New Jersey · Career guide
How to become a Science Teacher in New Jersey
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.
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Certification path in New Jersey
- 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.
- Pass the required exams. New Jersey typically requires:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/GRE scores) — Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject Assessments — Content knowledge for your certification area
- edTPA — Performance assessment required for Standard Certificate
Science endorsements are often broken out (biology, chemistry, physics, integrated science). Each may require its own content exam.
- Apply for your initial license through New Jersey Department of Education. The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit New Jersey Department of Education →
- Job-search in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey
If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, New Jersey offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:
- Certificate of Eligibility (CE): For those with subject area bachelor's degrees not from a teaching program
- Provisional Teacher of the Arts for visual and performing arts professionals
- Teach For America (active in Newark and Camden)
- Career and Technical Education endorsements
New Jersey salary context
Average teacher salary in New Jersey: $76,000/year (rank #7 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $47,500/year.
Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full New Jersey salary guide for the breakdown.