If you want to become a science educator or enhance your knowledge in the branch of natural sciences, a masters in science education could be a beneficial program.
The program explores several sub-disciplines in science, including physics, chemistry, biology, Earth science, and environmental science. Courses in professional education are incorporated into the curriculum to prepare prospective educators and science professionals for a career in the classroom or other educational settings.
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You can explore scientific concepts and topics more in-depth and gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making skills.
Masters in Science Education Programs Online
Science education is an important discipline that provides you with essential knowledge about the Earth and its living organisms and helps you further develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
A master’s degree in science education can be a strategic program for aspiring educators or current teachers who want to add an endorsement in science. The program combines professional education coursework specific to the science classroom and other science educational settings with key topics in the natural sciences.
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You may find value in the degree if you want to become an educator in a specific branch of science, such as biology, physics, or chemistry. Some topics explored in the program include:
- The study of living organisms and Earth systems
- The study of chemical concepts and processes
- Curriculum design and development specific to science education
- Fundamental science concepts
- Scientific processes and the analysis of scientific data
One of the benefits of earning your masters in science education online is the flexibility and convenience of virtual learning. It can be difficult to manage in-person courses if you have responsibilities that may cause schedule conflicts.
With an online program, you may have the option of taking asynchronous or synchronous courses and learn at your own pace while adhering to assignment deadlines. Professionals with a master’s in science education can be found in many different science and education positions.
The degree can help prepare you for a teaching career at the elementary or secondary level. Postsecondary teacher positions may be attainable at community colleges.
Other potential career paths outside of the classroom include:
- Science instructional designer
- Science curriculum developer
- Museum educator
- Park interpreter
- Park ranger
These professionals may design and develop science curriculum, instructional plans, and educational resources. Park interpreters and rangers may create educational resources about the park they work in, including its history and native plants and wildlife. They’re also usually responsible for leading guided educational tours and programs.
Science Education Careers and Salaries
A science education masters degree is designed to prepare students for educator roles in the fields of science and education.
Many professionals apply this degree to the science classroom at the elementary or secondary level, but it can also be useful for several other career paths.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are the annual median salaries of potential science education careers.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| K-12 Education Administrators | $98,420 |
| Postsecondary Teachers | $79,640 |
| Instructional Coordinators | $63,740 |
| High School Teachers | $61,820 |
| Special Education Teachers | $61,820 |
| Elementary School Teachers | $61,400 |
| Middle School Teachers | $61,320 |
| Museum Curators | $60,110 |
| Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers | $59,720 |
| Museum Technicians and Conservators | $47,630 |
Most states require teachers to obtain licensure or certification to teach in the classroom, especially in public schools. Some programs may require applicants to have a valid teaching license or eligibility to receive licensure to be admitted into the program, but others may not require it.
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Museum curators and conservators, instructional coordinators, and community college teachers typically hold a master’s degree.
Master of Science Education Curriculum & Courses
These are some courses that may be included in the curriculum of a masters in science education online that can teach you fundamental concepts within all areas of the natural sciences:
- Concepts in Science: This is an introductory course that teaches you about the disciplines of science to provide a basic understanding of scientific principles.
- Teaching and Learning in Secondary Science: You’ll learn about current issues and methods used in science education, including how to design and deliver science instructional plans and educational resources.
- Introduction to Biology: This course introduces you to the fundamental concepts of biology, including evolution and the biological processes of living organisms.
- Chemistry and Biochemistry: Educators interested in teaching chemistry may take this course to gain an understanding of chemical concepts, such as atomic and molecular structures.
- Science Lab Safety and Risk Management: Teachers learn about lab safety equipment and how to implement safe laboratory practices and procedures in the classroom to prevent and respond to lab accidents.
- Earth Systems Science: Educators learn how to deliver instruction relating to Earth science topics, such as environmental processes of the Earth and its atmosphere.
- Weather and Climate: You’ll learn about the Earth’s weather processes and climate and how different patterns are affected by Earth systems.
- Historical Geology: In this course, you’ll learn about the Earth, how living organisms evolved, and the interrelationships of geology and life.
- Technology and the Science Classroom: This class explores educational technologies useful to the science classroom and other educational settings to promote student learning.
- Ecology and Environmental Science: You’ll learn about the relationships between living organisms and the environment by studying ecological concepts and environmental factors.
Some programs offer degree specializations, which can be beneficial if you plan on teaching a specific science discipline, such as biology or environmental science.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Science Education Program
Online masters programs in science education can widely vary between institutions because the programs offered may include different focuses and curriculum.
These are some questions you may ask yourself to help you determine the right science education masters program for you:
- What is your desired career path upon earning your degree?
- Does the program offer coursework that supports your interests and goals?
- What type of elective courses are offered?
- What type of online learning environment does the institution and program offer?
Some science education masters programs focus heavily on elementary and secondary teaching and learning. Other programs may incorporate coursework useful for informal education settings, such as in museums or parks and recreation. Some programs offer a wider range of elective coursework, which can help you focus on certain sub-disciplines of life and physical sciences that you’re interested in.
Science education master’s programs may be fully online and include synchronous or asynchronous courses. Some programs have a hybrid learning environment and include both online and in-person laboratory courses.
Admissions Requirements
Having a strong background in science and education courses is recommended prior to applying for a master’s in science education.
These are some general admissions requirements you can expect from most schools:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Teaching license or eligibility to receive a license (only some schools require it)
- GRE scores (only some schools require them)
- Graduate admissions application
Some programs require students to hold a teaching license or be eligible for licensure before applying, while other programs are designed to help students fulfill licensure requirements.
Accreditation
The accreditation status of a college or university can be important for establishing credibility in your education. Regional accreditation is the most widely recognized type of accreditation.
If you want to become a licensed teacher, many states consider the accreditation status of an institution when determining licensure eligibility. It can also affect employment opportunities and admissions eligibility for doctoral programs like an on campus or online PhD in Science Education program.
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The US Department of Education is responsible for approving accrediting organizations. Accreditors are authorized by the government to conduct rigorous reviews of colleges and universities and educational programs.
Science Education Licensure and Certifications
A teaching license or certification is usually required to practice as a teacher in most states. Some schools, such as private institutions, may not require teachers to be licensed as long as they meet licensure eligibility requirements. Completing an on campus or online bachelor’s degree in education or a specific content area is typically one of the requirements to obtain state licensure.
Professionals can earn a masters in education to qualify as well. In addition, states often request prospective teachers to complete classroom observation and student teaching hours. Then, you’re required to pass the Praxis Core and Praxis II examinations or similar state standardized tests.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
To help you pay the upfront costs of education, you can look into financial assistance opportunities in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and state and federal aid.
Work-study programs and state and federal aid are forms of financial aid often based on need. To be eligible for these financial aid options, students must demonstrate financial need based on a number of factors. Any student is allowed to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine federal aid eligibility.
Scholarships can be need-based, but there are also several other types of scholarships that aren’t based on financial need. Some scholarships target students with certain majors, interests, or academic or athletic excellence.
Science Education Professional Organizations
Joining a science education professional organization can be beneficial to science educators, students, scientists, and other science professionals. Becoming a member could allow you to connect with other professionals and gain access to professional development opportunities.
These are some examples of professional organizations for educators and other professionals in the science education field:
- Association for Science Teacher Education (ASTE)
- National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA)
- National Science Teaching Association (NSTA)
Many professional organizations offer access to journal publications, in-person and virtual conferences, and other resources.
What Is a Science Education Masters Degree?
A masters degree in science education is beneficial for professionals aspiring to be a science educator or instructional coordinator. It’s also strategic for current teachers who want to add an endorsement in science.
This degree combines professional education curriculum with science courses. The main components of the program include courses relating to the natural sciences, educational technologies, instructional design, and delivery of curriculum.
The curriculum provides a well-rounded educational experience. It explores several sub-disciplines within the natural sciences and dives deeper into how living organisms and the Earth’s processes and systems are connected.
What Can I Do with a Masters in Science Education Degree?
A master’s in science education can be useful for several types of educator roles. Education professionals may seek this degree to add an endorsement in one of the natural science disciplines. You can apply the skills and knowledge you learn in the program to pursue a variety of careers.
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Most graduates go on to become science educators or science curriculum developers. Science educators may hold traditional teaching positions in K-12 classrooms or community colleges. Others may teach or administrate science programs in settings like youth facilities, zoos, museums, and more.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Masters in Science Education?
A 36 credit hour online science education master’s degree with no thesis may be completed in 1 year if you study full-time and year-round, including during summer. A number of universities now offer on-campus and online degree in science education programs. Some programs include a thesis option that involves the presentation of original research, which can add on more time.
If you study part-time, it can also take longer to complete your graduate program. Colleges and universities may have different credit requirements for science education programs. The amount of credit hours required can also affect how long it takes to complete.
What’s the Difference Between an MS vs. MEd in Science Education?
A Master of Science (MS) in Science Education and a Master of Education (MEd) in Science Education are two degree options that include major science and education coursework. Here are some things you can expect from each.
- MS in Science Education: This degree path concentrates on science coursework supplemented by education and teaching courses.
- MEd in Science Education: This degree path typically offers more coursework in education and teacher preparation with a focus on teaching science curriculum.
An MEd may be a better option if you want to take more courses in education, while an MS degree offers more coursework in scientific and technical courses.
Is a Masters Degree in Science Education Worth It?
Yes, a masters degree in science education is worth it for many students. Many places are experiencing teacher shortages, which is leading to an increased demand in educator roles. Teachers of STEM topics are often in greater demand.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education, training, and library occupations are projected to grow 7% over the next ten years, which is steady growth. This graduate degree may lead to a rewarding career if you’re passionate about educating others and have a deep interest in science.
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A master’s degree can also help current educators increase their earning potential or advance into positions in administration or curriculum development.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Science Education Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
American College of Education offers an online Master of Education in Science Education. This program is designed to prepare educators to teach in secondary school or college settings. Potential courses include Systems of Science, Creating Online Collaboration and Communities, and Research Methods. The program offers several start dates throughout the year.
American College of Education is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Clemson University offers a Master of Science for Science Educators. An advanced student track is available for those who are planning to obtain further education or endorsements. The curriculum covers topics like plant biology, human biology, research methods, ecology, and scientific processes. The program is housed online, providing students with around-the-clock access to coursework.
Clemson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Colorado State University offers a Master of Natural Sciences Education with two different paths to choose from: Coursework or Research. Classes meet fully online, and students typically need to devote 9 to 12 hours to their classes each week. On average, the program’s 30 required credits can be completed in 2 years of full-time study.
Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
DePaul University offers a Master of Science in Science Education. K-12 teachers interested in gaining additional expertise in teaching sciences may find an ideal fit in this program. The 12 course program meets online and in the evenings on campus. The required coursework can typically be finished in 2 years when attending full-time.
DePaul University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
East Carolina University offers a Master of Arts in Science Education. Many graduates pursue careers teaching a broad range of science subjects in K-12, university, community college, or professional settings. This curriculum consists of 36 semester-hours of coursework and culminates in a final thesis or research project. On average, the program can be completed in 2.5 years of full-time study.
East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Florida State University offers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Currently licensed educators who plan to pursue teaching roles involving sciences may find an excellent next step in this program. The program can be completed entirely online. Optional concentrations include Science Education, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Early Childhood Education.
Florida State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Lesley University offers a Master of Education in Science Education with Non-Licensure and Professional Licensure tracks. Classes meet 100% online and are typically 8 weeks long. The program requires the completion of 33 credits.
Lesley University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Montana State University offers a Master of Science in Science Education. The curriculum covers concepts like biology, chemistry, computer science, earth science, engineering, microbiology, environmental sciences, and human development. While the program is housed primarily online, hands-on field and lab experiences may be available in summer terms. On average, the program can be completed in 2 to 3 years.
Montana State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
North Carolina State University offers a Master of Education in STEM Education. Available concentrations include Science Education, Engineering and Technology Education, and Mathematics Education. The curriculum consists of 30 credits and usually spans 3 to 4 years of full-time study. The program admits incoming students three times each year in summer and fall terms.
North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Northeastern State University offers a Master of Education in Science Education. This program is designed to help K-12 educators develop advanced knowledge and skills in their field. The program requires the completion of at least 36 credit hours of core and specialty coursework. All classes meet conveniently online.
Northeastern State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Northern Arizona University offers a Master of Arts in Science Teaching. Potential courses include Science Methods, Science Assessments for Instructional Change, and Science Literature Survey. The curriculum utilizes a fully online learning format. This program is designed with working professionals in mind and can typically be completed in 2 years of part-time study.
Northern Arizona University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Nova Southeastern University offers an online MS in Science Education. The program is designed for individuals who have previously completed a bachelor’s degree while maintaining a 2.5 GPA or higher. This curriculum emphasizes the development, delivery, and assessment of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics instruction. The program requires the completion of 36 credits.
Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Oklahoma State University offers an online Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership. Students intending to pursue mathematics and science teaching roles may find an ideal fit in the Mathematics and Science Education emphasis. Incoming students are admitted on a rolling basis. Applications should be submitted at least 6 weeks in advance.
Oklahoma State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Oregon State University offers a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in STEM studies. Endorsements are available in Advanced Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Integrated Science. The program can potentially be completed in 1 year when attended full-time and in 2 years when attended part-time. Classes meet online.
Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Pennsylvania State University offers a Master of Education in Earth Sciences. Graduates commonly pursue careers at K-12 schools, universities, private businesses, and nonprofits. The curriculum consists of 30 credits. All classes meet online and are typically 15 weeks long in spring and fall terms and 12 weeks long in summer terms.
Penn State is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Pennsylvania Western University offers a Master of Education in Advanced Study in Education with a STEM Education concentration. This program is intended for licensed Pennsylvania teachers.
Classes are held asynchronously online to better accommodate the schedules of busy educators. Potential courses include Curriculum Design, Learning Theory, Data Driven Theory and Assessment, and Philosophy of Integrative STEM Education.
Pennsylvania Western University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
South Dakota State University offers a Master of Science in Professional Science. This program aims to equip students with the skills needed to pursue management, leadership, and educational roles within STEM fields. The program requires the completion of 30 credits. It is attended through a blend of convenient online and traditional on-campus courses.
South Dakota State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Students planning to pursue science teaching positions may find an ideal fit in the Science Education emphasis. The program’s 30 required credit hours can potentially be completed in just 12 months when attended full-time. It accepts applications year-round.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
State University of New York – Brockport offers a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Earth Science Education. The curriculum covers topics like language acquisition, special education, diversity in education, and research methods. Classes can be attended through a blend of on-campus and online learning formats. Hands-on field experiences are encouraged by the program.
SUNY- Brockport is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Alabama offers a Master of Arts in Secondary Education. The Science 6-12 Certification is designed to prepare educators for middle and high school-level instruction in the sciences and related subjects. The curriculum consists of 30 credit hours of coursework. All classes can be attended conveniently online.
The University of Alabama is accredited by the Southern Asssociation of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Georgia offers a Master of Education in Science Education. The curriculum is designed to provide certified teachers with a mastery of biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences. Up to 6 qualifying credits may be transferred in toward the program’s 36 required credits. The program can typically be completed in 2 years of full-time study.
The University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Massachusetts – Amherst offers a Master’s in Science Education program. Depending on their professional goals and personal interests, the program can be completed for a Master of Education or an Education Specialist degree. The program is housed entirely online and requires the completion of 30 credits.
The University of Massachusetts – Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Nebraska – Lincoln offers a Master of Applied Science with a specialization in Science for Educators. Many graduates pursue careers as college professors, extension educators, home school instructors, or elementary, middle, or high school teachers. The program requires the completion of 30 credits. All classes can be attended conveniently online.
The University of Nebraska – Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Northern Colorado offers a Master of Arts in Science Education. Individuals planning to work in K-12 settings may find an excellent next step in this program. The program requires the completion of 30 credits and utilizes an online model. Incoming student applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and admitted students can begin any term.
The University of Nothern Colorado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Northern Iowa offers a Master of Arts in Science Education. The curriculum blends theory, application, content, pedagogy, and assessment to prepare educators for endorsement. The program requires the completion of 30 credits and can be completed via the fully online distance learning model.
The University of Northern Iowa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Texas – Arlington offers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. The concentration in Science Education is designed to equip educators with the skills needed to instruct a diverse range of students in sciences. This program is housed 100% online and requires the completion of at least 30 credit hours.
The University of Texas – Arlington is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley offers a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with an Elementary Math and Science Education concentration. Classes meet entirely online and are typically 7 weeks long. The program’s 30 required credit hours can typically be completed in 10 months when attended full-time.
UTRGV is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Walden University offers a Master of Science in Education. Licensed teachers who want to deepen their knowledge in preparation for elementary-level science instruction may find a good fit in the K-8 Science specialization. On average, the program can be completed in 20 months of full-time study. Classes can be attended conveniently online.
Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Wayne State College offers an online Master of Science in Education. The Curriculum and Instructional Leadership in Science Education concentration aims to prepare educators for evidence-based biology, chemistry, earth science, and physics instruction. This curriculum requires the completion of 36 credit hours. Potential classes include Instructional Theory and Practice, Philosophy of Education, and Educational Research.
Wayne State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Western Governors University offers a Master of Art in Teaching with a Secondary Science concentration. This degree is intended to provide students with their initial teaching endorsement and specialized science instruction skills. The program utilizes a fully online learning format. It can typically be completed in 2 years.
WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Getting Your Master in Science Education Online
Science education graduate programs dive deep into the study of science disciplines as well as education. You can study essential topics that help you better understand how each branch of science is connected and how this information can be applied to different educational settings.
An online science education masters program can offer more flexibility if you have other responsibilities that make it difficult to attend in-person classes. Interactive virtual science laboratory sessions, lectures, and group discussions may be included throughout the program to give you a well-rounded educational experience.
If you’re ready to start working toward an online masters in science education, you can begin by researching accredited colleges and universities.
