STEM Education, M.S.

This master of science program in STEM Education develops and enhances knowledge of subject matter and educational theory, research and practice in one of four areas of STEM education (science education, mathematics education, educational technology, elementary science education). The program includes graduate coursework in STEM content, education and research. Education coursework will complement any previous educational experience.

The program can be taken on either a full- or part-time basis. Graduate courses in education are offered in the evening to allow teachers and other working professionals to complete degree requirements.

Admission Requirements 

The applicant should hold a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) or a related area of K-16 education, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with degrees in other fields may be accepted but may be required to take courses in preparation for graduate study in STEM education.

Applicants are required to submit the materials listed above, including a statement of objectives that describes their background and reasons for graduate study in STEM education and in the area in which they wish to specialize. 

General admission requirements and the application process are presented under General Academic Information (all students)  and Graduate Academic Information .

Degree Requirements 

The Master of Science in STEM Education is conferred on students who have successfully completed 30 credit hours consisting of core courses, a thesis or nonthesis option, and courses in a specialization. The thesis option concludes with an oral thesis presentation/defense. The nonthesis option concludes with an oral final program examination. Up to 12 credit hours of approved graduate transfer credit may be applied.

lt is the responsibility of the student to follow all master’s degree policies governed by the graduate programs office. It is also the responsibility of the student to organize their committee and to schedule the defense or examination in consultation with their academic advisor. 

Curriculum 

Before completing nine credit hours of graduate study, each student must establish an appropriate program of study with their academic advisor, subject to final approval by the department head. With department and graduate programs office approval, up to six credit hours of upper-level undergraduate courses can be applied to the program.