Master of Arts in Education—Science Education

Become a specialized K-12 science educator with ECU’s master’s in science education program

Whether you’re a teacher or informal science educator, the more knowledge and skills you have in your concentration area, the more you offer students and employers. Deepen your understanding of science, develop your research skills, become a better instructor, and lead in your field with a master’s in science education degree.

At East Carolina University, we offer a practitioner-oriented Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Science Education to help you reach your academic and professional goals. Our MAEd provides training in research similar to a Master of Science in Science Education program. Yet, it offers many more benefits—and with the flexibility you need to be successful.

A science education master’s degree designed for your needs

You’ll take courses for your master’s in science education online—from the convenience of your location. Complete your degree in as fast as one year to quickly become a specialized K-12 science educator. You may also extend your studies as needed or choose our 21-month cohort option for peer support throughout your journey.

Why study science education at ECU?

ECU’s master’s in science education online degree is consistently named among the best in the U.S., including a first-place ranking on Best Value School’s 2021 and 2022 lists. Discover why our MAEd in Science Education may be a better option for you over a Master of Science in Science Education or master’s in STEM education degree.

Enjoy peer support and networking

Like many ECU students, you may choose to participate in a cohort as you pursue your science education master’s degree. Alongside your fellow science educators, you’ll begin your studies in the fall and complete your degree 21 months later.

Take your studies abroad

Every year, ECU faculty travel with our master’s in science education students to another country to explore topics of a scientific nature. Past trips have included destinations such as Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic.

Learn from award-winning faculty

ECU faculty for your master’s in science education online degree are consistently recognized for their teaching, research and mentorship in the field of science education. Under their guidance, you’ll learn not only the subject matter but also how to become a trusted mentor to other teachers.

Courses you will take in the science education master’s program

At ECU, you’ll become a specialized science educator through your master’s in science education coursework. Unlike a more generalized master’s in STEM education, your training will develop your knowledge and skills in what you want to teach most: science.

You’ll explore the latest research on science teaching and learning, conduct your own research, and evaluate technologies specific to science education in these classes and others:

• Technology in Science Teaching, Learning, and Professional Development
• Introduction to Differences in Learning
• Advanced Studies in Biological Science for Teachers
• Advanced Methods of Assessment in Science Education
• Understanding and Engaging in Educational Research
  Our broad curriculum keeps science education front and center, expanding your teaching abilities beyond that of a Master of Science in Science Education, which may only serve to enhance your subject-area expertise. For more information on courses for ECU’s science education master’s degree, visit our catalog.

What can you do with your master’s in science education?

If you wish to transition to a career outside of education, a Master of Science in Science Education or master’s in STEM education may offer a solution to your goals. However, if teaching science to K-12 students—or leading those who do—is your passion, ECU’s MAEd in Science Education might be the ideal degree program for you.

Your completion of our master’s in science education demonstrates many advanced competencies to school administrators and other professionals. Among them are foundational and pedagogical content knowledge, assessment, and diversity and equity. If you currently hold a valid A-level license in North Carolina, you’ll also be eligible to obtain M-level licensure after earning your master’s in science education online, opening the door to a wider range of instructional and administrative positions.

What are graduates with a master’s in science education doing with their degree?

Like other ECU students who hold a Master of Arts in Education in Science Education, you may choose to:

• Further your professional development with National Board Certification
• Complete a doctoral degree in science education
• Become a professional development leader in science education reform projects funded by the National Science Foundation
• Assume a teacher and administrative role within a K-12 school or school district

Data from the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics  shows that, in 2018, 58% of lower secondary science teachers in the U.S. held a master’s degree. Get the education and training you need at East Carolina University to not only compete for but to also land the job you want.

Get started on your science education master’s degree

Take the next step toward earning your master’s in science education degree. We have the resources to answer all your questions and help you get started.

ECU programs related to science education

• Science Education Specialist Certificate
• Instructional Technology, MAEd
• Mathematics Education, MAEd
• Graduate Certificate in Elementary Mathematics Education
• Graduate Certificate for Special Endorsement in Computer Education

Accreditation for the science education master’s degree at ECU

The Master of Arts in Education, Science Education, program is accredited by SACS, CAEP, and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.