Deepening Her Roots in Science Education: Meet Christy Mathes, Biology for Educators ’25

In Gillette, Wyoming, Christy Mathes spends her days helping students unlock the mysteries of life science. Between teaching at Campbell County High School, supporting her district as a secondary science curriculum facilitator, and guiding undergraduates as an adjunct biology professor at Gillette College, her professional life is full.

Despite having a packed calendar, Mathes never stopped looking for ways to challenge herself and strengthen her connection to biology. Determined to expand her expertise and to grow both as an educator and a scientist, the search for a program that respected both identities while fitting into her already demanding schedule seemed nearly impossible. 

After an extensive search for graduate-level biology programs that were designed with educators in mind, Mathes found what felt like a perfect fit. She discovered the online Biology for Educators graduate certificate program at NC State and applied to join the program in 2022.

“I enrolled in NC State’s Biology for Educators Program because it offered something truly unique: an affordable, flexible and high-quality pathway to deepen my content knowledge while balancing a full-time teaching career,” Mathes shared.

What set the program apart was the combination of rigorous coursework, a wide variety of course options, and exceptional support from faculty and advisors. “That kind of support and flexibility isn’t easy to find in graduate programs, and it made NC State the clear choice for me,” she noted.

Experience in the Biology for Educators Program

The NC State Graduate Certificate in Biology for Educators, offered entirely online through Post-Baccalaureate Studies, is designed specifically for science teachers and other science professionals who want to stay current with advances in biology while remaining active in the classroom.

The curriculum focuses on applying knowledge using real-world contexts, emphasizing both rigorous subject mastery and teaching skills to effectively convey scientific concepts in ways that enhance student learning and engagement. The focus on student outcomes and the high level of faculty support make the program especially appealing to full-time educators like Mathes.

The coursework is designed to fit around students’ teaching schedules, but, like in many other graduate programs, balancing full-time work, family responsibilities and coursework can be challenging.

Mathes decided to take a proactive approach by planning her schedule to accommodate her online studies. “I carved out Sundays as my dedicated work time each week, which allowed me to stay focused and consistent without letting other obligations interfere,” Mathes explained. 

Mathes also appreciated the instructors’ willingness to tailor coursework to fit the realities of the remote, asynchronous nature of the program. “That flexibility was absolutely essential to my success,” she said.

“The structure of the program allowed me to maintain a full-time teaching schedule while still engaging deeply with the material, and the support from instructors and advisors made the entire journey feel both manageable and empowering,” explained Mathes.

Faculty Support, Mentorship and Impact

Mathes appreciated that the faculty connected with the students personally and were generally responsive to their needs. “The faculty are not only experts in their fields but are also incredibly student-centered,” she said. 

One faculty member, in particular, made a lasting impact on her journey: Elizabeth Thompson. Thompson served as both her advisor and instructor for two courses.

“Dr. Thompson was instrumental in my success throughout the Biology for Educators program,” Mathes shared. “She brought an incredible balance of expertise, empathy and encouragement to everything she did.”

Professor Thompson’s background in toxicology provided Mathes with tools she now uses regularly in her own classroom, but what truly set her apart was how she related to her students.

“She was the kind of professor who made you feel seen and supported,” Mathes reflected. “Whenever challenges came up, whether logistical or academic, she was quick to help me problem-solve and always did so with kindness and respect. Her belief in me, especially during the most overwhelming moments, gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward. I truly would not have thrived in this program without her.”

A Program Designed for Teachers and Scientists

For Mathes, the Biology for Educators program transformed the way she thought about her role in the classroom and beyond. 

“I’ve gained not only new content knowledge but also a deeper understanding of how to translate complex biology concepts into meaningful learning experiences for my students,” she explained. 

“The coursework challenged me to grow as both a teacher and a biologist, opening doors to new opportunities and expanding what I thought was possible in my teaching practice.”

That growth has already translated into tangible opportunities. Mathes was offered an adjunct teaching position at Gillette College, a role she wouldn’t have felt prepared for without the program. She also played a key role in moving her school toward making AP Biology a concurrent enrollment course, a change that would offer students college credit and a more rigorous academic experience.

“Beyond credentials, though, this program has helped me find my voice as a leader,” she reflected. “I’ve been able to step into professional development and curriculum leadership roles within my district, and I feel like I’m contributing at a broader level now.”

Advice and Future Plans

As Mathes looks to the future, she plans to continue working in education at both the secondary and community college levels. “I love being in the classroom, and I’m passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences for students across different settings,” she shared.

She also has long-term goals that include pursuing a Ph.D., although she’s still exploring her area of focus. “I know I’ll get there,” she said. “But for now, I’m staying grounded in the work I love while keeping the door open for future academic growth.”

For those considering continuing their education, Mathes offered this advice: “If you’re thinking about continuing your education … do it! It’s not always easy, but it’s absolutely worth it.”

She emphasized that an online program like the one at NC State makes professional growth possible without stepping away from your career or work responsibilities. “The flexibility of an asynchronous online program was what allowed me to succeed,” she explained. “And just because it’s online doesn’t mean you’re alone. The support I received from instructors and advisors was personal and responsive, and the coursework was engaging and challenging in the best way.”

“This program hasn’t just supported my current work; it’s expanded what I’m capable of doing in the future,” Mathes said.

Reflecting on her overall experience in the Biology for Educators program, Mathes felt the impact extended far beyond simply deepening her subject matter expertise. “This program didn’t just expand my knowledge — it reignited my passion for biology and reminded me why I love being an educator,” she said. “Every course pushed me to grow, every assignment felt purposeful, and every interaction with faculty reminded me that I was supported, seen, and valued.” 

“What makes this program stand out isn’t just the quality of instruction; it’s the heart behind it.”

She continued, “I came into this program hoping to sharpen my skills. I’m leaving it more confident, more capable, and more inspired than ever. I’m proud to be part of the Wolfpack family, and I’ll carry this experience with me into every classroom I teach, every curriculum I help design, and every student I have the privilege of guiding.”

Interested in learning more about the online Graduate Certificate in Biology for Educators? Visit the NC State Online programs page to explore this and other flexible, distance education options for working professionals.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​