Science is everywhere, and a strong science literacy helps students to better understand our world and how it works. Studying science also develops essential skills for learning and inquiry, including observation, critical thinking, and research. And as science becomes even more important for success in today’s technical society, and as a science educator, you’ll teach students the skills and knowledge they need to thrive.
How You Can Benefit from a Master’s Degree in Science Education
Build on your experience in education and specialize in science with a master’s degree in science education. It can open doors to higher pay, wider career options and, of course, a rewarding experience for your students. Typically, graduates with a master’s degree in science education find that they’re prepared to take on leadership positions in science education, including educational development, teacher educators, and advanced teaching positions in the subject.
What You’ll Learn from a Master’s in Science Education
The curricula of master’s degree programs in science education often focus on inquiry-based learning and its effect. In addition to courses in education theory and research, most include a selected science concentration and a mandatory classroom practicum. In addition, science courses give you the chance to brush up on the subject matter that you’re teaching. Most master’s in science education degrees include courses such as:
- Biology for Educators
- Action Research
- Advanced Methods in Science and Math Instruction
- Theory and Research in Teaching Science
- Laboratory Curriculum Development
- Technology in Science Teaching
Where You Can Earn Your Online Master’s in Science Education
Online master’s degree programs in science education are offered by a variety of colleges and universities, including large state schools and teachers’ colleges. There are so many, that often, you can find a program that focuses on your particular teaching interests. For example:
- The science education option of the online master of education degree in curriculum and instruction offered by the University of Massachusetts Lowell is designed for K-12 educators. In addition to a capstone project, candidates choose from courses in education research, curriculum development and science instruction.
- The online master of science in the teaching of biological science from the University of Illinois is explicitly for biology teachers. The syllabus includes cutting-edge biology courses and instruction in inquiry-based teaching, as well as an action research project.
- The online master of natural sciences education from Colorado State University caters to biology, physics and chemistry teachers. Education and natural science courses are combined with a research experience and independent study.
Explore Career Options in Science Education
The future looks good for qualified science teachers. In their 2008 report, the American Association for Employment in Education reported a shortage of teachers in all sciences, especially in physics and chemistry. In addition to opportunities at public schools, private schools and community colleges may be interested in teachers with an online master’s degree in science education.
A master’s degree may also make you eligible for positions such as:
- department chair
- science coach
- teacher leader
- science specialist
- teacher educator
- workshop leader
Science educators typically enjoy a steady career with good job opportunities available. High school science teachers, for example, can expect a growing job outlook and a median pay of $55,050 per year. Those that work for business schools or in higher education will often earn more, with salaries ranging from $64,020 to $91,820.
Start Your Master’s Degree in Science Education
Get started with your master’s degree in science education: view our database of online programs to discover the degree program for you.
