student teachers

Bachelor of Science in Biology and Education

Double major

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Programme Type

Full-time

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Singapore’s globally recognised education system is built on NIE’s sustained commitment to high-quality teacher preparation and educational research over the past 70 years. This foundation supports the development of science educators who are inquiry-driven and adaptable to scientific advancement. 

The Biology major adopts a broad approach to exploring the science of life at all levels, from molecules to ecosystems. Courses cover traditional and modern biology, including evolution, diversity, and ecosystems; cell structure and function; molecular genetics and microbiology; current genetics; physiological and biochemical processes in plants and animals; molecular biotechnology; behavioural biology; and developmental biology. 

A range of teaching modes, including lectures, practical sessions, field trips, and academic exercises, equips you with critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and communication skills. 

NIE is ranked #3 in Asia and #8 globally for Education in the 2025 QS World University Rankings by Subject.

NIE’s programme comprises courses on specialised subject knowledge in at least one academic discipline, education and pedagogy courses for effective teaching. 

Student teachers can gain international perspectives on education, through our International Practicum, Semester Exchange and Service and Leadership Training programmes.  

Altruistic virtues are also infused in our curriculum. For example, our student teachers can reach out and render service to the community through our Group Endeavours in Service Learning (GESL) projects.

Prospective applicants are required to fulfil both NTU/NIE and MOE requirements. For the MOE requirements, please refer to the link below for more information. For the academic discipline requirements, please see the details outlined below. 

At least a Grade C at GCE 'A' Level in 
Biology 
 
Or 
 
At least a Grade C at H2 level in Biology 
 
Or 
 
At least a Grade 5 pass at Higher level in 
Biology (IB Diploma) 
 
Or 
 
At least a major CAP of 3.0 for NUS High 
School Diploma in Biology 
 
Or 
 
At least an overall CAP of 2.0 for NUS High 
School Diploma in Biology 
 
Or 
 
A good polytechnic diploma in the approved 
Biology-related disciplines. 

Important  Note  
 
Meeting the minimum requirement for a specific academic subject does not guarantee the allocation of the academic subject.  

Allocation of academic subject is dependent on ranking based on student teachers’ qualifications and results (at the discretion of the departments) as well as the availability of vacancies. 

Graduands will receive a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Biology and Education conferred by Nanyang Technological University (NTU).

It is a sponsored undergraduate programme by the Ministry of Education.

  • Programme length: 4 years
  • Bond length: 4 years

NIE's double major degree programme gives recognition to the rigour and depth of content knowledge that NIE undergraduates go through.

Find out more here. 

In addition to a double major programme, undergraduates will also complete a minor in one of these areas, depending on their teaching track:

Primary Teaching Track:

  • Primary Level Subjects (NIE)*

* Primary Level Subjects must comprise subject knowledge courses from two primary level subjects. For example, a student teacher with 2 teaching subjects (e.g., English and Mathematics) would need to have courses in both English and Mathematics included in the Minor for Primary Level Subjects (NIE).

Secondary Teaching Track:

  • Art (NIE)
  • Biology (NIE)
  • Chemistry (NIE)
  • Chinese Literature (NIE)
  • Drama (NIE)
  • English Language & Linguistics (NIE)
  • English Literature (NIE)
  • Geography (NIE)
  • History (NIE)
  • Malay Literature (NIE)
  • Mathematics & Computational Thinking (NIE)
  • Music (NIE)
  • Physics & Energy Studies (NIE)
  • Social Studies (NIE)
  • Tamil Literature & CCE (NIE)

Please note that these minors are exclusive to NIE student teachers only.

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