Science Education, Non-Teaching Concentration, M.Ed.

MEd—Science Education

Graduate Program Chair

Lisa Grimm, PhD

Graduate Committee

Program Objectives

The graduate program in science education offers two tracks for students who want to expand their study of biology, chemistry, earth science and environmental science. Track A enhances teaching methods, curricula, research and content in science education. Within this track students can pursue professional licensure in general science. Track B prepares students with ethical perspectives, experimental methods, research experience and science content necessary for careers educating the public about scientific issues.

Program Description

The science teaching track (Track A) is flexible enough to accommodate students interested in elementary, middle school, secondary or non-traditional science education. Students work closely with an advisor to select the appropriate balance of content and teaching courses to meet their objectives. Students pursuing professional licensure in general science must complete a science teaching internship and 18 credits of coursework in science content chosen from at least two of the sciences including biology, earth science and appropriate courses in physics and chemistry offered through the science education program.

The non-teaching track prepares students for careers ranging from integrated scientific research to environmental advocacy, by providing a flexible curriculum of content courses while emphasizing how research is conducted and disseminated and the impact of contemporary issues in science.

Admissions Standards and Criteria

To apply for enrollment in the Master of Education in Science Education Program, the student must submit documents as outlined in the graduate admission section as well as:

• An official transcript of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a major or minor in biology, earth science, physics, chemistry or related field
• The official results of the GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
• Documentation of initial teaching license (for students pursuing professional licensure)
• Applicants to the MAT in Science Education must complete an essay of no more than one page in response to one of the following statements or questions:
  
  1. Tell us about a positive situation in which you helped a person and made a significant difference in that person’s life.
  2. What are the most important factors in establishing a long-term working relationship with students, friends, etc.?
  3. Tell us about a significant event that involved you in a teaching or helping role.
     
     • Describe the situation as it occurred at the time.
     • What did you do in that particular situation?
     • How did you feel about the situation at the time you were experiencing it?
     • How do you feel about the situation now?
     • What would you change, if anything?

Required Courses

• SCED 8001 - Independent Study 1-6 cr.
• SCED 9003 - Science, Ethics, and Technology 3 cr.
• SCED 9004 - Research in Science 3 cr.

Electives

• SCED 8002 - Internship 1-6 cr.
• Workshops
• Science Content Courses
• Approved Related Courses
• Approved Transfer Courses
• Thesis

Total for Degree 36 cr.