Middle Level Science (MSC)

Science and Mathematics Teaching Center

Master's of Natural Science - Middle Level Science Concentration (MSC)

 

• Mission: To deepen understanding of science concepts and environments that support teaching and learning science.

• For Who? Current teachers who would like to obtain a middle-level science endorsement and have at least 2 years of teaching experience.

• Why? The content courses can be used as professional development towards meeting the federal definition of a "highly qualified" teacher.

• When? Upon acceptance, students may begin during any summer semester. Courses are offered on a three year rotation.

---

Program Information: Master's Option

 

The Masters in Natural Science - Science program includes 30 hours of course work with a:

• Minimum of 24 hours of core courses in life sciences, physical sciences, and earth science, and in content, pedagogy & research
• 6 additional elective credits in appropriate science and or research courses
• Those without middle level teaching experience must take a 3 credit practicum course that may be included in the 6 elective credits
• Completion of a Plan B (non-thesis) or Capstone project

---

Certificate Option

 

Teachers who are interested in this program, but not in earning a master's degree may complete the UW certificate program. This includes completing the 24 hours of core courses, which results in an institutional recommendation from Uwyo to the professional teaching standards board.  More information on the completion of the certificate option.

---

Core Courses:

 

• Earth Sciences Rotation (2019, 2022)
  
  • ASTR 4000 - Astronomy for Teachers
  • NASC 5120 - Earth Science in a Global Context
  • NASC 5300 - Natural Science Assessment
  • NASC 5400- Spatial Data Instruction Technology

• Life Sciences Rotation (2017, 2020)
  
  • BOT 4790 - Field Techniques
  • ENTO 5601 - Insects for Teachers
  • NASC 5130 - Life Sciences in a Global Context
  • NASC 5660- Standards, Pedagogy and Research
  • SOC 4890 - Global Populations and Environments

• Physical Sciences Rotation (2018, 2021)
  
  • EE 4800 - Energy Policies and Impacts
  • NASC 5110 - Physical Science
  • NASC 5510 – Integrated Instructional Strategies
  • NASC 5600 - Math and Stats in Science Teaching

Classes offered on a three year rotation.  Check with SMTC to see what classes will be taught for the upcoming summer.

---

 

Application Steps: 

1.  Applications due by April 1. If this date lands on a weekend, then the deadline will be the following Monday at 5:00 p.m. 
2. Go to http://www.uwyo.edu/admissions/
3. Enter your UW username and password or start a new application. Once you have access to the Admissions website, complete all required information for a graduate application.
4. For the Program of Study choose Natural Science MS – College of Education (Middle Level Science)
5. To complete the application follow the directions on the application page.

You will need:

• • A $50 application fee

  • A current resume

  • GRE scores or a GRE Alternative Portfolio (information sent by admissions by email)

  • Three letters of recommendation – follow instructions on application

  • Transcripts from all colleges attended, must include a Bachelor’s Degree

  • A completed writing sample (questions sent by admissions)

  • Proof of MMR immunization

 If you have questions or are having any problems please contact SMTC (lgaley@uwyo.edu or 307 766.6381) or Phil Temte in admissions (pjtemte@uwyo.edu or 307 766-3868), and we will be happy to help you.

All information is either uploaded or filled in on the Admissions website.

 This program is a Gainful Employment program. Please see the following link for information about Gainful Employment programs. http://www.uwyo.edu/sfa/gainful-employment/