North Dakota · Career guide

How to become a Science Teacher in North Dakota

Science teachers cover biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and (increasingly) integrated NGSS-aligned curricula. Like math, secondary science is on most state shortage lists — physics and chemistry endorsements especially. Lab management, safety certification, and inquiry-based instruction are core craft skills the role demands.

No science teaching positions are open in North Dakota right now — set up an alert and we'll notify you when new postings are scraped.

Certification path in North Dakota

  1. Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Most candidates complete a teacher-preparation program either as part of their undergraduate studies or as a post-baccalaureate add-on.
  2. Pass the required exams. North Dakota typically requires:
    • Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores) — Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
    • Praxis Subject Assessments — Content knowledge for your licensure area

    Science endorsements are often broken out (biology, chemistry, physics, integrated science). Each may require its own content exam.

  3. Apply for your initial license through North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) →
  4. Job-search in North Dakota. We'll track science teaching openings as districts post them; set up an alert to be notified immediately when new positions go live.

Alternative pathways in North Dakota

If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, North Dakota offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:

  • Alternative Authorization: For candidates with content degrees employed by a district while completing pedagogy requirements
  • Career and Technical Education endorsements for industry professionals
  • Emergency Authorization for critical shortage areas

North Dakota salary context

Average teacher salary in North Dakota: $57,826/year (rank #32 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $38,000/year.

Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full North Dakota salary guide for the breakdown.

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