Science education MA
To ensure the success of all of our C&I MA and PhD current students, enhance the student experience for future graduate students, and based upon changing federal education guidelines and available funding, the Department of Curriculum & Instruction is pausing admissions on this program for one calendar year. No students will be admitted to start this program in the Fall 2027-Spring 2028 academic year. Admissions processes will resume in Fall 2027 to admit students for Fall 2028. All updated admissions information will be available by September 2027.
The pause of admissions only applies to the MA and/or PhD program on this page. This does not affect the admissions and enrollment procedures for other programs such as the Curriculum & Instruction's MEd programs or certificates. Those programs will continue to admit and enroll students without pause.
The MA in science education is a research degree designed for experienced educators who wish to explore and improve science teaching and learning. The field of science education is broad and includes STEM and environmental education in PreK-12 classrooms, higher education, and adult education.
Focus areas of research include:
- K-12 teacher preparation and professional development
- Induction and mentoring beginning science teachers
- Design and implementation of curricula
- Environmental education
- Integrated STEM teaching and learning
- Social justice
About the program
Curriculum
To view the core curriculum and electives visit the the MA in science education in the course catalog. Look under subplan “Science Education.”
Two curriculum options are available for MA students. You can choose either a thesis (Plan A) or final paper (Plan B) to complete your degree.
As part of your degree program, you can choose to write a dissertation.
Examples of past MA student dissertations:
- Educational Ideology as Decisive Factor in Limiting Out-of-Discipline Middle School Science Teaching
- Why Can’t Teachers Work in the Cloud: An Examination of Science Teacher Online Professional Development
- Enhancing High School Students’ Environmental Awareness and Activism by Using the Theoretical Frameworks of
- Constructionism and Social Constructivism
- Thinking Systemically: Collaborative Explorations of the Water Cycle
- Comparing Inquiry Science Instruction Within Two High School Biology Classrooms
Research opportunities
You can engage in research that advances the field of science education and ties into your specific area of interest. Faculty work closely with you to achieve your research and educational goals and improve educational opportunities for students. Learn more about the student research experience in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
Career outlook
Graduates of the MA in science education have assumed positions as university faculty, instructional leaders in the public schools, curriculum development specialists, and assessment specialists. Many go on to earn their PhD in STEM education.
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