Online Master’s Degrees in Science Education: Finding a Program

Are you a science teacher thinking about going for your master’s degree? You’re not alone: over half of U.S. public school teachers now hold a master’s degree. An online Master of Education (MEd) in Science Education can deepen your subject expertise, increase your confidence in the classroom, and boost your salary. In this OMD guide, you’ll explore flexible, accredited online programs that let you grow your career without leaving your job. Let’s get started.

Author: Shannon Lee

Editor: Michael Hoffman

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We’ve profiled below three online science education master’s programs currently offered. Each has its own strengths in format, curriculum, and student support. We’ve summarized key program details to help you compare those options that best fit your academic and career goals.

North Carolina State University — MEd in STEM Education (Science)

North Carolina State’s online MEd in STEM Education (Science Education concentration) is a 30-credit program tailored for current science teachers in grades 6–12. All coursework is delivered online through NC State’s WolfWare platform, with interactive components like video lectures, discussion forums, and collaborative projects.

The curriculum includes one shared core class in STEM education and specialized science education courses that deepen your content knowledge and pedagogical skills. You’ll choose electives in areas such as biology, environmental science, and chemistry education to suit your particular teaching interests.

The program meets North Carolina’s requirements for advanced teaching licensure and supports students pursuing National Board Certification.

Duration: Two years full-time; three to four 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 on bachelor’s coursework
  • Valid teaching license or equivalent experience in education (preferred for advanced licensure track)
  • Application submittals include three letters of recommendation and personal statement

University of Georgia — MEd in Science Education

The online MEd in Science Education from the University of Georgia focuses on secondary science teaching and learning for grades 6–12 — deepening teacher understanding of science pedagogy and research-based teaching practices. The 36-credit curriculum emphasizes the integration of disciplinary core ideas with scientific practices and crosscutting concepts aligned with NGSS standards.

Graduates qualify for a teaching certification upgrade in Georgia and many other states. UGA provides robust support for online learners, including access to digital libraries, technical support, and career services.

Duration: Two 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 science field (middle or secondary level) is strongly recommended
  • Application submittals include resume, three letters of recommendation, and 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 online program aimed at licensed teachers who want to add a middle-grades science endorsement. This program stands out for its self-paced format and affordability.

Instead of traditional credit hours, WGU’s curriculum is divided into 14 courses covering broad science content (biology, chemistry, physics, earth science) and effective science teaching methods. Students progress by demonstrating mastery of each subject through assessments and projects, which means they can accelerate their studies for certain course topics.

The learning experience is entirely online and asynchronous, but you’ll work one-on-one with a program mentor throughout your course of study. Graduates are prepared to teach general science at the junior high/middle school level.

Duration: Self-paced; 18 months for most students.

Mode: Fully online

Cost: $4,125 per 6-month term (flat rate)

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Current teaching license (or evidence of prior licensure) in a K–12 field
  • Verification of your background in science typically through previous coursework in science or teacher licensure in a related subject
  • Because this program adds a middle-grade science endorsement, applicants should be prepared to eventually seek the additional licensure.

Understanding Cost: Pricing the Online Science Education MEd

The cost of an online MEd in Science Education can vary widely by institution. Generally, you should consider three factors: total credit requirements, tuition per credit, and additional fees and costs.

With a few exceptions, tuition is charged on a per-credit basis. Public universities generally charge the most affordable tuition rates for in-state residents. Out-of-state resident rates may be much higher. However, some public schools offer in-state rates to out-of-state students in online programs. Private colleges and universities tend to charge higher tuition than public schools (there are some exceptions), but rates are the same for all students regardless of state residence status.

The table below gives a snapshot of current tuition costs for three online science education master’s programs. Bear in mind that these figures do not take into account additional program fees and the costs of such things as books and materials, a computer, internet access, etc., which you’ll want to factor into your total program cost. 

And remember that qualifying students will be able to mitigate their master’s price tags through any of several financial aid resources. Popular financial aid types for online master’s students include scholarships, grants, and (most popular of all) student loans. Teacher tuition discounts and employer tuition assistance opportunities are also often available for science education master’s students.

SchoolNo. of CreditsCost per CreditTotal Tuition
North Carolina State University30$546.50$16,395
University of Georgia36$427$15,372
Northeastern State University36$290.92$10,473.12

FAQs from Prospective Science Education Master’s Students

Why is accreditation important for an online MEd in Science Education?


Proper accreditation ensures your program meets academic standards of quality recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. A degree from an accredited program is taken seriously by employers and state licensing boards. And proper accreditation is almost always required to obtain financial aid.

Always verify that each school you consider is regionally accredited. You’ll also want to check for program-specific accreditation in education. For example, colleges of education (and therefore their degree programs) are often NCATE/CAEP accredited as well.

Can I work full-time while earning my MEd in Science Education online?


In most cases, yes. In fact, most online MEd students are working teachers. Online programs are built to be flexible for educators’ schedules. You can typically watch lectures and complete assignments during evenings and weekends. And many programs are offered part-time with students taking just one or two courses per semester. Time management is key. But with dedication and a solid study schedule, you can successfully pursue your science education master’s while continuing to teach full time.

How long does it take to complete an online science education master’s?


Most online MEd in Science Education programs take about 1 1⁄2 to two years to complete. The exact time depends on the specific program and your chosen study pace. Part-time students typically take one to two classes per semester and finish all degree requirements in about two years, sometimes more. Full-time programs feature completion times of around 16 to 20 months. And accelerated formats may allow for degree completion in as little as 12 months. In short, about two years is a good benchmark for completing an online MEd degree, but program lengths can be quite flexible.

Do I need to be a licensed teacher or have a science background to apply?


Requirements vary by program, but many online MEd in Science Education programs are geared toward currently-licensed teachers. It’s common that programs expect you to hold a teaching license and/or have teaching experience, especially since the coursework is often about applying concepts in a classroom setting. That said, not all programs absolutely require a teaching license. Some admit students with a strong science background who aspire to teach or move into education roles outside of the classroom.

In summary, most MEd in Science Ed applicants are licensed science teachers or educators. If you’re not, though, be sure to check specific admission criteria for alternative pathways or conditional admission for applicants without a license.

Can I pursue a doctoral degree in science education once I’ve earned my MEd?


Since a master’s in science education is almost always required for admission into a science education doctorate program, it’s very possible. There are two doctoral degree types available. The PhD in Science Education offers a research-based curriculum to prepare graduates to fill top-level advanced research and postsecondary teaching positions. The EdD in Science Education, on the other hand, is designed to prepare graduates to fill top roles in school and instructional leadership and curriculum development.


After Graduation: What Can You Do with a MEd in Science Education?

Graduating with an MEd in Science Education, you’ll find that you have enhanced expertise and credentials that qualify you for a variety of professional positions. Most graduates continue to teach, but taking additional roles (like mentoring other teachers, leading science curriculum planning, or trying innovative teaching methods in their classrooms) is quite common.

Many MEd grads become science department heads or curriculum specialists. If you love working with fellow educators, you might move into an instructional coordinator job training teachers on best practices in science education. Some educators use the MEd as a springboard into administration, pursuing positions as principals or assistant principals.

Outside of K-12 schools, opportunities for science education MEd grads may include employment as education program directors at science museums, zoos, or nonprofit organizations that run STEM outreach. If you’re interested in higher education, community colleges sometimes hire MEd graduates as instructors for science or education courses. Overall, a Master’s in Science Education equips you with the knowledge, credibility, and leadership skills to advance along multiple career paths.

Here’s a look at five common occupations for MEd in Science Education degree holders:

CareerProjected GrowthMedian PayTop 10% Pay
Instructional Coordinators (Curriculum Specialists)2%$74,620$109,500
High School Teachers (Secondary Science Teacher)–1% $65,220$106,380
School Principals (K-12)–1% $103,460$163,010
Postsecondary Teachers (e.g. Community College Instructor)8% $84,380$182,710
Training & Development Managers (Corporate Training Director)7%$125,040$220,060

Resources for Science Education Students & Professionals


Ranking the Best Online MEd Programs in Science Education

Below is our list of the top online MEd in Science Education programs currently offered. Our ranking methodology draws on data from the U.S. Department of Education and over 7,700 colleges nationwide. We’ve compared programs by considering key criteria that matter most to students, including affordability (tuition rates and availability of financial aid), flexibility of online learning, accreditation status, and access to quality student support services (academic advising, career counseling, tech support, etc.). Read on to discover which programs made the cut.

About the ranking
1
Athens, Georgia
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

The University of Georgia's online MEd in science education is specifically tailored toward grades 6-12 educators. Because students come to this program with a strong, subject-specific background in science education, the curriculum allows students to dive deep into the specifics of teaching natural sciences at the secondary level. Most students are working educators, so coursework is designed with maximum flexibility. Full-time and part-time options are available, along with a robust selection of summer classes to allow students to take on additional coursework when they are not teaching.

Program Highlights:

Master of Education (MEd) in Science Education

  • Credits: 36
  • Length: Two years
  • Mode: Fullyonline
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
2
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

The online STEM education program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) offers ample opportunities for specialization by science and math educators in grades 7-12. The program's integrated track prepares students to work across disciplines while also pursuing an emphasis in biology, chemistry, mathematics, or physics/physical sciences. Alternatively, current or aspiring chemistry teachers can opt for an intensive option that focuses on depth of knowledge. Students can complete coursework that qualifies them to teach dual-credit classes. Regardless of specialty, the curriculum emphasizes subject knowledge, curriculum development, and strategies for effective teaching.

Program Highlights:

Online STEM Education Program, Master of Science in Education

  • Credits: 36
  • Length: Two years
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: CAEP

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
3
Bozeman, Montana
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

Montana State University (MSU) has a unique MS in Science Education that combines the convenience and flexibility of online learning with hands-on experience, fostering students' expertise in both the theoretical and practical elements of the field. Students complete most of their coursework online over a two- to three-year period. Before graduation, students have the opportunity to travel to MSU during the summer for a capstone research project that incorporates field and lab components. MSU's curriculum emphasizes fostering scientific inquiry across subjects, developing curriculum based on Next Generation Science Standards, and applying the action-research model in classrooms. Notably, MSU accepts both formal and informal science educators, bringing a diverse range of experiences, goals, and perspectives into every classroom.

Program Highlights:

Master of Science in Science Education

  • Credits: 30
  • Length: Two to three years
  • Mode: Partially Online
  • Accreditation: CAEP

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation NWCCU
4
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
5
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
6
Greenville, North Carolina
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
7
Atlanta, Georgia
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
8
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation NECHE
9
Shippensburg, Pennsylvania
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation MSCHE
10
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Type:
Public
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
11
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
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