PHD, Science Education

Degree Program Summary:

Doctoral programs in Science Education are very much individualized, because our doctoral students have a great variety of academic and professional backgrounds and career goals. Ph.D graduates most often take jobs in higher education, teaching education courses and possibly some introductory science courses, and usually maintaining an ongoing program of research in science education. In consultation with a Major Professor and three or four other faculty who form a doctoral committee, the student selects courses and plans a program of other experiences suitable for her or his needs. Previous academic preparation, teaching and research experience, and the program Admission Screening Committee’s recommendations are considered in the design of each student’s program requirements. A broadly based core of proficiencies is gained through the Science Education program’s graduate courses as well as courses in other departments and programs (e.g., Educational Research, Qualitative Research, Educational Psychology, Social Foundations of Education, Instructional Technology, and the various Arts and Sciences). Many proficiencies in the candidate’s area of concentration are gained through formal internships (both in teaching and research), special courses, independent research projects, and, often, paid assistantship duties. These are guided by the candidate’s Major Professor or other faculty and are often carried out in conjunction with existing research, development and instructional activities of program faculty. The program culminates in a doctoral dissertation study that is of unique interest to the individual student and may employ any of a wide variety of research methods.

Recognized as a national research leader in the fields of mathematics and science education, this department combines the expertise of its internationally known faculty with the energy and innovation of its rising young scholars. The Science Education Program is committed to improving science curriculum and instruction at all levels, preschool through college and beyond. The program is determined to expand knowledge of teaching and learning, to disseminate this knowledge and to put existing knowledge to use in various educational settings.