Master of Arts
Leads to Teacher Licensure
OVERVIEW
An Affordable Online Master’s Program Leading to a Science Teaching License
Already have a non-teaching bachelor’s degree but looking for a career change that will allows you to be a force for change? Let WGU help you become a science teacher.
Why does gravity work? How do plants reproduce? What’s the difference between an acid and a base? Science class provides the ideal environment for a great teacher to awaken a student’s appetite for knowledge.
Students will take 8 professional core courses that will prepare them to handle unique educational situations and become better teachers. These courses focus on a variety of important topics including social and emotional learning, and technology and diversity inclusion in the classroom. Plus, students will get to use augmented reality experiences to give them the opportunity to practice their work before entering the classroom. These 8 professional core courses are also coupled with preclinical experience to help ensure teachers are ready for their classroom.
A top-rated program like WGU's online Master of Arts in Teaching, Science Education degree includes preparation for certification as a middle school or high school science teacher. You'll explore creative ways to make science interesting, relevant, and fun to fuel students' curiosities and inspire their interest in earth sciences, life sciences, chemistry, physics, and the universe.
Note: The specific grade level you will be licensed to teach depends on your state. Learn more about teacher certification.
70% of students finish within
24 Months*
WGU lets you move more quickly through material you already know and advance as soon as you're ready. The result: You may finish faster.
*WGU Internal Data
Flexible Schedule
Tuition per six-month term is
$3,590
Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps you control the ultimate cost of your degree. Finish faster, pay less!
Graduates who would recommend
97%
The vast majority of alumni say WGU delivered on its promises. In fact, over 50% of students found WGU thanks to a friend's recommendation.
Admissions
Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?
Next Start Date:April 1
Start Dates the 1st of Every Month
COURSES & COMPETENCIES
Secondary Science Education Courses
A nationally recognized curriculum designed to help you become a highly qualified science teacher.
WGU’s Master of Arts in Teaching, Science Education degree program is an affordable, online degree that leads to teacher licensure. You will become a highly qualified science teacher with the in-demand credentials to play a key role in the lives of future generations of American students.
This program is made up of the following courses. Some may be waived through transfer from your previous college experience. The rest you will complete one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. You’ll work through each course as quickly as you can study and learn the material. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on. This means that you can finish as many courses as you're able in a term at no additional cost.
To ensure WGU graduates acquire the knowledge and teaching skills sought by today’s schools, our M.A. Teaching, Science Education (Secondary) degree program was developed with significant input from experts and educational leaders who serve on our Education Program Council. This program is nationally recognized by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).
The M.A. Teaching, Science Education program at WGU is a mostly online degree program that you will complete by working and studying independently with support and instruction from WGU faculty. You will be expected to complete at least 8 competency units each 6-month term. (One course is typically 3 or 4 units.)
Washington students, please note that you will be required to complete one additional course that is not listed below: Survey of Pacific Northwest History for Educators. View the Washington program guide.
Science Education
Science, Technology, and Society
Science, Technology, and Society explores the ways in which science influences and is influenced by society and technology. A humanistic and social endeavor, science serves the needs of ever-changing societies by providing methods for observing, questioning, discovering, and communicating information about the physical and natural world. This course prepares educators to explain the nature and history of science, the various applications of science, and the scientific and engineering processes used to conduct investigations, make decisions, and solve problems. There are no prerequisites for this course.
Science Methods
Science Methods provides an introduction to science teaching methods for graduate students seeking initial licensure or an additional endorsem*nt in secondary biology, chemistry, geosciences, physics, or middle grades general science. Course content focuses on the design and teaching of standards-based lessons using the three dimensions of science (science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas) and the appropriate integration of technology into those lessons. Students in this course work within their content areas to evaluate, enhance, and plan appropriate science instruction. This course includes laboratory safety training and certification, which includes safe laboratory practices and procedures for science classrooms and the proper use of personal protective equipment. Students seeking initial licensure should complete Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment before this course. There are no prerequisites for students seeking an endorsem*nt in a new content area.
Education
Educational Psychology and Human Development of Children and Adolescents
Educational Psychology and Human Development of Children and Adolescents is a key component of WGU’s Professional Core and is a required course for all Master of Arts in Teaching candidates. This course introduces candidates to research-validated theories of human development and psychology, spanning from early childhood through adolescence, and their applications in teaching practice. Candidates will explore how linguistic, physical, cognitive, and social development influence the learning process and inform educational approaches. This course will also cover appropriate instructional and assessment strategies that can be used to support learning for developmentally diverse student populations. The course will culminate in analysis of learning theories related to educational psychology in order to develop a personal educational philosophy. Candidates will engage in four hours of preclinical experiences, which include virtual classroom observations from the perspective of educational psychology and learner development. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are interwoven for further development.
Professional Core
Foundations of Education
Foundations of Education is a key component of WGU's Professional Core and is a required course for all Master of Arts in Teaching candidates. This course introduces candidates to foundational knowledge about the teaching profession in the current educational context and the historical and cultural influences on P-12 education in the United States. This course addresses important topics that affect educators today including state standards-based curriculum, legal and ethical requirements, and professionalism. This course will culminate in evidence-based, practical application of current strategies, theories, or philosophical perspectives related to becoming an effective educator within the current school context. Candidates will engage in five hours of preclinical experiences, which include virtual observations of learning environments in multiple school settings, and an interview with an educator to gain insight on how these topics affect and inform teaching practice. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are introduced for further development throughout the candidate’s programs.
Schools as Communities of Care
Schools as Communities of Care is a key component of WGU's Professional Core and is a required course for all Master of Arts in Teaching candidates. This course introduces candidates to strategies for providing a culturally inclusive learning environment that meets the social and emotional needs of learners while taking into account theories and philosophical perspectives on child and adolescent development and learning. Emphasis is placed on fostering a collaborative relationship with families, caregivers, and community stakeholders, and on leveraging community resources to support each learner’s growth and well-being to build a strong foundation for their academic and personal success. Topics addressed include culturally responsive practice, social and emotional learning (SEL), youth mental health, substance abuse, suicide awareness and prevention, abuse within families, and professional responsibilities to ensure student wellbeing. The course will culminate in evidence-based, practical application of strategies that support the whole child in a community of care. Candidates will engage in seven hours of preclinical experiences, include virtual observations of learning environments that involve parents and families in their children's education and an interview with an educational professional. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are interwoven for further development.
Essential Practices for Supporting Diverse Learners
Fundamentals of Diverse Learners is a key component of WGU's Professional Core and is a required course for all initial licensure candidates. This course prepares candidates to consider and address the wide range of learning needs in the classrooms of today. This course teaches candidates to identify and support the needs of diverse populations of learners, including, for example, students with disabilities (Including Dyslexia), students who are English language learners, and students who are gifted and talented. Practical strategies for differentiating instruction while creating a safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning environment are explored. This course helps candidates develop skills for partnering with parents and advocating for all students, particularly those impacted by provisions of IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Multitiered systems of support are addressed to prepare candidates for their future classrooms as they seek to select appropriate instructional practices and interventions to best serve their students. Candidates will engage in four hours of preclinical experiences that include a simulated teaching experience in which skills learned can be applied. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are interwoven for further development.
Creating and Managing Engaging Learning Environments
Creating and Managing Engaging Learning Environments is a key component of WGU's Professional Core and is a required course for all Master of Arts in Teaching candidates. This course provides candidates with research-based strategies and approaches to establishing and maintaining a safe and productive learning environment that supports the success and well-being of all P-12 learners. Topics addressed include consistent routines and expectations, student engagement, positive behavior support, motivation and its effect on student achievement, active learning and self-direction, and fostering a sense of community through collaboration. Candidates will design a classroom management plan for their future classroom based on theory and high-leverage practices for meeting the diverse needs of learners in a productive and collaborative learning environment. The course will culminate in evidence-based, practical application of current strategies to motivate and engage students in specific content areas. Candidates will engage in seven hours of preclinical experiences that include both virtual observations of classroom settings and time in a simulated classroom environment where theory can be put into practice. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are interwoven for further development.
Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment is a key component of WGU's Professional Core and is a required course for all Master of Arts in Teaching candidates. This course provides candidates with theoretical foundations and strategies for creating engaging and standards-aligned lessons that meet the needs of all learners in the P-12 classroom. This course focuses on the interrelationship between curriculum, instruction, and assessment, with emphasis on the role of assessment and student data in planning, designing, delivering, and modifying instruction in accordance with diverse learner needs. This course will culminate in the application of evidence-based strategies related to the interdependence of and alignment among curriculum, instruction, and assessment in student-centered P-12 teaching and learning. Candidates will engage in three hours of preclinical experiences, which include conducting virtual classroom observations and recording a short teaching segment. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are interwoven for continued development.
Assessing Student Learning
Assessing Student Learning is a key component of WGU's Professional Core and is a required course for all Master of Arts in Teaching candidates. This course provides candidates with methods and best practices for using assessment to monitor student progress and to evaluate the effectiveness of instruction. This course focuses on implementing a balanced approach to assessment using multiple assessment types such as formative, summative, standardized, and common assessments. Also covered are data literacy skills for interpreting and analyzing individual learner and classroom data to improve instruction and support academic success for all learners. The course will culminate in evidence-based, practical application of strategies for assessment practices in P-12 schools. Candidates will engage in three hours of preclinical experiences that include virtual classroom observations. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are interwoven for further development.
Using Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning
Using Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning is a key component of WGU's professional core and is a required course for all Master of Arts in Teaching candidates. This course presents strategies for integrating technology into classroom practices to improve instruction and student learning according to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards. Candidates will evaluate digital tools and their potential classroom applications such as enhancing curriculum, enabling communication with students and families, and increasing student engagement. Topics covered include ethics, equity and access to technology, and appropriate use of technology by P–12 students. Assistive technologies to meet the needs of a diverse learner population also will be addressed. The course will culminate in evidence-based, practical application of current standards, strategies, theories, or philosophical perspectives related to the use of technology in teaching and learning. Candidates will engage in three hours of preclinical experience that include virtual observations of classroom practices incorporating technology to support educational goals. Cross-cutting themes of technology and diversity are interwoven for further development.
Effective Teaching Practices
Secondary Reading Instruction and Interventions
Secondary Reading Instruction and Intervention explores the comprehensive, student-centered Response to Intervention (RTI) assessment and intervention model used to identify and address the needs of learners in middle school and high school who struggle with reading comprehension and/or information retention. Course content provides educators with effective strategies designed to scaffold instruction and help learners develop increased skill in the following areas: reading, vocabulary, text structures and genres, and logical reasoning related to the academic disciplines. This course has no prerequisites.
Secondary Disciplinary Literacy
Secondary Disciplinary Literacy examines teaching strategies designed to help learners in middle and high school improve upon the literacy skills required to read, write, and think critically while engaging content in different academic disciplines. Themes include exploring how language structures, text features, vocabulary, and context influence reading comprehension across the curriculum. Course content highlights strategies and tools designed to help teachers assess the reading comprehension and writing proficiency of learners and provides strategies to support student reading and writing success in all curriculum areas. This course has no prerequisites.
Field Experience
Preclinical Experiences in Science
Preclinical Experiences in Science provides students the opportunity to observe and participate in a wide range of in-classroom teaching experiences in order to develop the skills and confidence necessary to be an effective teacher. Students will reflect on and document the 75 hours of in-classroom observation and experience in their performance assessments. Prior to entering the classroom for the observations, students will be required to meet several requirements including a cleared background check, passing scores on the state or WGU required basic skills exam and a completed resume.
Demonstration Teaching
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science, Observations 1 and 2
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science involves a series of classroom performance observations by the host teacher and clinical supervisor that develop comprehensive performance data about the teacher candidate’s skills.This course is eligible for an In Progress grade. Please see the Grading Scale Policy for more information.
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science, Observation 3 and Midterm
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science involves a series of classroom performance observations by the host teacher and clinical supervisor that develop comprehensive performance data about the teacher candidate’s skills.This course is eligible for an In Progress grade. Please see the Grading Scale Policy for more information.
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science, Observations 4 and 5
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science involves a series of classroom performance observations by the host teacher and clinical supervisor that develop comprehensive performance data about the teacher candidate’s skills.This course is eligible for an In Progress grade. Please see the Grading Scale Policy for more information.
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science, Observation 6 and Final
Supervised Demonstration Teaching in Science involves a series of classroom performance observations by the host teacher and clinical supervisor that develop comprehensive performance data about the teacher candidate’s skills.This course is eligible for an In Progress grade. Please see the Grading Scale Policy for more information.
Teacher Performance Assessment in Science
The Teacher Performance Assessment in Science course is culmination of the wide variety of skills learned during your time in the Teachers College at WGU. In order to be a competent and independent classroom teacher, you will showcase a collection of your content, planning, instructional, and reflective skills.This course is eligible for an In Progress grade. Please see the Grading Scale Policy for more information.
Professional Portfolio
Professional Portfolio requires candidates to create an online teaching portfolio that demonstrates professional beliefs, growth, and effective teaching practices from the Demonstration Teaching experience. The portfolio includes reflective essays (educational beliefs, professional growth, and collaboration with stakeholders) and professional artifacts (resume and artifacts with commentary on academic language, systems of student support, education technology, and professional communication with families) developed and acquired during Demonstration Teaching.This course is eligible for an In Progress grade. Please see the Grading Scale Policy for more information.
Cohort Seminar
Cohort Seminar provides mentoring and supports teacher candidates during their demonstration teaching period by providing weekly collaboration and instruction related to the demonstration teaching experience. It facilitates their demonstration of competence in becoming reflective practitioners, adhering to ethical standards, practicing inclusion in a diverse classroom, exploring community resources, building collegial and collaborative relationships with teachers, and considering leadership and supervisory skills.This course is eligible for an In Progress grade. Please see the Grading Scale Policy for more information.
20 Courses
Program consists of 20 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
Professional Portfolio
Special requirements for this program
You will complete a professional portfolio, which will include your résumé and Philosophy of Teaching Statement and serve as a way to showcase the skills you have acquired throughout your degree program and Demonstration Teaching.
“After being a substitute teacher for many years, I knew it was what I wanted long term. I already had a bachelor's degree in science but would need to gain a teaching license as well. The master's program at WGU was perfect because it was all online and worked with me trying to juggle two jobs.”
—Emily Koester
M.A. Teaching, Science Education (Secondary)
Why WGU?
You Aren't On Your Own
WGU has Program Mentors who work with you from the day you start, all the way through graduation. They help you set up your Demonstration Teaching, learn about teaching certification in your state, and more. You're not alone when you choose an online degree at WGU.
On Your Schedule
Students choose WGU for this online science education degree program because of its flexibility. Whether you already have a full-time job, have responsibilities as a parent, or just have a busy schedule, WGU can work for you.
Licensure In Any State
WGU's online secondary science education degree prepares you for a teaching license in any state in the United States. It's valuable to learn the other requirements in your state to know the full process for gaining licensure.
Accredited, Respected,
Recognized™
One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.
COST & TIME
When We Say Affordable We Mean It
By charging per six-month term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.
Tuition Calculator
Pay less by completing your program faster
TOTAL COST:
$
.
5
1
1
.
5
2
2
.
5
3
3
.
5
4
YEARS
Cost Breakdown
A Master's Degree Is Within Reach
There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:
The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.
*WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to theInstitute for College Access and Success (2022).
Responsible Borrowing Initiative
Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits.
Financial Aid
Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.
Scholarships
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
A Different Way to Learn: Degree Programs Designed to Fit Your Life—and All the Demands on Your Time
Professional responsibilities. Family obligations. Personal commitments. At WGU, we understand schedules are tight and often unpredictable for adult students. That’s why we offer a flexible, personalized approach to how education should be. No rigid class schedules. Just a solid, career-focused teaching program that meshes with your current lifestyle. You'll be challenged. You'll work hard.But if you commit yourself and put in the hours needed, WGU makes it possible for you to earn a highly respected degree as a busy working adult.
"You feel like family with this institution, so much support and help from all the amazing, highly qualified course instructors. My anchor through all of this was my amazing mentor, Holly. I won't forget her or all the amazing people along my path to my master's degree.”
—Shawn Burner
M.A. Teaching, Science Education (Secondary)
CAREER OUTLOOK
Inspire Tomorrow's Engineers, Space Explorers, and Computer Experts. Become a Science Teacher!
An inquisitive mind. Passion for all things scientific. The desire to embolden students to explore what we know today—and learn to use it as a catalyst to consider new possibilities. If you possess these traits, maybe your calling in life is to become a science teacher.
Science teachers are in short supply—and high demand—nationwide. For non-teaching professionals with a bachelor’s degree and a desire to shift career tracks to a rewarding career as a science teacher, a Master of Arts in Teaching degree is the path to teacher certification, the salary and career benefits of a graduate degree, and the satisfaction of a career that truly makes a difference.
Return on Your Investment
5%
Employment of all high school teachers is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
WGU Has Alumni Teaching in Schools Across the Country
Graduates of WGU's online Teachers College have found meaningful, rewarding teaching careers in classrooms at:
- Inclusionary K–12 classrooms
- Middle/junior high schools
- High schools
- Private and charter schools
Impressive Class of Graduates
Graduates of the WGU Teachers College include recipients of many professional honors, including:
- Gates Millennium Scholars
- Intel Grant for Mathematics and Technology
- Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction Award
- Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award
- Association of Public Charter Schools Educator of the Year Award
ADMISSIONS
Master of Teaching, Science Education Admission Requirements
To be considered eligible for enrollment into this M.A. in Teaching, Science Education degree program, you must provide official transcripts that demonstrate you have earned a bachelor’s degree from a recognized, institutionally accredited (also known as regionally accredited) university AND demonstrate readiness through one of the following:
- Option 1: Content-related undergraduate or graduate degree with GPA of at least 2.5 (or higher, depending upon your state).
- Option 2: Undergraduate or graduate degree with GPA of at least 2.5 (or higher, depending upon your state) and 24-30 hours of content specific coursework, equivalent to a major.
- Option 3: Undergraduate or graduate degree with GPA of at least 2.0 (or higher, depending upon your state), a passing score on the WGU program required basic skills test (e.g., Praxis CORE) and demonstrate content competency via one of the following pathways 1) 24-30 hours of content specific coursework, equivalent to a major OR 2) an undergraduate or graduate degree in a content-related area to which area of program you are seeking admission.
Students who are seeking initial teacher licensure in a bachelor’s, post-baccalaureate, or master’s program must also pass a state-specific basic skills test for the state in which they live as a prerequisite to Demonstration Teaching (student teaching). (Registering and paying for the test is the student’s responsibility.) This requirement can be met either prior to admission or before beginning the Foundations of Teaching subject area once you are in your WGU program.
WGU’s teacher licensure programs also include Demonstration Teaching (student teaching). You must be at least 18 years of age before you may begin the application process or participate in Preclinical Experiences and Demonstration Teaching. You must also submit to a criminal background check prior to entering the classroom for this component of your program.
Get Your Enrollment Checklist
Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.
Get Your Questions Answered
Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.
MORE DETAILS
Becoming a Licensed Teacher
State-specific licensure requirements: Each state in the U.S. has specific testing requirements that must be met or completed in addition to completing your teaching degree program at WGU. Teacher licensure requirements vary depending on state laws and may include a number of factors, such as:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree program
- Submission of transcripts
- Completion and clearance of a background check
- Passing of required entrance exams and basic skills tests
Preclinical Experiences
As part of this program, you'll participate in a wide range of in-classroom teaching experiences through at least 75 hours of in-classroom observation.
Demonstration Teaching
To help you prepare to work in classrooms, this program includes a student teaching component (we call it Demonstration Teaching, or DT). DT is a full-time, supervised, in-classroom experience of a minimum of 12–20 weeks during which you will be hosted by an experienced teacher and observed by a Clinical Supervisor. Your host teacher will evaluate your performance based on accepted professional standards. Learn more.
More About the M.A. in Teaching, Science Education
More About Teacher Licensure
More About Paying for School
It depends on your state and which Teachers College program you complete, so it is best to ask your Enrollment Counselor. Typically, teachers with an elementary education license can teach anywhere from kindergarten through 8th grade, and secondary teachers in math, English, or science can teach anywhere from 5th to 12th grades. K–12 special education licenses typically enable teachers to work with students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
It depends on your state and your program, but for most Teachers College programs, Demonstration Teaching is typically about the length of one full traditional school semester. DT is a minimum of 12–16 weeks, but it can be longer in other programs.
WGU has a team that works with you to connect you with schools in your area, and with host teachers that will support you through your Demonstration Teaching.
Your Enrollment Counselor can provide more details about your specific situation. While you can provide recommendations of a school you want to be placed in, generally, our Field Placement Office will be selecting and setting up the placement in the end.
Your Enrollment Counselor has access to an up-to-date database that tracks requirements and eligibility for all WGU programs and all US states and territories, so a conversation with your Enrollment Counselor can quickly verify this for you based on where you live and your desired program.
The $65 application fee is waived for Per Scholas alumni and employees. Use the waiver code "PERSCHOLAS".
All Per Scholas alumni and employeeswill receive a 5% discount ontuitionby communicating with your Enrollment Counselorthat you are a Per Scholas alumni.
Per Scholas and WGU are actively working to secure scholarships for Per Scholas alumni.Seegeneral WGU scholarships here. Per Scholas employees should inquire about tuitionbenefits packages within their company’s Human Resources department.
If you carry debt from any previous college or defaulted student loans, this does notnecessarily preclude you from enrolling at WGU. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor atWGU about financial considerations as you move forward with your application.
There is a one-time program fee and resource fee that students pay upon enrollment at WGU. There are no additional book or lab fees associated with the courses.Students will need to have stable internet access in order to do the coursework. Pleaserefer to the applicable WGU program page for more information.
Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?