A master’s degree in science education provides an excellent way for current or aspiring high school teachers to find positions and increase their salaries. Today’s high school teachers are required to have a bachelor’s degree, but most schools prefer to hire candidates that have earned an advanced degree in education, particularly those that have a specialization, such as science.
What is a Master’s Degree in Science Education?
A master’s degree in science education is earned by attending classes and completing teaching requirements that are far more advanced than those earned through an undergraduate degree in education or a master’s degree in general education (MEd). This degree affirms that you an expert in the subject of science education.
Anyone interested in teaching science at high schools and potentially community colleges could greatly benefit from a science education degree.
10 Best Schools with Master’s in Science Education Degrees in U.S.
Students want to study at schools with excellent programs, so we’ve compiled a list of the best colleges in the U.S. that offer a master’s degree in science education to help you find a school that fits your needs. Each school’s ranking is based on the compilation of our data from reliable government sources, student surveys, college graduate interviews, and editorial reviews.
This ranking is based on our standards and the perfect school for individuals varies based on personal needs:
- Western Governors University
- CUNY Queens College
- CUNY Hunter College
- Eastern Michigan University
- University of Georgia
- Western Michigan University
- CUNY Brooklyn College
- SUNY College at Potsdam
- Bridgewater State University
- Teachers College at Columbia University
If you’re looking for other schools that offer Master’s in Science Education degrees, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the perfect school for you!
What Can I Do With a Degree in Science Education?
A master’s degree in science education leads to a wide variety of jobs available for new graduates and seasoned educators, and careers are not limited to just teaching. Graduates can enjoy new employment teaching children in K-12, teaching young adults in community college settings, or working in administrative roles for educational institutions. A science education graduate degree also offers career opportunities beyond the classroom in the following:
- Research
- Curriculum development
- Professional writing and editing
- Various roles within local, state, and federal government agencies
Salaries for Online Science Education Graduates
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average high school teacher in the United States earns $62,870 per year. However, with a master’s degree in science education, the annual income potential can be as much as $15,000 higher. Most school districts and private schools heavily recruit and pay higher salaries to individuals that have advanced degrees and with a specialization in STEM education.
Each year the U.S. Department of Education (ED) identifies teacher shortage areas. This report lists teacher needs by state and subject, and the report shows a consistent need for high school science teachers. According to ED predictions for this school year and next, there will be a significant need for biology, chemistry, and physics teachers in nearly 30% of the states across the country (USDE, 2021).
Master’s in Science Education Employment Outlook
According to the BLS, the employment projection for 2020-2030 shows a growth rate of 8% for this career path, which is equal to the average growth for all occupations within the United States. Projected increases in student enrollment could increase demand for high school teachers, but employment growth varies from state to state and is not guaranteed.
Many schools have reported difficulty filling teaching positions for certain subjects, including the sciences. Because of this, teachers who have specialized training in these subjects could have the best job prospects and a higher chance for sign-on bonuses.
Master’s Degree in Science Education Career Paths
New graduates of science education programs may choose to teach high school students while those with years of previous teaching experience may look to advance their careers by moving into a community college professor or school administrator role. Teaching at a four-year college or university typically requires a PhD.
- Median Salary: $62,870
- Career Outlook: +8% (2020-2030)
High school teachers prepare and deliver 9th to 12th-grade academic lessons and teach numerous skills that students will need to attend college or to enter the job market after graduation.
- Median Salary: $85,600
- Career Outlook: +13% (2020-2030)
Biological science professors provide students both classroom and laboratory biological instruction beyond the high school level. They may also conduct independent research and publish scholarly articles or books.
- Median Salary: $80,400
- Career Outlook: +8% (2020-2030)
Chemistry professors provide students with both classroom and laboratory chemistry instruction beyond the high school level. They may also conduct independent research and publish scholarly articles or books.
Source: BLS
Earning an Online Degree in Science Education
Most online master’s degree programs are designed for individuals pursuing an advanced degree while working. Therefore, they are designed to accommodate students who prefer or require flexible schedules. Online programs also match the quality of on-campus programs, and degrees earned online are no different from those earned on-campus.
Courses in Science Education Graduate Programs
The specific course requirements for each master of science education degree program vary from school to school, but the following are some examples of what you might be expected to complete.
- Curriculum development
- Action research
- Chemistry for science educators
- Energetics
- Evolutionary biology
- Physics education for mechanics
- Design and data analysis for researchers
How Long Does a Master’s in Science Education Degree Take To Finish?
The course of study to obtain a master’s in science education varies by program requirements and length of time for completion. These different factors can include:
Choosing the Best Master’s Degree in Science Education
Deciding to continue educational endeavors can be a daunting process when trying to balance life’s activities and responsibilities. Just like any other big decision, it is best to be well informed about the options available. Each person has different needs to achieve their ultimate goal, but the educational program chosen must also meet specific requirements based on things like types of degrees offered, class format, budget, and financial assistance.
Online vs. On Campus Science Degrees Programs
There are numerous online options for master’s degrees today. Online education programs offer students the flexibility and convenience to study where and when it is convenient for them. This format of asynchronous coursework makes studying online more appealing for working professionals or students making a career change.
However, on-campus programs offer face-to-face classes with greater opportunities for socializing and networking. This option may be more suitable for recent graduates who are interested in pursuing an advanced degree directly after completing their undergraduate studies.
Should I Complete Courses Online?
Online educational programs have become more common and offer an alternative option to campus-based programs. While online learning may have come with a stigma in the past, most large US-based colleges and universities now offer quality, accredited online courses and degree programs for both undergraduate and graduate specialties. Many of the online classes are taught by the same professors that teach on campus.
How Long do Online Courses Take to Complete?
Each online science education master’s program requires on average 40 – 65 credit hours, and many follow the traditional semester/quarter format. However, some parts of the curriculum can be different based on how courses are delivered.
Accreditation
When comparing schools, always check for accreditation. Accreditation means that a school and/or program meets the minimum standards set by an accrediting institution. For graduate education programs, students should check for programmatic accreditation to verify that the degree meets industry standards.
Online Master’s in Science Education Degree Admission Requirements
All online graduate programs require basic forms completed, documents submitted, and fees paid. Potential requirements for admission include:
- Application form (usually completed online)
- Application fee (can vary)
- Minimum BS in education
- GRE (some schools have been waiving this requirement)
- Official college or university transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Letters of recommendation (usually at least three)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)- for foreign students
Paying for Teaching and Education Programs
Paying for an advanced education can be costly and must fit within your budget. General information about the costs associated with earning a master’s degree (including online) is included below, along with some ways that students can get help paying for their degrees (scholarships, grants, etc.).
How Much Does an Online Master’s Degree in Science Cost?
Depending on the program and the school (private or public), tuition is typically charged per semester or per credit. Graduate courses also tend to cost more than undergraduate, but fewer are required for degree completion. In addition, schools usually offer a reduced cost for classes that are taken online.
Other things that you will need to consider when attending school will be room and board if living on campus, textbooks, and technology fees.
Scholarships for Science Education Students
Nearly every college or university offers various forms of financial aid for its students. These can be in the form of
- Grants (government and private)
- Scholarships that can be merit or need-based
- Loans
- Payment plans
Many scholarships are available specifically for educators. Other options are available from employers (tuition reimbursement) and the government (loan forgiveness) to help with college expenses.
Science Education Career Resources
The following are several organizations that serve master’s in science education graduates.
Master’s in Science Education FAQ
Get all the Universities.com's college news, advice, updates, financial aid, and more straight to your inbox.
Sources:
- American Association for the Advancement of Science. (2021)
- American Association of Chemistry Teachers. (2021)
- American Association of Physics Teachers (2021)
- Johns Hopkins University. (2021). Course Catalogue [Online]
- National Association of Biology Teachers. (2021)
- National Science Teachers Association. (2021)
- Stanford University. (2021). Course Catalogue [Online]
- University of Pennsylvania. (2021). Course Catalogue [Online]
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2019). Occupational Outlook Handbook, High School Teachers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2019). Occupational Outlook Handbook, Postsecondary Teachers
- U.S. Department of Education. (2021). Teacher Shortage Areas