Best Online Master’s In Science Education Degrees
No science education degree is exactly the same. While some of these programs expect you to already be a licensed teacher, others do not require prior certification. These programs are either MAs, MSs, or MEds.
Updated September 9, 2022 · 6 Min Read
Are you ready to find your fit?
Are you passionate about introducing young people to science? Do you want to become an expert in developing curriculum programs that are effective, captivating, and inventive? Do you want to inspire young people to pursue their STEM dreams?
Then an advanced degree in science education is just for you!
What kind of master’s in science education degree should you get?
No science education degree is exactly the same. While some of these programs expect you to already be a licensed teacher, others do not require prior certification. These programs are either MAs, MSs, or MEds.
While some provide licensure others prepare you for a career in community college teaching or an “informal” educational setting, meaning community centers, museums, and more. If you want to teach, make sure you find a program that will license you if you aren’t already.
Despite the differences in programs and their respective structures and requirements, all of the programs on this list can be earned fully online. Distance education is not only a flexible way to advance your career, it’s affordable too. For that reason, be sure to check out College Choice’s Best Online Colleges and Universities.
How much money do people make with a master’s in science education degree?
Here’s the not-so-good (and not-so-surprising) news: teachers are among the least paid professionals in the country.
Here’s the better news. On average, science education teachers make around $59,700 a year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
But that number leaps upward with the added specialization and experience that comes from earning a master’s degree. According to Payscale, science teachers can make upwards of $75,000 a year.
What can you do with a master’s in science education degree?
While a graduate degree in science education will prepare you to teach, the opportunities for those with this degree extend far beyond the classroom.
For example, graduates from the 15 programs below have secured careers in everything from science advocacy and policy to administration, research, curriculum development, and more.
Additionally, many of the programs on our list offer specialized certification or concentration in an array of areas. You can specialize in a traditional science subject, such as biology or earth sciences. Or you can focus on technology integration, environmental science, and more. These added areas of expertise will set you apart upon graduation.
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What are the requirements for an online master’s in science education degree?
Most of the programs on our list require at least two years of full time study. You’ll allocate that first year to core education courses on curriculum design, pedagogy, and classroom management. Then you will take coursework in your content area, whether that’s biology or physics, or something in between.
If you’re training to teach elementary school you can expect a more generalized curriculum. But if you’re preparing to work in a middle or high school classroom then get ready for an in-depth exploration of your speciality area.
Finally, some programs require field practicums. This will give you real-world, hands-on experience in the classroom if you don’t already have it. We’ve been sure to note which programs require field work.
What are the best online master’s in science education degrees?
While some of these programs are offered through large research universities and others through small liberal arts college, they all share one thing one common: they are the 15 best online master’s in science education programs in the country.
To determine the best science education programs we first looked at each program in the country that offers the degree online. From there we looked at the academic reputation of each school as well as retention rates, affordability, and the early salaries of graduates.
After such extensive research, we determined the best programs in the nation that prepare science education teachers. Our figures and information come from the university and colleges’ websites, PayScale, and nationally recognized U.S. News & World Report and The National Center for Education Statistics.
Best Master's in Science Education Online
See our rankings methodology page.
#1
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Socorro, New Mexico |
| Admission Rate | 80% |
| Graduation Rate | 50% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
9%
|
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. Students with a bachelor’s in science education may want to explore the top-ranked master of science for teachers. The graduate program provides advanced training in a format friendly to those who work or have to manage other obligations.
An 8-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio facilitates faculty mentorship opportunities and collaboration in this master of science for teachers. Learners complete specialized coursework and training focused on advanced theoretical concepts and practices in science education. This higher-level academic preparation is a prerequisite for career advancement or a doctoral program in teaching or a related field.
New Mexico residents can expect to pay $7,160 per year, and out-of-state students pay $23,585. Many degree-seekers qualify for financial aid, such as grants and scholarships from the school and through third parties. About 48% of New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology's learners take out a student loan to fund their degree.
#2
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Raleigh, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 45% |
| Graduation Rate | 82% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
41%
|
North Carolina State University at Raleigh provides science education students with an online master of education with a concentration in science education program that ranks highly among similar degree offerings. The master of education degree equips enrollees with advanced training valued by employers. Graduates gain the credentials they need to pursue a terminal degree, such as a doctorate.
The online format can accommodate busy students, including those who work and have pressing family obligations. Whether enrollees are learning in person or online, they study in a supportive academic environment.
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree to apply to this program. Students get accepted at a rate of 45%. In-state students can expect to pay around $9,095 per year, which they can help fund through grants, loans, and scholarships.
#3
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Amherst, Massachusetts |
| Admission Rate | 64% |
| Graduation Rate | 82% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
15%
|
At University of Massachusetts-Amherst, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. Learners with a bachelor’s degree in education may want to explore the top-ranked science education master's program. Enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum using a flexible format that accommodates their schedules.
The benefits of a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio includes individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. The curriculum provides extensive training administered by scholars and experts. It prepares graduates with the academic training necessary to succeed in a competitive workforce or a doctoral program.
Tuition depends on state residency status, with Massachusetts students paying $14,014 per year, and those living out of state paying $29,529. Many degree-seekers reduce this bill with grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. About 54% of enrollees use student loans to finance all or part of their degree.
#4
Hamline University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Saint Paul, Minnesota |
| Admission Rate | 68% |
| Graduation Rate | 70% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
18%
|
Many students want to attend graduate school online, and Hamline University offers that privilege from the Saint Paul, Minnesota, campus. The institution’s four online master's degrees help make the college a leader in online graduate education, including the master of arts in education with a concentration in natural science and environmental educationt.
Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Real-time interaction is often not required, and enrollees can complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.
Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 68% per year, but some programs may vary. Master's degree-seekers usually need to have a bachelor's degree in the same or a similar field to receive consideration. All of the application details are available on Hamline University's admissions page.
#5
Colorado State University-Global Campus
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Aurora, Colorado |
| Admission Rate | 99% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
Colorado State University-Global Campus is a public college located in Aurora, Colorado, with a strong catalog of academic programs and a learning experience tailored to meet learners’ needs. The institution is a leader in online graduate education, with 12 master's degrees available remotely. Among the options is the master's degree in natural sciences education.
Logistics is no barrier to earning the master's degree in natural sciences education, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. Recorded video sessions may be available to allow anytime viewing, and faculty may let enrollees complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. Candidates gain knowledge that employers value or they may use to enter a doctoral program.
An acceptance rate of 99% of applicants is the average, with some variations across programs. Degree-seekers need a bachelor’s degree for admission to most master’s programs. Contact Colorado State University-Global Campus to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.
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