Online Master’s Programs In Science Education
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Teaching with a Science Education Degree
Science education trains skilled teachers who understand the best methods for instructing science and encouraging students’ curiosity about the world. Focusing on educational theory, teaching strategies, and science content areas, this degree primarily prepares science education graduates to teach in K-12 schools.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that high school science teachers earn an annual median salary of $61,660, with careers projected to grow 4% from 2019-2029. Science education graduates can also pursue other science-related careers such as environmental scientist and specialist, earning an annual median salary of $71,360.
This guide offers an overview of master’s in science education programs, including typical courses, career prospects, licensure requirements, and scholarships.
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Master’s in Science Education Questions
What can I do with a science education degree?
A master’s in science education prepares candidates to teach science at the K-12 level. Graduates may also pursue careers such as instructional coordinator or environmental scientist.
Can you be a teacher with a science degree?
Science education master’s degrees commonly lead to state teacher certification, enabling graduates to teach at K-12 schools. However, students should check with individual programs to determine if they meet local certification standards.
What is the purpose of science education?
Science education draws on the latest educational theories and research. Teachers help shape students’ understanding of science and encourage intellectual curiosity.
Can you get an MA without a BA?
All MA programs require applicants to hold a BA. However, some colleges offer combination BA/MA programs that enable students to earn both degrees with fewer total credits.
Why Get a Degree in Science Education?
A science education master’s degree builds advanced knowledge and skills in pedagogy and science content instruction. Many programs also prepare candidates to obtain teaching certification in their state. Master’s degree-holders typically find employment more easily and may command higher starting salaries in the education field.
Many schools host science education programs online, allowing candidates to earn a degree while maintaining a full-time job. Online programs frequently offer tuition rates lower than their on-campus counterparts. Some public schools offer discounted in-state tuition to online students regardless of their state residency. These programs occur primarily online, though students perform in-person teaching activities locally.
How Much Does a Science Education Degree Cost?
Tuition rates for master’s in science education programs vary widely among schools. Factors including delivery format (online, campus, or hybrid), school type (public or private), and enrollment format (part time, full time, or accelerated) can all affect overall tuition expenses. In general, online programs cost less than on-campus programs. Students can expect to pay $30,000-$40,000 on average for a master’s degree.
Online students may receive tuition discounts, and some public schools offer in-state tuition rates to out-of-state online learners.
Online learning also reduces or eliminates many secondary expenses associated with college. Students rarely relocate for online programs, eliminating moving expenses and a potential increase in living costs. Fewer campus visits also reduce travel and commuting expenses. Online programs help grant students the flexibility to work full time while in school, making it easier to budget for college expenses.
How Much Do Science Education Majors Make?
A science education master’s degree most commonly prepares graduates for careers teaching science in K-12 schools. Teaching careers offer generally competitive salary levels, and master’s degree-holders typically command higher salaries than bachelor’s degree-holders. Teachers who earn their master’s in science education can often enter the field with a higher starting salary compared to teachers with just a bachelor’s degree.
Teacher salary levels vary slightly by grade level. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn an annual median salary of $59,420, while middle school teachers earn a slightly higher annual median salary of $59,660. High school teachers receive the highest annual median salary of $61,660.
Master’s in science education graduates may also enter specialized administrative roles, overseeing science teaching standards and curricula for schools and school districts. These roles typically require a master’s degree at minimum and offer higher salary levels. For example, instructional coordinators earn an annual median salary of $66,290.
Courses in Science Education
A master’s in science education program typically includes two major curriculum components: education courses and content courses. Education courses focus on pedagogical strategies for science education, giving teachers the tools to design curriculum, facilitate student inquiry, and assess learning outcomes. Content courses focus on major scientific fields and concepts, such as physics, chemistry, and biology.
Master’s candidates often demonstrate their learning through a culminating project such as a capstone, thesis, or action research project. These projects typically encompass significant research into an issue in contemporary science education.
This list highlights three common courses in science education programs. Course selections may vary among programs, but this list offers a representative sample of most curriculum models.
The course emphasizes curriculum design theories and methods for science education. Teachers gain the tools to shape student inquiry and education experiences, stressing engagement and active learning. The class also highlights frameworks for establishing explicit learning goals and best practices for assessing learning outcomes.
Science Curriculum Design
Assessment forms a major component of contemporary education practice, and this course focuses on assessment strategies for science classrooms. Teachers explore the common purposes of learning assessment, including summative and formative approaches. The course also highlights various student assessment dimensions, including conceptual understanding, inquiry skills, and peer assessment. Science Learning Assessment
Classroom teachers and other education professionals use research to inform teaching strategies and develop education models. Most programs include at least one introductory course on education research that highlights research techniques, evaluation methods, and research data utilization. Teachers explore both qualitative and quantitative analysis and develop their own education research projects. Research in Science Education
Science Education Licensure
While a master’s in science education helps graduates acquire the necessary skills to teach in K-12 schools, states also require public school teachers to obtain certification before they begin teaching. Many science education programs lead to initial teaching certification, while others serve current teachers who already possess certification.
Licensing and certification requirements vary nationwide, but many states offer subject area certifications for science teachers. Teachers seeking certification should consult their local state department of education to determine exact certification requirements.
Scholarship for Science Education
For most students, a master’s in science education serves as a professional investment, offering a reasonable guarantee of increased earnings after graduation. Regardless, aspiring teachers can take advantage of additional higher education funding beyond student loans, including scholarships. This list highlights three scholarships for master’s in science education students.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
American Chemical Society Hach Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Scholarship | $3,000-$6,000 | The ACS offers this scholarship to chemistry majors enrolled in a master’s in education program with a focus on chemistry or science education. |
AFCEA STEM Teacher Graduate Scholarships | $2,500 | The AFCEA Educational Foundation offers this scholarship to graduate students pursuing STEM-related education programs (including science education programs). Applicants must plan to teach science in a K-12 school. |
Hubertus W.V. Willems Scholarship for Male Students | $3,000 | The Poise Foundation offers this scholarship to male students pursuing science-related programs. Graduate applicants should hold a minimum 3.0 GPA. The scholarship committee gives preference to NAACP members. |
Online Master’s In Science Education Programs
See Our Rankings MethodologyUniversity of Georgia
Athens, GA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Distance learners pursuing the University of Georgia's affordable graduate programs can complete requirements in a convenient online format. The Athens-based institution offers 29 online programs, including 16 online master's programs. At the school, graduate degree-seekers can enroll in a master's in science education program. Working professionals can benefit from the online science education program's flexible enrollment options.
Core classes help learners develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced science education classes. Students prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their science education master's degree if enrolled full time. Prospective applicants should reach out to the department to learn more about admission standards and deadlines.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. Residents of Georgia pay discounted tuition rates averaging $8,878 for graduate studies, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $25,186. Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Of the school's learners, 97% obtain financial aid to fund their studies.
- In-State$9,790
- Out-of-state$28,830
- In-State$8,878
- Out-of-state$25,186
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled38,920
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from North Carolina State University. Busy learners can pursue the public institution's online master's programs, including an online science education degree. The flexible M.Ed. in STEM education program helps science education professionals prepare for leadership roles while maintaining employment.
While completing their master's program, graduate students work with experienced faculty advisors. The M.Ed. program features a rigorous curriculum that meets high academic standards. In addition to science education knowledge, coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Degree-seekers meet with financial aid counselors to discuss their funding options. The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates.
North Carolina State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 97
Total Online Programs: 54
Number of Online Students: 14,890
Graduate Tuition In-State: $9,095
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $26,421
Awards Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$6,535
- Out-of-state$26,654
- In-State$9,095
- Out-of-state$26,421
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled36,304
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Distance learners can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from East Carolina University. The public institution delivers 69 total online programs, and master's students can choose from 41 online options. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's science education M.A.Ed. program. Busy students balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from the online science education program's flexible scheduling and enrollment options.
The master's program features core and advanced science education courses. Experiential learning opportunities help graduate students bolster their resume and gain practical skills. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their science education master's degree if enrolled full time. The program website provides specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
Students at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $4,749 for North Carolina residents and $17,898 for out-of-state students. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can qualify for federal financial aid programs. According to the school, 79% of students receive financial aid.
- In-State$4,452
- Out-of-state$20,729
- In-State$4,749
- Out-of-state$17,898
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled28,651
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Georgia State University offers a variety of top-ranked graduate programs, including an online science education program. In addition to on-campus students, 1,919 students enroll in the public institution's online programs. Working professionals often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.
The M.Ed. in STEM education curriculum emphasizes career skills and field-specific knowledge. Faculty mentors help graduate students customize the program based on their professional goals. The online program emphasizes field-specific skills and knowledge. After completing the science education degree, graduates often land competitive roles in their field. Master's students can take advantage of the institution's career services to prepare to transition from their studies into the workforce.
Learners in the school's master's programs can access career advising and financial aid counseling. The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates. Enrollees may also qualify for scholarships and fellowships.
- In-State$7,158
- Out-of-state$22,389
- In-State$7,164
- Out-of-state$22,662
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled35,041
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
North Greenville University
- Tigerville, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Tigerville, South Carolina, North Greenville University delivers academic programs online and on campus. The private institution's offerings include online master's degrees learners can earn from any location. The school's online programs include a flexible master of education in science education for students planning to pursue careers in science education.
Master's students in the online science education program take core classes in their first year. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers can select elective classes to customize the program to their interests and career goals. Graduate students can receive practical training through experiential learning opportunities and faculty mentorship.
A master's degree can qualify science education professionals for leadership positions and raises. During their master's studies and after graduation, individuals can receive support from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners can research funding options including grants, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans. According to the school, 99% of students receive financial aid.
- In-State$21,120
- Out-of-state$21,120
- In-State$10,800
- Out-of-state$10,800
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled2,426
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
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