Master of Education in Science Education
Description
This is a graduate program that is designed to sharpen the knowledge and skills of experienced science educators. Intended for precollege teachers (Grades 6-12), community college instructors, and informal educators (e.g., museum educators) or others who work in areas of science education, it meets the requirements for the NC-DPI pay increase for teachers who receive a Master’s degree and has a curriculum that supports science teachers applying for National Board Certification. Please visit the department web site for current admission requirements and curriculum information.
Career prospects
(What can I do with this program of study?)
The program is intended for precollege teachers (Grades 6-12), community college instructors, and informal educators (e.g., museum educators) or others who work in areas of science education. It meets the requirements for the NC-DPI pay increase for teachers who receive a Master’s degree and has a curriculum that supports science teachers applying for National Board Certification.
Curriculum
(What will I learn?)
Course descriptions can be found in the University course catalog
Science Education Core (12 semester hours)
- EMS 521 Advanced Methods in Science Education I (3)
- EMS 522 Advanced Methods in Science Education II (3)
- EMS 573 Tech Tools for Science Teachers (3)
- EMS 575 Foundations of Science Education (3)
Research (3 semester hours)
- EMS 531 Introduction to Research in Science Education (3)
Focus Area (6 semester hours)
Courses may be taken to develop expertise in areas such as College Science Education, Teacher Education (Elementary, Middle or High School) or Informal education. Focus areas include but are not limited to:
- Middle School Education (ECI 550, ECI 551, PSY 582)
- Special Populations (ECI 500, ECI 570, ELP 515)
- Thesis Research (EMS 695)
- Instructional Technology (EMS 573, EMS 578)
- Mentoring Preservice/Inservice Teachers (ECI 641, ECI 651)
- Science (additional 6 hours in a specific content concentration)
Science Courses (15 semester hours) 400-level or above
Admissions requirements
(Is this the program for me? How do I apply?)
Required for admission:
- Bachelor's degree in science or science education
- Miller Analogies Test or GRE
Recommended for admission:
- 3.0 GPA
- 2 years or more teaching experience, or equivalent experience in informal science education settings
- Ideally have already completed 24 hrs of science, engineering, or science-related coursework at the undergraduate level
Plan of study
(How much time will it take?)
The program can be accomplished either part-time or full-time. Part-time students can reasonably complete the program in 3-4 years, depending on the load they are willing to take during the academic year and summers. Full-time students can complete the program in two years. The Science Education courses are in a two-year cycle, and a new cycle begins in the Fall Semester.
Registration information
(When can I start?)
Click "Apply & Enroll" to apply for admission or register to take courses. To earn the degree, students must be admitted through NC State's Graduate School. Students may begin to take courses before being admitted by registering as a non-degree student (NDS).
Estimated Tuition and Fees
(How much will it cost?)
Tuition Level: Graduate (View more information about tuition)
Fees: Graduate ASG, Graduate Ed/Tech
Resident: $12,816.00
Non-resident: $24,948.00



