Mar 28, 2024  
Graduate Record 2006-2007 
    
Graduate Record 2006-2007 [ARCHIVED RECORD]

Science Education


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The Science Education Program offers graduate-level programs in science education including the master’s (M.Ed. or M.T.), education specialist (Ed.S.), and doctoral (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) degrees. The program also provides preparation in science and science teaching methods for students in the Master of Teaching Program and results in initial licensure and endorsement in an area of science. The purpose of the master’s-level program is to prepare teachers and/or supervisors of science education. The purposes of the doctoral program are threefold: (1) to prepare college and/or university science educators to teach science methods courses, to perform a variety of professional functions related to preservice and inservice education of teachers, and to perform the function of directing graduate study in science education; (2) to prepare supervisors and coordinators to direct the program of science instruction in a school system at the local, county, or state level; and (3) to prepare research specialists for programs of science instruction at all educational levels.

Applicants for admission to the doctoral program in science education must present a strong background in one field of science with sufficient breadth in related fields to ensure that they can pursue graduate study effectively. The candidate must also present evidence of two years of effective work experience related directly to the field of science education.

Applicants for master’s-level study must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, have a B average or better for the last two years of undergraduate study, and meet other requirements for admission to the degree program. In addition to the admission requirements applicable to the master’s program, an applicant to the doctoral program must: hold a master’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university; have an outstanding record as a student; and have previous professional experience in an area related to science education.

Course Requirements Candidates for the doctoral degree in science education must complete a minimum of 36 credits in science, 12 credits in science education, and 24 credits in two supporting fields, plus elective courses as determined by their advisory committee, for a minimum total of 72 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree. The supporting fields are research and statistics (12 credits); curriculum (12 credits); supervision and administration (12 credits); instructional technology (12 credits); and instruction (12 credits). Regardless of the supporting fields, each student must have nine credits of research and statistics, including intermediate statistics and research design. The dissertation relates to learning theories or instructional practices in science education.

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