How to Become a Science Teacher: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Science teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the minds that will drive future innovation, discovery, and problem-solving. By inspiring curiosity, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering a love for the natural world, they help students build the foundation for careers in everything from healthcare and engineering to environmental science and technology. For those aspiring to become science educators, understanding the salary potential and various career paths is more than just practical; it’s essential. It allows them to plan their educational journey, set realistic goals, and make informed decisions about their future.

This article will guide you through the steps to becoming a science teacher, explore salary expectations, and outline the diverse career opportunities available in the field. It will equip you with the insights you need to embark on a meaningful and rewarding teaching career.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Science Teacher

• The salary of a science teacher can vary based on factors such as location, level of education, teaching experience, and school district. 

• On average, elementary and middle school science teachers earn between $50,000 to $70,000 annually.
• High school science teachers typically earn $55,000 to $75,000.
• Teachers with advanced degrees or certifications (such as a Master's in Education or National Board Certification) often command higher salaries.
• In-demand specialties like physics and chemistry may come with additional incentives or stipends in some districts.
• Teaching licenses are typically required, and most states expect a bachelor's degree in education or a science-related field. Some roles, especially in higher education or specialized STEM programs, may require a master’s degree or additional certifications.
• Salaries and job opportunities can differ greatly depending on the region too. Urban and suburban school districts often offer higher pay, while rural areas may have fewer resources, but increased demand for qualified science teachers.

Table of Contents

1. What is a science teacher?
2. What are the responsibilities of a science teacher?
3. What are the steps to becoming a science teacher for 2025?
4. What specializations are available for science teachers?
5. Where can I work as a science teacher?
6. How much do science teachers make?
7. What is the job outlook for science teachers?
8. Should Science Teachers Invest in Advanced Degrees for Professional Growth?
9. How can professional networking and mentorship enhance a science teacher's career growth?
10. How Can Continuous Professional Development Enhance a Science Teacher’s Impact?
11. What career advancement opportunities are available to science teachers?
12. What are the perks and drawbacks of becoming a science teacher?
13. What are the alternative careers for science teachers?
14. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Science Teacher

What is a science teacher?

A science teacher is an educator who specializes in teaching scientific subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, or general science. They work at various educational levels—from elementary and middle school to high school and beyond—helping students develop an understanding of scientific concepts and the world around them. 

Science teachers are essential in promoting scientific literacy, encouraging curiosity, and preparing students for further studies or careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. While their day-to-day duties may vary depending on the grade level or subject area, their primary focus is to make science accessible, engaging, and relevant to students’ lives.

STEM-related teaching roles are a national priority, with over $3 billion in federal funding allocated to improve STEM education annually. In 2023, the White House set aside more than $4 billion.

What are the responsibilities of a science teacher?

Science teachers play a vital role in shaping how students understand the world around them. Their responsibilities go beyond simply delivering facts; they are educators, mentors, and facilitators of hands-on learning experiences. Here's a breakdown of their core responsibilities:

• Planning and Delivering Lessons: Science teachers design engaging lesson plans that align with curriculum standards and learning objectives. They break down complex scientific concepts—such as ecosystems, chemical reactions, or Newton’s laws—into understandable and relatable content for students at different grade levels.
• Encouraging Scientific Inquiry: A key role of a science teacher is to foster curiosity and critical thinking. They encourage students to ask questions, form hypotheses, conduct experiments, and analyze results—helping them develop essential problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Conducting Lab Activities and Experiments: Science instruction often includes hands-on experiments. Teachers must ensure these are conducted safely, properly set up lab materials, and guide students through scientific methods and procedures. They also teach students how to record observations and interpret data.
• Assessing Student Progress: Science teachers regularly evaluate student understanding through quizzes, tests, lab reports, and classroom participation. They use this feedback to adjust instruction and provide extra support where needed.
• Integrating Technology and Real-World Applications: Modern science teaching involves integrating technology such as simulations, digital microscopes, or interactive models. Teachers also connect lessons to real-world issues—like climate change or public health—to make learning more relevant and engaging.
• Classroom Management and Support: Maintaining a positive and focused learning environment is essential. Science teachers manage behavior, encourage collaboration, and support diverse learning needs to ensure that all students can thrive.
• Professional Development and Collaboration: To stay current with scientific advancements and teaching strategies, science teachers often participate in ongoing professional development. They also collaborate with colleagues to share resources, co-plan interdisciplinary lessons, and contribute to school improvement initiatives.

In short, science teachers wear many hats—they’re educators, experiment facilitators, safety supervisors, and lifelong learners. Their work lays the foundation for scientific literacy and can inspire students to pursue STEM careers in the future.

If mathematics is more up your alley, you may want to focus on math education instead. Check out these math teacher requirements to help you get started.

What are the steps to becoming a science teacher?

Becoming a science teacher involves a mix of education, training, and certification. While the exact requirements can vary by state or country, here are the general steps most aspiring science teachers follow:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree. Start by completing a bachelor’s degree in education with a concentration in science, or in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. If your degree is in a pure science subject, you may need to take additional education degree courses later to meet teaching requirements.
2. Complete a Teacher Preparation Program. If your undergraduate degree doesn’t include teacher training, you’ll need to enroll in a state-approved teacher preparation program. These programs provide coursework in educational theory and classroom management, as well as hands-on teaching experience through student teaching.
3. Gain Classroom Experience. Student teaching is a crucial part of becoming a science teacher. This supervised experience allows you to practice teaching in a real classroom, apply what you’ve learned, and receive feedback from experienced educators. Depending on your major and your concentration, you need to decide whether you will teach elementary, middle school, or secondary school science. But first, what do middle school teachers do, or what do elementary and secondary school teachers do, for that matter? Information is available at your fingertips.
4. Obtain State Certification or Licensure. After completing your education and training, you must pass your state’s required exams to earn a teaching license. These typically include general teaching knowledge and subject-specific assessments in your science specialty.
5. Apply for Teaching Positions.  With your certification in hand, you can start applying for science teaching jobs at your desired grade level. Schools may look for candidates with strong subject knowledge, classroom experience, and a passion for engaging students in science.
6. Consider Advanced Degrees or Endorsements (Optional). To boost your career prospects or qualify for higher-paying roles, you may choose to pursue a master’s degree in education or your specific science field. Some teachers also earn additional endorsements to teach specialized subjects or multiple grade levels.

The chart below shows that the highest educational attainment for most science teachers is a bachelor's degree, with 70% being bachelor's degree holders.

What specializations are available for science teachers?

Science teaching is a broad field with several specialization options, allowing educators to focus on the areas they’re most passionate about. These specializations not only shape the subjects they teach but can also impact career opportunities and advancement. Here are some common specializations available for science teachers:

• Biology. Biology teachers focus on the study of living organisms, covering topics like genetics, ecosystems, human anatomy, and cellular processes. This specialization is ideal for those interested in life sciences and health-related fields. 
• Chemistry. Chemistry teachers explore the properties, composition, and reactions of matter. They often conduct experiments to help students understand chemical principles and processes. This specialization is in high demand in many schools and is available to those who are pursuing a secondary education degree online or on-campus.
• Physics. Physics teachers teach students about the laws of motion, energy, electricity, magnetism, and the structure of the universe. This specialization often appeals to those with strong math and analytical skills.
• Earth and Space Science. This specialization covers topics such as geology, meteorology, astronomy, and environmental science. Earth science teachers help students understand the physical processes that shape our planet and the universe.
• Environmental Science.  Environmental science teachers focus on ecological issues, sustainability, and the impact of human activity on the planet. This specialization is particularly relevant today as environmental awareness continues to grow.
• General Science. At the elementary or middle school level, science teachers may teach general science, which combines concepts from biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science. This provides a broad foundation for younger students.
• Integrated or STEM Science. Some teachers specialize in integrated science or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, which blends disciplines to encourage innovation, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
• Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Science. Experienced science teachers may choose to specialize in teaching AP or IB courses, which are college-level classes offered in high school. These roles often require deeper subject knowledge and additional training or certification.

The chart below shows the distribution of preferred majors among science teachers. Biology is the most popular choice, with 27% of science teachers majoring in that field.

Where can I work as a science teacher?

Science teachers have a variety of workplace options, depending on their specialization, level of education, and career goals. While most science teachers work in traditional school settings, there are many other environments where their skills and knowledge are highly valued. Here are some of the most common and alternative places you can work in as a science teacher:

• Public Schools. Public elementary, middle, and high schools are the most common workplaces for science teachers. These schools follow state-approved curricula and offer stable employment with benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. 
• Private Schools. Private schools may have smaller class sizes and more flexibility in their teaching methods. Some may focus on specific educational philosophies or religious principles, and may or may not require state certification.
• Charter Schools. Charter schools operate independently but are publicly funded. They often encourage innovative teaching approaches and may offer more creative freedom in lesson planning and curriculum design. 
• International Schools. For those interested in teaching abroad, international schools provide the opportunity to work with diverse student populations while often teaching science in English. These schools typically follow U.S., British, or international curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB). 
• Colleges and Universities. College or university teaching positions are masters in education jobs. Typically, only science teachers with an advanced degree (typically a master’s or doctorate) can work at community colleges or universities as lecturers, professors, or lab instructors. These roles often include research responsibilities alongside teaching. 
• Museums and Science Centers. Many science teachers transition into roles at museums, planetariums, or science centers where they design educational programs, lead workshops, and engage the public in interactive learning experiences. 
• Educational Nonprofits and Outreach Programs. Nonprofit organizations focused on science education and outreach often hire educators to develop curriculum, train other teachers, or deliver programs to underserved communities. 
• Online Schools and Virtual Learning Platforms. With the growth of online education programs, qualified science teachers can now teach remotely through virtual academies or tutoring platforms. This offers flexibility and the chance to work with students from different regions or backgrounds. 
• Government and Research Institutions. Some science teachers work in government-funded programs or research institutions where they contribute to science education policy, curriculum development, or public education campaigns.

You can also choose to work in special education and teach kids with special needs. Find out more about the roles of special education teachers to see if this is the right work setting for you.

How much do science teachers make?

Science teacher salaries can vary widely based on factors like location, education level, years of experience, and the type of institution they work for. However, science teachers are often in high demand—especially those specializing in subjects like physics and chemistry—which can lead to competitive pay and additional incentives in some districts.

Average Salary by Education Level

• Elementary School Science Teachers typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 per year.
• Middle School Science Teachers can expect to make around $55,000 to $70,000, depending on experience and region.
• High School Science Teachers, particularly those teaching advanced courses like AP Chemistry or Physics, may earn $60,000 to $75,000 or more.

According to ZipRecruiter, science teachers, in general, make an average of $57,413 per year, or approximately $28 per hour.

Salary.com, meanwhile, says that the salary for high school science teachers ranges from $46,000 to $79,000.

Salary by Work Setting

• Public Schools generally offer stable salaries with benefits such as health insurance, pensions, and paid holidays.
• Private Schools may offer slightly lower salaries on average, but can include perks like smaller class sizes or housing stipends.
• Online and Charter Schools offer a wide range, with some paying comparable to public schools, while others may vary based on funding and location.
• Colleges or Universities: Instructors at the community college level might earn between $50,000 and $80,000, while full-time professors with advanced degrees can earn significantly more.

Geographic Differences

Location plays a big role in salary. States like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to offer higher wages due to cost of living and demand for qualified science teachers. Rural or underfunded districts may offer lower salaries but might also provide hiring bonuses or loan forgiveness incentives.

Additional Compensation

Science teachers may also receive:

• Stipends for teaching advanced or specialized subjects
• Bonuses for extracurricular duties, such as coaching or leading science clubs
• Summer school pay or opportunities for curriculum development during breaks

What is the job outlook for science teachers?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of elementary school teachers, including elementary science teachers, is projected to decline 1% from 2023 to 2033. However, despite this decline, 106,500 openings for the job are projected each year over this 10-year period.

The overall employment of middle school teachers is also projected to decline 1% from 2023 to 2033. But 41,400 job openings are still projected each year over the decade. The same decline is projected for the employment of high school teachers in general. However, 64,000 openings for the job are projected each year. 

Things are different for postsecondary teachers, though, as their overall employment is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033. This is faster than the 4% growth for all occupations. This rise in employment is reflected in the 118,900 job openings for postsecondary teachers projected each year over the decade.

The table below is a summary of the job outlook for teachers in the next 10 years or until 2033, according to the BLS.

Should Science Teachers Invest in Advanced Degrees for Professional Growth?

Advanced degrees can open doors to leadership roles, curriculum development, and research opportunities that are not typically accessible through standard certification. They offer a structured pathway to deepen subject expertise and enhance pedagogical strategies, thereby enabling educators to contribute to innovative teaching practices and policy development. Moreover, pursuing advanced education—such as online EdD programs—can provide access to a network of professionals and industry experts, further supporting long-term career success while maintaining flexibility in balancing professional and personal commitments.

How can professional networking and mentorship enhance a science teacher's career growth?

Professional networking and mentorship offer strategic advantages that extend beyond traditional classroom instruction. Meaningful interactions with peers, mentors, and industry experts foster the exchange of teaching strategies, innovative curricular approaches, and insights into emerging scientific trends. Active participation in educational conferences, local workshops, and online communities enables science teachers to stay abreast of pedagogical advancements and technology integration. Furthermore, connecting with mentors can provide personalized guidance on balancing classroom demands with professional growth initiatives, such as pursuing affordable online master's in education, which can open doors to leadership roles and specialized career tracks.

How Can Continuous Professional Development Enhance a Science Teacher’s Impact?

Continuous professional development enables science teachers to stay at the forefront of evolving pedagogical strategies and emerging scientific discoveries. By engaging in targeted workshops, online seminars, and advanced coursework, educators can refine classroom management, integrate the latest technological tools, and apply innovative teaching methodologies. Pursuing specialized credentials, such as an affordable doctor of education online, can further solidify expertise and open avenues for leadership and curriculum development. This commitment to ongoing learning not only boosts instructional quality but also reinforces a teacher’s credibility and adaptability in today’s dynamic educational landscape.

What career advancement opportunities are available to science teachers?

Science teaching offers a wide range of opportunities for career growth, both within the classroom and beyond. With experience, additional education, and a willingness to take on new challenges, science teachers can advance into roles that offer greater responsibility, leadership, and impact. Here are some common career advancement paths:

• Lead or Senior Teacher. Experienced science teachers can become lead teachers or department heads, where they mentor new educators, guide curriculum decisions, and serve as a liaison between teachers and school administration.
• Curriculum Specialist or Instructional Coordinator. These professionals design and evaluate science curricula, train teachers, and help schools adopt effective teaching strategies. This role typically requires a master’s degree and experience in curriculum development.
• School Administration. With additional credentials in educational leadership, science teachers can move into roles such as assistant principal, principal, or district science coordinator. These positions involve overseeing staff, managing budgets, and shaping school policies. Find out more about school principal salary to help you get motivated to gun for a leadership role.
• Postsecondary Teaching. Teachers who pursue advanced degrees—like a master’s or doctorate—can teach at the college or university level. These roles may involve research, writing, and mentoring future educators or scientists.
• Educational Consultant. Some science teachers become independent or contracted consultants, advising schools, districts, or educational companies on science instruction, technology integration, or curriculum reform. 
• Professional Development Trainer. Experienced teachers may lead workshops, webinars, or teacher training programs focused on best practices in science education, lab safety, or STEM integration.
• Roles in Education Policy. Educators with an interest in shaping the larger education system can move into roles in government agencies or nonprofit organizations, where they work on policy development, science standards, and educational reform.
• Author or Content Creator. Science teachers can also grow into careers in publishing, writing science textbooks, designing online courses, or creating educational content for websites and media platforms.

What are the perks and drawbacks of becoming a science teacher?

Becoming a science teacher can be a highly rewarding career, offering both personal fulfillment and professional growth. However, like any job, it comes with its own set of challenges. Understanding the perks and drawbacks can help you make a more informed decision about pursuing this path.

Perks of Becoming a Science Teacher

• Making a Lasting Impact. Science teachers have the opportunity to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of discovery in their students—skills that can last a lifetime and even shape future careers in STEM fields.
• Job Stability. There is a steady demand for qualified science teachers, especially in subjects like chemistry and physics. Teaching often provides job security, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
• Opportunities for Creativity and Innovation. Teaching science allows for hands-on learning, experiments, and the integration of technology. Educators can get creative with lesson plans, labs, and real-world applications to make learning exciting and meaningful.
• Time Off and Work-Life Balance. Most science teachers work a traditional school calendar, which includes weekends off, holiday breaks, and summer vacation—giving more personal and family time compared to many other professions.
• Professional Growth. There are many pathways to grow as a science educator—through certifications, advanced degrees, leadership roles, and opportunities to present at conferences or develop curriculum.

Drawbacks of Becoming a Science Teacher

• Heavy Workload. Beyond classroom instruction, science teachers often spend extra hours preparing lessons, grading, managing lab setups, and attending meetings or training sessions.
• Limited Resources. Some schools may have limited lab equipment, outdated materials, or budget constraints, which can make it harder to deliver high-quality, hands-on science education.
• Classroom Management Challenges. Managing student behavior and maintaining engagement can be difficult, especially in large or diverse classrooms. Teachers must balance discipline with motivation and support.
• Salary Limitations. While science teachers earn a stable income, their salaries may not always reflect the level of expertise or effort required—especially when compared to careers in private industry for science graduates.
• High Accountability and Standardized Testing. Science teachers may face pressure to meet performance benchmarks and prepare students for standardized tests, which can limit flexibility in teaching style or content.

What are the alternative careers for science teachers?

While many science teachers find long-term fulfillment in the classroom, others may choose to explore new directions over time. Fortunately, the skills gained from teaching—such as communication, subject expertise, curriculum planning, and classroom management—translate well into a variety of alternative careers or options beyond their careers in education. 

• Curriculum Developer or Instructional Designer. Former science teachers can work for educational publishers or school districts to create textbooks, lesson plans, lab activities, and digital learning resources. Their classroom experience makes them well-equipped to design content that is practical and engaging for students.
• Educational Consultant. Consultants work with schools, government agencies, or private companies to improve teaching strategies, develop science programs, or train educators. This role often involves travel, workshops, and advising on educational best practices.
• Science Writer or Content Creator. With strong communication skills and science knowledge, teachers can transition into writing for educational websites, textbooks, science blogs, or media companies. Some also create video content, tutorials, or educational YouTube channels.
• Museum or Science Center Educator. Teachers with a passion for hands-on learning may thrive in informal education settings like museums, planetariums, or science centers, where they lead tours, develop exhibits, and host public science programs.
• Corporate or Technical Trainer. Companies in the tech, pharmaceutical, or environmental sectors often hire educators to train employees or clients. Former science teachers can use their ability to explain complex topics clearly in this professional context.
• Academic Advisor or Career Counselor. With additional certification or training, science teachers can shift into advisory roles in schools or colleges, helping students choose courses, plan careers, or prepare for STEM-related pathways.
• Higher Education Roles. Teachers with advanced degrees may find opportunities teaching at community colleges or universities as adjunct faculty or lab instructors.
• Research Assistant or Lab Technician. Some science teachers move into research settings, working in academic, governmental, or private labs to support studies and experiments, especially if they have a strong background in a particular field of science.
• STEM Program Coordinator or Nonprofit Educator. Nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education often need passionate educators to lead community programs, write grants, and organize outreach efforts.

Exploring these alternative paths allows science teachers to continue using their expertise and passion for science—just in new and potentially exciting ways outside the traditional classroom setting.

Here’s What Science Teachers Have to Say About Their Career

• Becoming a science teacher has given me the chance to share my passion for biology while enjoying a stable and rewarding career. The demand for qualified teachers in STEM subjects has opened doors for growth and leadership in my district. Every day, I get to see my students' curiosity come alive—that’s the best part of the job. Jodi
• I transitioned from working in a lab to teaching high school chemistry, and I’ve never looked back. The salary is competitive, especially with the benefits and time off, and I feel valued in my role. Inspiring the next generation of scientists is more fulfilling than I ever imagined. Darnell
• As a physics teacher in a rural school, I was surprised by the support and resources offered to help me succeed. There’s a real demand for science educators, and I’ve been able to grow quickly in my career, even mentoring new teachers. It’s more than a job—it’s a calling. Priya

Key Findings

• Elementary school teachers earn an average of $70,740 per year, middle school teachers earn an average of $71,460 per year, and secondary school teachers earn an average of $73,800 per year. 
• The employment of elementary, middle school, and high school teachers is expected to decline 1% from 2023 to 2033. Postsecondary teachers, meanwhile, can expect an employment growth of 8%.
• States like Texas, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada are seeing higher demand for science educators due to population growth and education initiatives.
• In fiscal year 2023, the White House allocated approximately $4.04 billion for STEM education across 16 federal agencies. This investment underscores the national priority placed on STEM education to cultivate a skilled workforce. 
• As of 2025, 41 states and the District of Columbia have reported shortages in at least one subject area or grade level, with science being among the most affected subjects. 
• Science teachers with advanced degrees often move into postsecondary education roles. 

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Science Teacher

Can I become a science teacher without a science degree?

Yes, it’s possible in some cases, especially if you have a degree in education or another field and are willing to complete additional coursework in science. Many states offer alternative certification programs that allow career changers to teach while completing necessary requirements. However, having a strong background in science is highly recommended for both teaching effectiveness and meeting licensure standards.

Are there scholarships or financial aid options for future science teachers?

Many organizations and governments offer scholarships, grants, or loan forgiveness programs to encourage more teachers to enter the science field. Programs like TEACH Grants or state-specific incentives can help offset the cost of education. These opportunities are especially common in areas experiencing teacher shortages or in STEM-related subjects.

How long does it take to become a science teacher?

The timeline depends on your educational background. For someone starting from scratch with a bachelor’s degree, it typically takes about four years. If you already have a degree in another field, you may be able to complete an alternative certification program in one to two years.

Can I teach science part-time or as a substitute teacher?

Yes, many school districts hire part-time or substitute science teachers, especially for short-term needs or specialty subjects. You’ll likely still need a teaching license or to meet district-specific requirements. Part-time positions can be a great way to gain classroom experience or ease into a full-time role.

References:

• National Conference of State Legislatures. (2024, November 14). Teacher Shortage Areas by State. NCSL. 
• Salary.com. (2025, April 1). High School Science Teacher Salary in the United States. salary.com. 
• Teachers of Tomorrow. (2024, April 8). Teacher Shortages in the U.S: Challenges, Solutions & Initiatives in 2025. teachersoftomorrow.org. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational  Employment and Wages: 25-2021 Elementary School Teachers. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational  Employment and Wages: 25-2022 Middle School Teachers. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational  Employment and Wages: 25-2031 Secondary School Teachers. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: High School Teachers. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers. BLS.  
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Middle School Teachers. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Postsecondary Teachers. BLS. 
• Weld, J. (2024, April 29). K-12 STEM Education For the Future Workforce: A Wish List for the Next Five Year Plan. Federation of American Scientists.
• Zippia. (2025, January 8). Science Teacher Education Requirements. Zippia.com.
• ZipRecruiter. (2025, April 3). Science Teacher Salary. ziprecruiter.com.