A Career in Teaching is certainly an option for Biological Science graduates.  Some students will try and attain a place on a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) either here at Queen’s or in many of the Universities offering similar programmes throughout the UK after their degree.

Competition for teaching jobs after your PGCE is fierce in Northern Ireland, with many graduates finding initial employment throughout the UK where there has been a shortage of Science Teachers in previous years. 

Entry onto a PGCE programme is also competitive with course co-ordinators looking for the right set of skills, attributes and commitment to help inspire the next generation of young Scientists.  Experience of working with young people will be important.  Consider how you can gain this experience and consider accrediting this through Degree plus.

Other teaching roles

• For teaching roles in schools you must initially complete a PGCE.
• To teach in further and adult education, you will need to complete a teaching qualification appropriate to the institution. You may be able to do this whilst teaching post.
• To become a university lecturer, you will normally need a PhD in the specialist subject area you want to teach, although for more vocational courses experience in the relevant field may be suffice. Lecturers can study for teaching qualifications once in post.
• Many Biologists and Environmentalists will work for organisations who are heavily involved in the delivery of Environmental Education programmes, working with Schools, Voluntary and Community groups, a Teaching qualification will typically not be a requirement to work in such positions.