(M.S., M.Ed., C.A.S.)

Graduate programs in Science Education provide coursework in professional education and in a specialized science or environmental field. Studies usually include specialization in a specific area such as a physical, biological or earth science, and an emphasis on a specific level such as elementary or secondary. Specialization in environmental education includes environmental studies or natural resources, marine education, and environmental problems.

Master’s candidates should have degrees in a specific science or science education.  Students in a M.S. or M.Ed. Science Education program take 12-15 credit hours in a major science subject area. Students in Environmental Education take 18 credit hours in general or specific environmental studies, including basic science as well as humanities and social sciences. Study may be broadened to include areas such as outdoor education, recreation, and community education.

M.Ed. The regular (non-thesis) Master of Education degree program in Science Education requires a minimum of 33 credit hours. Applicants should have degrees in a specific science or science education and must take 15 credit hours in education and 12-15 credit hours in a major science subject area.

The M.Ed. Plus Certification program allows the student to satisfy the State of Maine requirements for secondary science teacher certification in physical sciences or life sciences (grades 7-12) while completing 30-credit hours in education and 15 credits of coursework in a science subject area. The program includes one full semester of teaching internship in a local middle or high school.

C.A.S.: The Certificate of Advanced Study program in Science Education includes an individually planned course of study developed by the student and advisor. The program may include half the work in professional education and the other half in an area of concentration such as science or environmental studies.

M.S.: The Master of Science degree is a thesis program with a minimum of 30 credit hours. Applicants should have degrees in a specific science or science education. Students in the M.S. degree program take 12-15 credit hours in a major science subject area.