Aurora University Online Master’s in Science Education

Innovations that power our economy and global status start in the classroom. Academic achievement in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects spark creativity and drive new ideas that keep us competitive on a global scale. In fact, today’s knowledge-based economy thrives on STEM-related industries with tremendous job opportunities existing in those fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 80 percent of the fastest growing jobs in the U.S. depend on the mastery of mathematics and scientific knowledge and skills. And, employment trends show three times greater job growth for STEM-related industries than non-STEM industries. However, American students aren’t performing up to global achievement standards, particularly science, where the U.S. ranked 17 out of 34 measured countries on science testing as part of a recent Program for International Student Assessment (PISA).

Teachers with a mastery of the STEM subjects and pedagogy methods are needed in today’s classrooms to bolster academic achievement levels and ensure the U.S. is a global competitor and innovator.

More on the Aurora University Science Education Program

Secondary teachers can enhance their level of scientific understanding in fields such as biology, chemistry, physical science and earth as well as space science. The online master’s in science education from Aurora University utilizes the Next Generation Science Standards for curriculum development.

Online courses are led by faculty members who are trained to work specifically with current teachers to ensure courses meet the needs of teachers in the STEM space. Teachers are instructed on how to implement age-appropriate science programs in their own classroom and become advocates for STEM subjects as a means of ensuring future student success in and outside of the classroom.

Program requirements: The online Master of Arts in Science Education degree requires 37 semester hours, including one semester hour of required field experience.

Admission requirements: To enroll in the online master’s in mathematics and science education program, teachers must meet the following requirements:

• Current teaching certificate/license
• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college and/or university (minimum 2.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale)
• Prior undergraduate coursework should include one year of biology or a combination of biology and chemistry
• Resume or curriculum vita
• Personal statement
• Two (2) letters of recommendation
• Transcripts (official, sealed in envelope) from all previously attended colleges and/or universities

The GRE is not required for admission.