SMTC Masters of Science in Natural Science - Middle Level Science Concentration (MSC)

Program Information:

The SMTC Masters of Science in Natural Science - Middle Level Science Concentration (MSC) is designed for elementary, middle school, and general science teachers who want to deepen their understanding of science concepts and environments that support teaching and learning science.  The program is based on national and state science standards, addressing the need for "Highly Qualified" teacher status in science education.  Courses provide content and pedagogy through interdisciplinary connections and contextual applications to real word situations.   Unifying themes and processes in science and the view of science as inquiry drive the courses.  Courses with a focus on science content, instructional strategies, and research rotate on a three year sequence among interdisciplinary problems drawn from the disciplines of physical science, earth science, and life science.  The 24 hours of courses specifically designed for this program are currently beginning a pilot process to include not only summers but also academic year courses via distance and hybrid instruction.

The MS NS - Science program must include 30 hours of course work with a:

• Minimum of 24 hours in biological sciences, physical sciences, or mathematics
  • 18 hours in natural sciences (NASC prefix)
  • 6 hours from appropriate science and mathematics courses in other department
• 6 additional Graduate Credits
• Completion of a Plan B (non-thesis) paper

Teaching Endorsement Information

Short Course Descriptions

Plan B Paper Guidelines

Summer 2013 (Classes begin June 10, 2013 and go through July 3, 2013)

NASC 5120 Earth Science in a Global Context (3)
ASTR 4000 Astronomy for Teachers (2)
NASC 5760 Natural Science Assessment (2)
NASC 5690 Instructional Technology (1)

Summer 2014

NASC 5130 Life Sciences in a Global Context (3)
ENTO 5601 Insects for Teachers (1)
SOC  4890 Global Populations and Environments (1)
NASC 5690 Science, Technology and Society Plan B Research (2)
BOT   4790 Field Techniques (1)

Summer 2015

NASC 5110 Physical Science (3)
NASC 5600 Math and Stats in Science Teaching (2)
NASC 5510 Integrated Instructional Strategies (2)
EE     4800 Energy Policies and Impacts (1)

Applications are now closed for the 2013 Summer Session. Please check back next fall to learn how to apply for the 2014 Summer Session.