Are you a science teacher thinking about earning your master’s degree? An online Master of Education (MEd) in Science Education can help you deepen your subject expertise, build confidence in the classroom, and potentially increase your salary. In this guide, you’ll explore flexible, accredited online programs designed to support working teachers — so you can grow professionally without leaving your job.
Author: Shannon Lee
Expertise: Graduate EducationCareer DevelopmentOnline LearningEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Which Student Are You?
What Science Education Program Path Matches Your Goals?
Read more - Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Salary/Pay
A look at how much I can expect to earn after graduation...
Read more - Top Schools
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state…
Read more
What Science Education Program Path Matches Your Goals?
If you teach or want to teach science, your master’s options split between general licensure programs, subject-specific tracks like biology or chemistry education, and STEM coordinator paths that move you out of the classroom. Guess wrong and you’ll be retaking coursework later. See which science education persona below matches the classroom, subject-specific, or coordinator path you’re aiming for.
Science Education Students: Which Type Is Most Like You?
The Career Starter
You have a strong science background and want the fastest path to becoming a licensed secondary science teacher.
An initial-licensure science education program bundles teaching methods and classroom/lab management coursework with the supervised student teaching your state requires, using the science content knowledge you already have. A hybrid format keeps lab and methods courses in person while letting some coursework happen online.
The Career Changer
You’re a lab scientist, engineer, or other STEM professional switching into teaching and want a program built for career-changers that leads to a real science teaching license.
Career-changer tracks are specifically designed for applicants with a strong science or STEM background but no education degree, layering pedagogy and licensure exam prep onto content expertise you already have. A fully online format lets you complete coursework around a current job before your student teaching placement begins.
The Promotion Seeker
You’re a licensed science teacher who wants to move into instructional coaching, STEM program leadership, or department chair.
Advanced, non-licensure coursework goes deeper into STEM curriculum design, grant-funded program leadership, and coaching than an initial-licensure program covers — exactly what a department chair or STEM coordinator role requires. A hybrid format fits around your current teaching and lab-prep schedule.
The Working Balancer
You’re teaching science full-time and want to finish your master’s — often for license renewal or a pay increase — without missing time in your own classroom.
A fully online, part-time program with summer and evening options fits the school-year schedule science teachers actually have, letting you make progress over breaks instead of during the school day. Many states also tie salary increases directly to a completed master’s.
The STEM Program Lead
You want to lead STEM initiatives across a school or district — grant-funded programs, science fairs, cross-curricular projects — rather than teach in just one classroom.
Coursework in STEM program design and grant-funded initiative management prepares you for the coordinator roles many districts have created to run cross-curricular STEM programming. A hybrid format fits around your current teaching schedule while you build this specialization.
The Museum Science Educator
You want to teach science outside the K-12 classroom — in museums, science centers, zoos, or nature centers — where a state teaching license isn’t required.
A non-licensure concentration frees up coursework for informal science education settings — exhibit-based teaching, outreach programs, public science communication — that a licensure-focused program doesn’t cover. This path also keeps career options open beyond public schools, into museums, science centers, and environmental education organizations.
Inside 3 Popular Online Science Education MEd Programs
Below, we profile three online science education master’s programs currently available. Each offers a different approach to format, curriculum, and student support.
We’ve highlighted key program details to help you compare options and identify the programs that best align with your academic goals and teaching career.
North Carolina State University — MEd in STEM Education (Science)
North Carolina State University’s online MEd in STEM Education (Science concentration) is a 30-credit program designed for current science teachers in grades 6–12. All coursework is delivered online through NC State’s WolfWare platform and includes interactive elements including video lectures, discussion forums, collaborative projects.
The curriculum features:
- One shared core course in STEM education
- Specialized science education courses focused on pedagogy and content mastery
- Electives in areas such as biology, environmental science, and chemistry education
This program meets North Carolina requirements for advanced teaching licensure and supports teachers pursuing National Board Certification.
Program Details
- Duration: 2 years (full-time) | 3-4 years (part-time)
- Mode: 100% online
- Cost: $546.50/credit (in-state) | $1,700.56/credit (out-of-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a science or science education field
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Valid teaching license or equivalent education experience (preferred for licensure track)
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
University of Georgia — MEd in Science Education
The University of Georgia’s online MEd in Science Education focuses on secondary science instruction (grades 6–12) and emphasizes research-based teaching practices. The 36-credit curriculum integrates:
- Disciplinary core ideas
- Scientific practices
- Crosscutting concepts aligned with NGSS standards
Graduates qualify for a teaching certification upgrade in Georgia and many other states. Online students also receive access to career services, digital libraries, and technical support.
Program Details
- Duration: 2 years (part-time) | Full-time study is also available
- Mode: Fully online, with optional on-campus workshops
- Cost: $427/credit (in-state) | $1,182/credit (out-of-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college
- Minimum 2.6 GPA
- Teaching certification in a middle or secondary science field
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
Western Governors University — M.A. in Science Education (Middle Grades)
Western Governors University’s M.A. in Science Education (Middle Grades) is a competency-based, fully online program designed for licensed teachers seeking a middle-grade science endorsement. Instead of traditional credit hours, the curriculum consists of 14 competency-based courses covering biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and effective science teaching strategies.
Students progress by demonstrating mastery through assessments and projects, allowing many to accelerate their studies. Key features include:
- Fully online, asynchronous learning
- One-on-one support from a dedicated program mentor
- Preparation for teaching general science at the middle school level
Program Details
- Duration: Self-paced; about 18 months for most students
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost: $4,125 per six-month term (flat rate)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Current or prior K-12 teaching license
- Verification of science background (via coursework or licensure)
Because this program leads to a middle-grade science endorsement, graduates should be prepared to pursue additional licensure as required by their state.
Cost of Online Science Education MEd Programs
The cost of an online MEd in Science Education varies widely by institution. In general, three factors influence total cost:
- Total credit requirements
- Tuition per credit (or term)
- Additional fees and materials
Most programs charge tuition on a per-credit basis. Public universities often offer the lowest rates for in-state students, though some extend in-state pricing to online learners nationwide. Private institutions typically charge higher tuition but apply the same rate regardless of residency.
Keep in mind that tuition figures usually exclude additional costs, such as:
- Books and course materials
- Technology requirements
- Internet access
Financial aid can help offset these costs. Common options for online master’s students include:
- Scholarships and grants
- Student loans
- Teacher tuition discounts
- Employer tuition assistance
| School | Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina State University | 30 | $546.50 | $16,395 |
| University of Georgia | 36 | $427 | $15,372 |
| Northeastern State University | 36 | $290.92 | $10,473.12 |
FAQs from Prospective Science Education Master’s Students
Why is accreditation important for an online MEd in Science Education?
Accreditation ensures your program meets recognized academic quality standards. Degrees from accredited institutions are trusted by employers and state licensing boards and are typically required for financial aid eligibility.
Always confirm that a school is regionally accredited, and look for program-level accreditation (such as CAEP) within colleges of education.
Can I work full-time while earning my MEd in Science Education online?
In most cases, yes. Online MEd programs are designed for working teachers and offer flexible schedules. Coursework is often asynchronous, allowing you to complete assignments during evenings or weekends.
Many students enroll part-time, taking one or two courses per semester. With strong time management, it’s very possible to balance full-time teaching and graduate study.
How long does it take to complete an online science education master’s?
Most programs take about 1½ to 2 years to complete. Timing depends on:
- Program structure
- Full-time vs. part-time enrollment
- Accelerated or competency-based formats
As a general benchmark, two years is a realistic expectation, though some students finish sooner or take longer.
Do I need to be a licensed teacher or have a science background to apply?
Many programs are designed for currently licensed science teachers, especially since coursework often involves classroom application. However, not all programs require licensure.
Some admit students with strong science backgrounds who plan to move into teaching or related education roles. Always review program-specific admissions criteria for alternative pathways.
Can I pursue a doctoral degree in science education once I’ve earned my MEd?
Yes. A master’s degree is typically required for admission into doctoral programs in science education.
- A PhD in Science Education emphasizes research and postsecondary teaching
- An EdD in Science Education focuses on leadership, curriculum development, and instructional administration
Science Education Salary Potential with a Master’s Degree
A master’s in science education deepens your content expertise and pedagogical skills in STEM fields, positioning you for classroom leadership, curriculum development, and science coaching roles. Graduates teach biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science at the secondary level — and many move into department leadership, instructional coaching, or curriculum development. Science educators are in consistent demand, particularly in STEM-focused schools and districts.
Science teachers are among the more sought-after educators, and some districts offer additional compensation or incentives for STEM credentials. Earnings follow district salary schedules, with advanced degrees often qualifying teachers for higher pay steps.
Use the salary table below to explore secondary teacher earnings by state, and see how science education pay compares in your area.
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
| Area | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $72,040 | $92,570 | $107,600 |
| Alabama | $61,990 | $72,470 | $76,300 |
| Alaska | $79,650 | $97,880 | $98,140 |
| Arizona | $58,360 | $64,890 | $93,530 |
| Arkansas | $59,660 | $62,270 | $75,760 |
| California | $101,370 | $125,920 | $132,600 |
| Colorado | $72,900 | $83,790 | $101,300 |
| Connecticut | $80,970 | $101,260 | $113,610 |
| Delaware | $77,960 | $82,460 | $95,220 |
| District of Columbia | $82,750 | $102,320 | $128,170 |
| Florida | $60,410 | $64,770 | $77,100 |
| Georgia | $75,480 | $79,240 | $96,820 |
| Hawaii | $74,310 | $81,220 | $98,360 |
| Idaho | $61,690 | $78,280 | $91,620 |
| Illinois | $79,990 | $104,670 | $135,960 |
| Indiana | $61,880 | $77,430 | $95,070 |
| Iowa | $61,200 | $73,970 | $79,270 |
| Kansas | $59,920 | $64,160 | $76,230 |
| Kentucky | $61,560 | $75,290 | $83,310 |
| Louisiana | $59,850 | $62,580 | $79,720 |
| Maine | $64,880 | $79,920 | $83,450 |
| Maryland | $78,670 | $98,690 | $102,690 |
| Massachusetts | $95,260 | $102,530 | $122,660 |
| Michigan | $66,030 | $81,230 | $98,720 |
| Minnesota | $76,460 | $97,400 | $121,220 |
| Mississippi | $50,980 | $60,360 | $62,850 |
| Missouri | $59,240 | $71,000 | $79,300 |
| Montana | $60,990 | $74,470 | $81,270 |
| Nebraska | $63,450 | $76,070 | $78,510 |
| Nevada | $65,520 | $83,190 | $83,190 |
| New Hampshire | $77,060 | $81,980 | $96,510 |
| New Jersey | $82,200 | $102,410 | $108,230 |
| New Mexico | $75,900 | $79,550 | $84,170 |
| New York | $97,070 | $131,980 | $136,450 |
| North Carolina | $57,650 | $60,740 | $64,460 |
| North Dakota | $61,210 | $74,400 | $81,310 |
| Ohio | $78,800 | $97,520 | $103,150 |
| Oklahoma | $48,710 | $59,720 | $71,650 |
| Oregon | $79,570 | $96,140 | $101,310 |
| Pennsylvania | $78,800 | $92,980 | $102,360 |
| Rhode Island | $92,610 | $97,230 | $100,370 |
| South Carolina | $62,580 | $76,600 | $80,700 |
| South Dakota | $51,050 | $59,500 | $62,040 |
| Tennessee | $61,860 | $73,740 | $79,180 |
| Texas | $63,590 | $73,720 | $78,020 |
| Utah | $76,330 | $83,410 | $98,730 |
| Vermont | $76,220 | $80,510 | $99,830 |
| Virginia | $72,170 | $83,820 | $107,930 |
| Washington | $102,670 | $121,100 | $128,410 |
| West Virginia | $56,610 | $60,870 | $64,040 |
| Wisconsin | $62,870 | $77,420 | $83,340 |
| Wyoming | $62,690 | $74,950 | $78,830 |
Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes252031.htm
Showing 1 – 10 of 52 entries | Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Resources for Online Science Education MEd Students
- Edutopia (Science) — Teacher-written articles on project-based learning, lab management, and classroom strategies
- Khan Academy (Science) — Free lessons and practice in biology, chemistry, physics, and more
- Lab Out Loud — Blog and podcast exploring science education trends and classroom innovation
- NASA: For Educators — Lesson plans, activities, and real-world science data for K–12 classrooms
- National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) — Professional development, journals, webinars, and networking
- Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) — Official standards, implementation guides, and classroom resources
- PBS LearningMedia (Science) — Multimedia lessons and interactive science content
- PhET Interactive Simulations — Hands-on science and math simulations with teacher guides
- Science Friday: Educate — Free STEM activities connected to current science news
- STEM Teaching Tools — Research-based practice briefs to strengthen STEM instruction
Ranking the Best Online MEd Programs in Science Education
CUNY Hunter College
Best for: working students
Liberty University
Best for: advancement-focused students
CUNY Brooklyn College
Best for: working students
SUNY Brockport
Best for: working students
University of West Alabama
Best for: working students
SUNY College at Potsdam
Best for: working students
Mercy University
Best for: working students
Georgia Southern University
Best for: working students
SUNY Buffalo State University
Best for: working students
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Best for: advancement-focused students
