Science Education Specialist Certificate
Are you interested in growing professionally, becoming a science leader or district science specialist, or teaching science in informal settings?
Apply now for the Science Education Specialist certificate!
Contact Us
For information on the program:
Dr. Tammy Lee
Certificate Coordinator
252-328-9364
leeta@ecu.edu
For information on the application process:
Dr. Ron Preston
Director of Graduate Education
252-328-9355
prestonr@ecu.edu
The Science Education Specialist Certificate is an entirely online program designed to develop advanced competencies in K-12 science education in the following areas: pedagogical content knowledge, foundational content knowledge, and effective use of technology. The certificate is intended to sharpen instructional expertise and promote leadership in science education. Earn add-on science licensure at the elementary level upon successful completion of the certificate. The five courses are also a subset of the MAEd in Science Education and may be applied to the degree. Courses are offered via Canvas and are taught in an asynchronous manner.
Other program benefits:
- Expand career opportunities
- Interact with colleagues in professional learning community
- Explore the latest research on science teaching and learning
- Realize cost benefits — 40% of a comparable on-campus program
- Experience streamlined admissions requirements
Admission requirements
Admission to the Graduate School includes a completed application form, application fee, official transcripts for all colleges/universities attended, and a copy of your teaching license (waived upon request). Applications are accepted fall, spring, or summer, with the deadline for applications about 10 days before the start of a new semester or term.
Is This Program For Me?
The Science Education Specialist Certificate is designed for elementary, middle and high school teachers, curriculum specialists and informal science educators. School administrators as well as science museums and centers are looking for individuals who have specialized training in science education. The demand is great for science teacher leaders – develop your expertise and distinguish yourself with this unique credential.
Tuition and Fees
DE fees cost less than face-to-face fees. Current cost (tuition and fees) for graduate distance education for NC residents is approximately $919.19 per course as of Fall 2026. Include savings realized by not driving to campus, paying for parking, etc. and the program fits most budgets.
Curriculum
Students complete 15 semester hours of required courses.
- SCIE 6003 — Advanced Studies in Biological Science for Teachers
- SCIE 6004 — Advanced Studies in Physical Science for Teachers
- SCIE 6005 — Advanced Studies in Earth Systems Science for Teachers
- SCIE 6030 — Technology in Science Teaching, Learning and Professional Development
- SCIE 6310 — Advanced Methods in Science Teaching and Learning
May the Classes be Used Toward a Masters Degree?
Yes, the MAEd in Science Education. The MAEd includes all five certificate courses, plus an additional five courses in areas such as assessment and perspectives in science education and research courses that support the teacher in developing and conducting an action research study. Additionally, as a part of the MAEd in Science Education, students can choose to study abroad with our faculty. Studying human impact in coastal ecosystems, students have traveled to the cloud forest of Costa Rica and to the Dominican Republic to participate in a coral reef restoration project. One may finish the certificate and then do the MAEd or join the MAEd at any time while working on the certificate. All courses are offered online and are shown below with the semester in which they are offered.