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Biology teachers, in particular, play an important role in developing the next generation of doctors, nurses, life scientists, and engineers. Their passion for conveying knowledge and an appreciation for living things helps students understand how organisms are connected to each other and to their environments.
This 23-credit certificate is available only to students pursuing a BA or BS in biology. Students who complete both the bachelor's degree and this certificate will be eligible for initial Virginia licensure in secondary education 6–12 with an endorsement in biology.
- Turn your passion into a high school or middle school student’s favorite subject by completing a state-approved program for Virginia teacher licensure in secondary education.
- Complete clinical experiences in one of 18 partner schools—know and be known in your school as you learn to be a teacher.
- Work with dedicated school- and university-based teacher educators committed to your success as a new teacher.
- Leave our program with the tools to bring about meaningful change through education by learning to focus on social justice, advocacy, and teacher leadership.
- Includes both on-campus and online courses.
- On-campus courses are held at Mason’s Fairfax campus.
- A 6-credit internship is required.
George Mason University will verify completion of the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) state-approved preparation program at the graduate or undergraduate level. Such verification does not guarantee the issuance of a Virginia Collegiate Professional, Postgraduate Professional, or Pupil Personnel license from the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is solely the student's responsibility to comply with all requirements for licensure by the Commonwealth. Under Virginia law, a social security number is required for licensure.
This program has been identified by George Mason University as one that may lead to a career requiring professional licensure/certification. Federal regulations require George Mason to disclose information as to whether this program meets/does not meet the educational requirements for licensure/certification in your state, or whether such a determination has not been made. Please consult our Licensure Disclosure Tool for the disclosure statement specific to your desired state/program combination.
Teacher Licensure Coursework
Total Credits: 23
Fall Semester
(classes starting in August) |
Spring Semester
(classes starting in January) |
Summer Semester
(classes starting in May, June, or July) |
| Applications not accepted for this term |
Applications not accepted for this term |
Applications not accepted for this term |
For more information and to apply, visit the admissions website.
* Priority deadline ensures consideration for the intended semester as well as financial aid options for students. Programs will continue to review applications until at capacity. Some programs do not review applications past the priority deadline.
| TUITION CLASSIFICATION |
COST PER CREDIT |
| Virginia Resident |
$592.50
(includes MSF*) |
| Non-Virginia Resident |
$1,612.00
(includes MSF*) |
CEHD Course Fee
($25/credit with higher per credit or flat course fees for internship and select ATEP, RECR, and RMGT courses) |
$25 - $257 |
| Total Cost for Virginia Residents per Credit |
$617.50 - $849.50 |
| Total Cost for Non-Virginia Residents per Credit |
$1,637.00 - $1,869.00 |
Undergraduate New Student Fee
(non-refundable, one-time fee) |
$350 | $275 for transfer students |
Please Note: Refer to the Students Accounts Office website for more information on tuition and fees. Various course and lab fees may be assessed depending on the course(s) in which the student is enrolled.
*Mandatory Student Fee (MSF): $159.50
For information on loans and scholarships, visit the Office of Student Financial Aid. For information regarding grants, tuition waivers, and other merit aid, please inquire with your graduate department. Also, many school districts offer tuition reimbursement options. Speak to your employer for more information.
The secondary education (SEED) program includes multiple members of our advising team, including the SEED Academic Advisor and a subject area advisor for subject area track (English, history/social science, biology, chemistry, Earth science, and computer science). You should meet with the academic advisor and your subject area advisor at least once per semester to ensure that you are on track to complete your program successfully. Your advisors can do more than simply help you understand your program requirements; they can connect you to university resources that can aid in your success and can help you find ways to become engaged in learning outside of the classroom.
Secondary Education (SEED) Academic Advisor
Patty Hibner
Thompson Hall, Suite 1800
phibner@gmu.edu
703.993.3931
Secondary Education (SEED) Subject Area Advisors
English: Dr. Kristien Zenkov, kzenkov@gmu.edu
History/Social Science: Dr. Andrew Porter, aporter7@gmu.edu
Science (Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physics): Dr. Erin Peters-Burton, epeters1@gmu.edu
Math: Dr. Theresa Wills, twills@gmu.edu
Computer Science: Dr. Erdogan Kaya, ekaya3@gmu.edu
Kristien Zenkov
Academic Program Coordinator
Erdogan Kaya
Erin Peters-Burton
Theresa Wills