MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Science Education
Overview
The Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum & Instruction with a specialization in Science Education is designed to advance the knowledge base of certified teachers. It meets national and state standards. Students enrolled in this program complete core coursework that helps them to expand their knowledge and abilities in areas that allow them to stay current and at the forefront of their field. They collaborate with peers and instructors in areas of curriculum studies, research methods and practices, technological integrations in the field of education, and humanistic and behavioral studies with a focus on diversity and fostering multicultural classroom environments.
In addition to the required coursework, students will either complete a 6-hour thesis component, a 3-hour teacher action research component, or a written comprehensive examination in their final semester of the program. Each of these options is designed to provide students with experience and application of concepts explored within the course of completing this degree.
Program Structure
The MEd focused in Science Education accommodates both full-time and part-time graduate students. Most courses are offered annually. Students complete a minimum of 12 hours in the areas of curriculum studies, research, technology, and humanistic and behavioral studies. They complete an additional 12 hours in Science Education, and 6-12 hours of electives. The number of electives required is dependent on whether the individual selects the thesis, research project, or comprehensive examination option. The 36 credit-hour requirement may be met in one of three ways:
- 30 hours of coursework and a thesis carrying 6 credit hours;
- 33 hours of coursework and a research project carrying 3 credit hours; or
- 36 hours of coursework and a written comprehensive examination.
At least one half of the minimum required credits must be at or above the 7000 level, and at least of 21 credit hours must be taken within the School of Education.
Required Coursework
EDCI 7824 Elementary School Curriculum (3)
EDCI 7825 Secondary School Curriculum (3)
EDCI 7901 Curriculum Theory (3)
ELRC 4006 Introduction to Applied Statistics in Educational Settings (3)
ELRC 4249 Understanding and Applying Research in Education (3)
ELRC 7243 Qualitative Methods in Educational Research(4)
or approved equivalent
ELRC 4507 Computer Technology in Education (3)
ELRC 4535 Educational Telecommunications and the Internet (3)
ELRC 7505 Design and Development of Multimedia Instructional Units (3)
or approved equivalent
EDCI 4800 Teaching in the Multicultural Classroom (3)
EDCI 7904 Education and Cognition (3)
EDCI 7106 Teaching Literacy to Students of Diverse Cultural Backgrounds (3)
or approved equivalent
The departmental-level academic course plan is developed in consultation with and approved by the student’s graduate advisory committee.
Students may take special topics courses (e.g., EDCI 7308, EDCI 7931) more than one time if the topic is different.
EDCI 5880 Special Topics in Education: Assessment in Math and Science (3)
EDCI 7307 Topics in Curriculum & Instruction: Using Informal Settings to Teach Science and
Math (3)
EDCI 7308 Topics in Science Education: Teaching the Nature of Science (3)
EDCI 7308 Topics in Science Education: Technology Integration in Science & Math (3)
EDCI 7921 Analysis of Research in Curriculum & Instruction: Inquiry in Science & Mathematics
(3)
EDCI 7930 Seminar Curriculum & Instruction: Trends and Issues in Science Education (3)
EDCI 7931 Seminar Curriculum & Instruction: Project-Based Learning in Science & Mathematics)
(3)
EDCI 7931 Seminar Curriculum & Instruction: Sociocultural Perspectives in Science & Mathematics
(3)
Electives may include courses outside the School of Education. Electives are approved by the major advisor.