Find your perfect college degree
If you’re already in the Education sector and looking to specialize in teaching or mastering a specific field—and if you happen to love science—it makes sense to pursue an online Master’s in Science Education. Science integrates several subjects and ideas and evokes attitudes of discoveries that are paramount in life and societies.
By enrolling in a master’s program that concentrates on science education, you can pursue advanced education that covers diverse science subjects such as biology, earth science, chemistry, and physics.
No matter what your end goal is, a master’s degree can help you develop both technical and soft abilities. There are many other courses where students learn advanced scientific topics, teaching techniques and methods, and educational technologies. Students also have the opportunity to study curriculum design, educational leadership, and research methods.
Additional Resources:
- Best Online Master’s in Secondary Education Grad Schools
- Best Grad Schools with Online Master’s in Social Studies
- Best Online Master’s in Online Teaching Grad Schools
Overview
Many universities and colleges now offer online master’s programs in science education. Some of them provide hands-on learning opportunities, such as virtual laboratories, interactive simulations, and online projects. These experiences help students gain practical teaching skills and, importantly, bridge the gap between theory and practice.
The capstone project in many programs requires students to apply their skills and knowledge in the real world. Curriculum development, academic research, or the development of ground-breaking instructional materials can all be part of this endeavor.
Methodology
Selecting a top-notch online master’s degree in Science Education and the university that provides it is not always simple. Students should thoroughly research and assess any university they are thinking about enrolling in, as well as review the course offerings for the institution’s online master’s programs.
We help you make the selection easier with our best online Master’s in Science Education graduate degrees! Each graduate program and school on our list stands out with these remarkable academic qualities:
- Offered in hybrid or online graduate-level classes, emphasizing convenience for students,
- Delivers excellent master’s degree coursework with the most up-to-date and advanced Science Education courses students can use in their career after graduation,
- Prepares students for a doctorate program in the field,
- Boasts an impressive roster of credentialed instructors with significant contributions to Science Education,
- Offers financial assistance to eligible online graduate students in Science Education,
- Provides academic advising for transfer credits and job placements,
- Affiliated with the appropriate accreditation organization, particularly in the area of Science Education, demonstrating compliance with online graduate degree standards,
- Enjoys stellar reviews from the Science Education academic community.
Read our Methodology page for details.
Best Grad Schools with Online Master’s in Science Education
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO
Online Master’s in Science Education
The online Master’s in Science Education program at Colorado State University enables you to become a more proficient science educator by enhancing your understanding of biology, environmental science, physics, and chemistry. This master’s program will also teach you the best teaching practices in classroom settings.
- Earning your master’s degree in a program designed especially for practicing and aspiring natural science teachers will allow you to start advancing your professional qualifications and knowledge.
- This Master’s program in Science Education is best fit for working science teachers who are looking to gain pedagogical skills or an ability to teach other natural science disciplines.
- Even if you already have solid experience and background in science education, you can take advantage of this graduate degree and obtain a teaching license separately.
- Tuition per credit hour is $640.
Standout Features of Colorado State University’s Online Master’s in Science Education Program:
With this master’s degree in Science Education, you can update your knowledge in different science branches and studies. Utilizing The Science Lab Kits for the program’s various modules, you have the opportunity to carry out experiments and projects in your own classroom.
Additionally, you will acquire tools to promote student engagement and learning by studying curriculum creation, instructional theory, and pedagogy. You can develop your teaching skills by enrolling in the classes at CSU’s Science Education focusing on discipline, communication, and presenting skills.
Did You Know?
Online courses are accessible at any time, allowing you to fit studying into your schedule. Although this is an online program, you should anticipate a workload that is comparable to that of a conventional on-campus program, requiring you to devote around 9 to 12 hours per week to activities that will help you prepare for each three-credit course.
Western Governors University
Millcreek, UT
Online Master of Arts in Science Education
Western Governors University is geared towards developing avant-garde STEM programs, and they are proud to support the growth and goals of STEM through their master of arts in science education. Your students can get a taste of the wonders of the scientific world.
- A master’s degree in Science Education online can help educators focus on teaching general science to middle- and junior-high school students.
- When you pick WGU, you’ll receive more than just a degree—you’ll also be given the tools you need to interact with a variety of students and promote the success of all types of learners.
- Your competency in a variety of natural scientific subjects, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth and space science, is ensured by a master’s degree in science teaching.
- You will master the classroom techniques required to successfully teach this material to middle school/junior high school students in addition to the subject matter.
- The program costs $17,300.
Standout Features of Western Governors University’s Online MA in Science Education Program:
An at-home science lab kit is included in the curriculum. You will have the option to acquire a self-contained laboratory kit, complete with scientific instruments, samples, and chemicals, to carry out lab procedures at home. It is advised that students consult with their Program Mentor before obtaining these at-home lab kits since they will be ordered at the start of the semester in which they are required.
The experts in the Education Program Council contributed to the development of this master’s degree program. These well-known experts are well aware of the qualifications needed for graduates to instruct young adolescents in general scientific subjects, principles, and methods.
Did You Know?
This online MA in Science Education is intended for licensed teachers who already have a bachelor’s degree and want to expand their teaching specializations to include middle school science. Aspiring instructors looking to obtain their teaching certification or license should not enroll in this online master’s degree in scientific education.
University of Georgia
Athens, GA
Online Master of Education in Science Education
The Master of Education in Science Education, available online via the University of Georgia Mary Frances Early College of Education, focuses on the natural sciences at the secondary level (Grades 6–12). The curriculum is intended for educators who are professionally certified in the secondary scientific disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, earth/space sciences, or middle grades education with a science emphasis.
- Most states should also allow graduates to upgrade their certifications, as they are in Georgia.
- The UGA College of Education offers all needed curriculum online and is taught by highly regarded faculty.
- For the 2024-25 academic year, tuition is $15,372 for Georgia residents and $42,552 for out-of-state students at the recommended pace.
Standout Features of the University of Georgia’s Online Master of Education in Science Education Program:
The unique possibilities and problems that secondary science teachers confront today are discussed by students and instructors, with an emphasis on understanding research-based approaches that build on their applied professional skills gained through classroom experience.
The integration of science material with technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as with socioscientific concerns, is the topic of several highly recommended master’s level science education courses. Educational psychology and electives that allow students to explore graduate-level science materials are available for students to hand-pick.
Did You Know?
UGA Graduate School regulations stipulate that until graduation, students must register for at least one course in at least two of the three semesters of every year. It is anticipated that most students will finish the Master of Education in Science Education program in around two years because the majority of them will be full-time teachers, with the most typical pattern being three courses per summer and one or two per academic year semester.
University of Northern Colorado
Loveland, CO
Online Master of Arts in Science Education
The Master of Arts in Science Education is made available at the University of Northern Colorado, and it is designed with working teachers in mind. Since this degree is offered online, you can attend it whenever it’s convenient for you. The degree can be earned in two years by working instructors.
- This master’s program aims to improve your pedagogical and scientific expertise for science teaching in K–12 settings.
- You’ll finish an action research project on a contemporary science K–12 issue that is pertinent to your classroom setting.
- Tuition costs $636 per credit hour.
Standout Features of the University of Northern Colorado’s Online MA in Science Education Program:
By taking challenging graduate-level science courses, you will improve your knowledge of the curriculum requirements for your line of work, gain expertise in inquiry-focused teaching strategies, develop an understanding of diverse learners, create strategies for reflecting on how your teaching impacts your K-12 students, and advance on your district salary scale.
Did You Know?
At least 50% of graduate program credits, excluding research, capstone, seminars, internships, theses, and dissertation proposals, must be taken at the University of Northern Colorado by the student. For master’s degree credit, courses must be no older than five years old and cannot have been utilized to satisfy the criteria for a previously conferred degree.
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA
Online Master of Arts in Science Education
The University of Northern Iowa is offering an online Master of Arts in Science Education. With this program’s integration of theory, application, and content, you may refresh your pedagogy, add endorsements, or broaden your understanding of the subject matter in your specialist areas.
- This master’s degree is designed for working K–12 science teachers, and optional credits may also be applied toward certifications in computer science, physics, or earth science.
- This is the first distance learning program offered in Iowa specifically designed for science teachers.
- This degree creates an understanding of science topics as well as research-based teaching strategies.
- By teaching science according to the Next Generation Science Education Standards, students will be able to create their knowledge through inquiry.
- Students may qualify for a $2,000 Online & Distance Education Scholarship.
- The program costs $569 per credit hour.
Standout Features of the University of Northern Iowa’s Online MA in Science Education Program:
The program structure and timetable, which are intended for in-service teachers, offer ease and flexibility to fit into your busy life. Cohort models are used to have groups of students finish the required curriculum over two years.
To finish the program, additional electives are taken concurrently or in later semesters. Over 3-4 credits of graduate coursework per semester throughout the academic year is not advised for full-time instructors.
Did You Know?
You will have a dedicated program assistant as an online student here at the University of Northern Iowa. This means you can acquire assistance with registering for classes, processing payments, and getting ready for graduation.
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK
Online Master of Science in Teaching, Learning & Leadership: Mathematics and Science Education
For K–12 educators who desire to enhance their content and pedagogical understanding of the best practices in teaching Science and Mathematics, the master’s degree in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership with an Option in Mathematics and Science Education is offered by Oklahoma State University.
- Graduates of the program are equipped to strike a balance between theory, research, and practice in order to challenge students studying science and mathematics in a range of educational contexts.
- Tuition & fees per 16 credit hour is $7,820 (in-state) and $8,480 (out-of-state)
Standout Features of Oklahoma State University’s Online MS in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership: Mathematics and Science Education Program:
The platform used for this entirely online master’s program is Canva. The curriculum is designed to be completed more quickly than two years, with students enrolling in two courses per semester. However, this can be changed as necessary.
Did You Know?
Students who fulfill certain qualifying standards and are pursuing degrees in high-need sectors may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year from the federal TEACH Grant Program. Students are required to sign an Agreement to Serve, acknowledging that failure to comply with the requirements would result in the grant becoming a debt that has to be returned.
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Online Master of Science in Science Education
Future STEM leaders are being developed thanks in large part to the work of science teachers. By imparting knowledge on how to respond to inquiries, look into issues, and defend positions, you encourage the development of inquisitive minds.
All these are acquired when you enroll in Nova Southeastern University’s Master of Science in Science Education degree. Because scientific knowledge, along with innovation and technology, is what moves the world ahead, your position as a science teacher is crucial.
- The MS in Science Education is created to assist you in honing your teaching abilities, pursuing positions in administrative, business, and charitable organizations, and increasing your income.
- You’ll be ready in accordance with the National Science Teachers Association’s Next Generation Science Standards.
- Learn more about several science disciplines and abilities, which will improve your ability to teach science to a variety of students.
- It takes 36 credits to finish the Science Education program in its entirety.
- Per credit hour costs $1,199.
Standout Features of Nova Southeastern University’s Online MS in Science Education Program:
The Master of Science in Science Education program’s coursework is fully online, so you may do it without missing out on the job or having to make a long commute. All graduate programs accept applications for admission online and on a rolling basis throughout the whole year.
Did You Know?
There is an applied professional experience integrated into this graduate degree. Candidates will keep reflective diaries and compile samples of their students’ work as well as the test results needed to show that they have met the state’s professional and content criteria.
This work will be done in an appropriate educational context. A portfolio outlining the purpose, procedure, and assessment of each applicable professional experience is included.
Lesley University
Cambridge, MA
Online Master of Education: Science Education
Lesley University designs this hands-on, interactive Master of Education in Science Education program. It’s best suited to teachers or curriculum specialists in elementary or middle schools who want to enhance their teaching. The course provides you with skills in scientific research, curriculum design, and evaluation, along with learning new subject matter.
- In this master’s program, you can examine how educational research translates into classroom practice, learn how to incorporate STEM curriculum areas and leverage local environmental challenges as real learning experiences.
- You’ll learn about topics such as life science, earth science, assessment, and equity in education.
- Further specializations are possible through electives like natural disasters, sustainable chemistry, robotics, great diseases, and sustainable engineering.
- Students pay $875 per credit hour.
Standout Features of Lesley University’s Online Master of Education in Science Education Program:
This program’s handy online style offers the freedom to study on your own terms. The interactive features keep you linked to an encouraging online community. You can be certain you’re receiving all a Lesley education has to offer by having access to the most up-to-date online learning resources and technologies.
Did You Know?
With wages averaging over $65,000 annually, graduates with master’s degrees in Education have access to outstanding work prospects. The typical income in Massachusetts was $86,755.
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
Online Master of Arts in Science Education
You must finish a planned combination of courses from one or more subject areas at Northern Arizona University that totals at least 30 units of graduate-level coursework. More than 30 units are often required for master’s degree programs.
A thesis can be included in this online master’s program in science education.
- Every graduate coursework should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- The master’s degree must be earned in full within six consecutive years. As soon as the program is accepted, the six-year period begins.
- Students pay an average of $11,430 per year for this degree.
Standout Features of Northern Arizona University’s Online MA in Science Education Program:
The MA in Science Teaching Degree at Northern Arizona University is a challenging online program created for experienced teachers who want to develop their topic understanding and improve their classroom practice by focusing on research-based teaching practices that make science approachable to students.
The program is exceptional in that it only focuses on scientific teaching, allowing students to join a supportive community of successful science teachers who are taught by professors who are experts in the field and who carry out research in this area.
Did You Know?
This academic path does not lead to certification as a K-12 public school teacher. For professional certification, please refer to the Teaching Science with Certification (MAT-S) program. Additionally, the curriculum is not set up to offer the right graduate-level scientific coursework for instructors of dual-degree courses in high school.
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
Online Master of Science in Science Education
In DePaul University’s online Master of Science in Science Education, your subject knowledge and the abilities you need to be a master teacher will improve. This curriculum promotes and exemplifies scientific inquiry skills, as well as the skepticism, curiosity, and openness to new ideas that are inherent in the study of science.
With the most recent scientific education research at your disposal, you may better connect your curriculum with the Next Generation Scientific Standards.
- K-12 teachers can earn a Master of Science in Science Education in two years through this program designed perfectly for in-service teachers.
- Their Lincoln Park campus offers classes in the evenings, or you can study completely online.
- This is a cohort-based program.
- Annual tuition costs $17,352.
Standout Features of the DePaul University’s Online MS in Science Education Program:
The MS in Science Education program includes cutting-edge, high-impact science activities, such as a high-altitude ballooning course where you will construct and launch scientific payloads into Earth’s upper atmosphere. You’ll also carry out an action research project in a nearby school as part of your capstone to aid in enhancing science teaching and learning.
Did You Know?
They have world-renowned professors like Bernhard Beck-Winchatz, who is an astrophysicist who teaches the latest scientific discoveries and research. By collaborating with DePaul’s STEM center, he has conducted science experiments in near-space with CPS middle school students.
Here’s a summary table of the best graduate schools offering online Master’s in Science Education:
| University | Tuition | Program Highlights |
| Colorado State University | $640 per Credit Hour | Focus on biology, environmental science, physics, and chemistry; includes Science Lab Kits; flexible online access with a workload similar to on-campus programs. |
| Western Governors University | $17,300 (total) | Includes at-home science lab kit; designed for licensed teachers; emphasizes teaching general science to middle/junior high students. |
| University of Georgia | $15,372 (in-state) | Focus on secondary science education; integration of technology and research-based approaches; requires registration in multiple semesters for completion. |
| University of Northern Colorado | $636 per Credit Hour | Designed for working teachers; includes action research project; improves pedagogical and scientific expertise for K-12 settings. |
| University of Northern Iowa | $569 per Credit Hour | Designed for K-12 science teachers; allows for endorsements in various subjects; cohort model for support and flexibility. |
| Oklahoma State University | Per 16 credit: $7,820 (in-state) and $8,480 (out-of-state) | Focus on K-12 educators; curriculum designed for completion in under two years; eligible for TEACH Grant funding. |
| Nova Southeastern University | $1,199 per Credit Hour | Emphasizes teaching abilities and positions in administration or business; includes applied professional experience and portfolio development. |
| Lesley University | $875 per Credit Hour | Hands-on approach; focuses on curriculum design and STEM integration; offers specializations through electives. |
| Northern Arizona University | $11,430 per year | Research-based teaching practices; focuses on scientific teaching; supportive community of educators; thesis option available. |
| DePaul University | $17,352 (annual) | Cohort-based program with hands-on science activities; includes a capstone action research project; aligns with Next Generation Science Standards. |
7 Possible Careers to Pursue as Master’s in Science Education Graduates
1. College Instructors or Professors
Average Annual Salary: $84,380
After finishing a master’s degree in science education, you can consider professions in scientific teaching at the college level if you wish to teach at a higher level. In this role, you would instruct scientific courses in your area of expertise.
With a master’s degree, you may often teach classes in colleges and universities. These jobs often involve lectures and laboratories, allowing you to concentrate on instructing rather than conducting research. There are many universities and community colleges that are hiring college professors with science specialties.
2. Biologists
Average Annual Salary: $70,600
Biologists are usually in charge of evaluating the effects of industry on living matter, and they document these facts and communicate findings in journals or notes. These biologists investigate the effects of living species on each other and their environment. Senior naturalists frequently examine the data that younger naturalists collect, and they can educate the public about wildlife and conservation issues by identifying plants and fauna.
3. Author
Average Annual Salary: $73,690
If you have amazing writing skills, combine them with your master’s degree in Science Education and become an author. Research is often collected by authors, a story idea is developed, and a narrative is written and revised. Your material may be fictitious, nonfictional, biographical, historical, or published in different media forms. Authors may constantly work with editors, publishers, and researchers and may even travel a lot to find inspiration and more information about the topics.
4. Museum Curator
Average Annual Salary: $57,120
One professional path in scientific education is being a museum curator. To put your knowledge into practice in an environment that is more practical, you can work at a museum. For instance, science museums require staff to design every component of their exhibitions. You may choose subjects, gather resources, organize the flow, and create content. Some museums require employees to create experiments and hands-on activities for visitors.
5. Education Coordinator
Average Annual Salary: $74,620
Because they design and deliver teacher training, plan and execute curriculum, and analyze student test results, education coordinators frequently manage education on a larger scale. Many education coordinators act as mentors to aid instructors in honing their craft by managing and suggesting instructional materials and methods. Organizing open talks with members of the school board and the teaching staff to examine and recommend curricular modifications is another shared job.
6. School Counselor
Average Annual Salary: $61,710
A school counselor supports kids’ mental and emotional well-being and motivates them to take on tough possibilities in order to help them succeed academically. To guarantee a secure, effective learning environment, they often collaborate with instructors and kids to pinpoint each student’s specific strengths and handle problem situations. Numerous counselors also assist kids in developing their social and academic abilities and in setting both short- and long-term objectives.
7. Public Policy Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $94,921
When establishing policies pertaining to science and education, government representatives frequently consult advisors. Officials rely on policy advisers to supply the information and insight they lack because they typically aren’t scientific specialists. You would be required to conduct research for this position, look at the body of scientific literature on the subject, and stay current on the system’s status. After that, you would collaborate with the legislative and executive branches to suggest new rules and regulations.
Common Courses to Take in an Online Master’s in Science Education
Curriculum Development
One core course in Master’s in Science Education is Curriculum Development. This course aims to give classroom teachers, administrators, and pre-service teachers a framework for selecting a curriculum. Historical customs, curricular ideologies, best practice instructional ideas, current curriculum concerns, standards practices, and backward design theory are all examined in this course.
Chemistry for Science Educators
The relationship between a molecule’s structure and its chemical characteristics is examined in the Chemistry for Science Educators course. This includes the chemistry of surfaces, solubility, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, states of matter, and acids and bases. A simple experiment on the characteristics of water in its various phases is part of this course. Also, you can expect to use a science lab kit in this class.
Action Research
This course is designed to develop educators’ skills and knowledge in the planning and implementation of school-based research in order to enhance teaching and learning in the classroom. It provides a method for improving instructional methods. A combination of actions and findings are used in this process. To modify practices, a procedure of evidence gathering must be followed.
Evolutionary Biology for Educators
In Evolutionary Biology for Educators, students learn about how evolution occurs. You learn about the four pathways of evolutionary change and how the world’s intricate biodiversity is produced. Some of the subtopics included in this coursework include human evolution, genetics, life history, developmental biology, and the mechanics of evolution. Solving problems and writing essays are all part of the exercises in this course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an online Master’s in Science Education?
Enhancing the teaching and understanding of science topics in K–12 (kindergarten–12th grade) education is the main goal of an online Master’s in Science Education program. This kind of program is intended for those with a background in science who want to improve their knowledge and abilities in curriculum building, teaching, and educational leadership.
What are the requirements if you want to study for an online Master’s Degree in Science Education?
Depending on the university offering the program, different criteria may apply to studying for an online master’s degree in science education. When applying for a program like this, you may anticipate some standard requirements and application materials.
For instance, you usually require a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Some programs could favor candidates with a background in teaching or a closely related discipline, but others might accept candidates with a strong scientific background.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores could be required for some programs. However, this is a less typical requirement now. Make sure to review the program’s exact criteria if you’re interested. If you’re currently a teacher and you’re applying for a Master’s degree in science education, you might showcase some of your teaching experiences.
What to expect in an online Master’s in Science Education?
It may be pleasant and stimulating to pursue an online master’s degree in science education. Participate in interactive online learning activities, such as multimedia presentations, online conversations, virtual laboratories, and video lectures. Create a feeling of community despite the program’s distance by working together on group projects, online forums, and virtual study sessions with classmates and instructors.
To put your theoretical knowledge to use in practical situations, you can take part in activities like student teaching, internships, or fieldwork in nearby educational facilities or institutes of higher learning.
Key Takeaways
- You may get first-hand exposure to a variety of educational technologies and tools that are often utilized in contemporary classrooms by pursuing an online Master’s in Science Education. This will better equip you to use technology in your teaching successfully.
- To comprehend the particular courses, prerequisites, and chances accessible to you, it is crucial to research the Master in Science Education curriculum and program specifics supplied by the university you intend to attend.
- By earning an online Master’s in Science Education, educators can expand their career options and become better science instructors, curriculum creators, school administrators, or educational researchers.
