M.A.E. in Science Education

This master’s degree option can be completed either fully online or in a hybrid format and involves either a thesis or capstone project. The program is intended for individuals interested in building their expertise in science education as well as their capacity for contributing to the profession. This program is also appropriate for individuals who are interested in adding to their science content background with graduate-level coursework while preparing to teach at the community college level.

For those completing a thesis, you will work closely with a faculty mentor to prepare and present a formal document that demonstrates:

• independent investigation,
• how you have built your expertise in science education,
• your capacity for contributing to the profession, and
• that you can construct a product of publishable quality.

For those completing a capstone project (i.e. project in lieu of thesis), you will work closely with a faculty mentor to complete a project based upon a context of your choosing. Example projects could focus on instructional unit design, teaching practice, student learning, workshop planning, a review of the literature on a topic or a grant proposal (MAE Project-In-Lieu Guidelines for Science Education).

Hear from our current students and alumni about their experiences in the program on our Testimonials page. For more information or to get in touch with our team, visit our Contact Us page.

Who typically enrolls in the MAE in science education program?

1. Practicing teachers who want to strengthen their abilities to teach science in a variety of instructional settings.

2. Experienced teachers who have the eventual goal of earning a doctorate in science education enabling them to work in a teacher education/science education program at an institution of higher education.

3. Individuals who plan to teach at the community college level. Requirements to teach at the community college level vary depending on the individual campus. Typically, individuals must have a minimum of 18 credits in graduate science. Candidates are encouraged to consult the community college where they desire employment for the exact employment requirements. These content area requirements are then be built into the MAE in science education program.