-12), NYCTC Lead Coach & NYCTC Ambassador

What brought me to the NYC Teaching Collaborative: I am an alumni of NYCTF!

I currently work in Manhattan.

My certification area is Chemistry (Grades 7-12).

I am a Lead Coach and Ambassador for the New York City Teaching Collaborative.

I graduated from City College with a degree in Chemistry (Grades 7-12). While this university has supported this subject for candidates in the past for our alternative certification programs, I cannot confirm that will be the case for this year. Please be in touch with the Enrollment team for university assignment updates.

What my class schedule looks like:

What my classroom looks like:

What my schedule looks like:

*AIS- academic intervention services

Why the Teaching Collaborative is the right choice for all teachers:

NYCTC gives you the opportunity to enter the classroom at a time when education is changing and developing. This is an exciting time that needs creative, educated, and well-prepared educators to make real change! NYCTC will set you up to be successful from day one with your students. There is an amazing support network for partner teachers along the way and an emphasis on practice to ensure you are growing and developing quickly to meet the needs of your students. The NYC DOE and NYCTC are dedicated to ensuring that their workforce has all the resources they need to best support students in classrooms throughout our city.

Eligibility Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in:

1. Biology

2. Botany

3. Zoology

4. Biochemistry

30 credits in Biology coursework (undergraduate and graduate). Biology coursework must have a grade of C or higher.

Candidates who receive offers to NYC Department of Education alternative certification programs will have their transcripts evaluated by their university (after enrollment) to determine if they have a sufficient mix of liberal arts coursework to meet New York State requirements; some candidates may be required to take additional coursework to earn their Initial Certification. This coursework will be at their own expense . Universities typically evaluate transcripts for liberal arts credits across the following disciplines: Artistic Expression, English, Foreign Language, Humanities, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science/History. 

Certification and Testing Requirements

You will receive certification in Biology Adolescent Education (Grades 7-12). Successful completion of your master's degree coursework will lead to a Master of Science for Teachers Program: Adolescent Education Biology Grades 7 – 12.

While you complete your master’s degree coursework, you will work in your full-time NYC DOE school position under a Transitional B certificate issued by New York State. The Transitional B certificate is valid for up to three years on the condition that you remain in good standing in your NYC DOE alternative certification program.

You must take and pass  the two certification exams listed below in order to be eligible for certification in Biology Adolescent Education (Grades 7-12).