Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education)
Hours: 33 Online
About
The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) at Fort Hays State University focuses on curriculum and instruction in STEM. It is available for educators who aim to strengthen their expertise in STEM subjects. Designed for elementary and secondary teachers, this online program enhances instructional skills by integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Courses cover essential topics like instructional design, technology integration, and cultural diversity, providing educators with strategies to engage diverse learners. The program's flexible online format accommodates working professionals, allowing them to balance their studies with their teaching careers.
Why pursue a Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) at Fort Hays State University?
Choosing Fort Hays State University's Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) program offers educators the flexibility and support they need to advance their careers without compromising their current teaching positions.
The program's curriculum is adaptable to diverse educational settings, making graduates well-prepared for various roles, including STEM coordinators, lead teachers, and curriculum specialists. With the support of experienced faculty and practical resources, FHSU equips its students to become leaders in STEM education.
Who is this program for?
The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) program suits educators passionate about advancing their knowledge and skills in STEM subjects. Educators interested in gaining additional certifications in STEM areas through Praxis preparation will find this program particularly beneficial. This includes:
- Current teachers seeking advanced STEM teaching skills
- Educators interested in additional STEM endorsements
- Professionals aiming to take on curriculum development roles
- Teachers wanting to integrate technology into their classrooms
- Individuals aspiring to become leaders in STEM education
Real-World Applications
The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) program emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications, enabling graduates to implement STEM-based activities effectively within their classrooms. Students engage in coursework focused on instructional design and technology integration, which prepares them to handle the unique challenges of STEM teaching directly.
Students also prepare to play leadership roles in STEM initiatives within their schools. The program's action research component trains educators to address real-world challenges, making them valuable assets for improving curriculum and student learning.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
FHSU ensures that the Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) students stay current with advancements in STEM education by integrating the latest technology and teaching strategies into the curriculum. Courses like "Innovative Technology Integration" allow students to explore new digital tools, providing them with up-to-date resources that can be applied immediately in their classrooms.
The program also offers STEM-specific electives and Praxis preparation options, enabling teachers to expand their certifications and adapt to the evolving demands of STEM education. By preparing educators with the latest instructional methods and content knowledge, FHSU ensures its graduates remain competitive and effective.
Practical Activities
Practical learning is central to the Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) program. Students participate in practical application courses and action research, allowing them to tackle real challenges within their classrooms.
The program emphasizes applied projects and experiential learning opportunities like instructional design and student engagement courses. These interactive components enable students to test and refine their teaching strategies in real-world settings, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
What You’ll Learn:
- Principles of instructional design and assessment
- Innovative STEM teaching strategies
- Educational research techniques
- Curriculum development and evaluation
- Cultural diversity in education
How You’ll Learn:
- Fully online courses for flexible learning
- Practical projects in STEM instructional methods
- Action research opportunities
- Praxis preparation for STEM endorsements
- Interactive online resources and collaboration
The Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) program's core curriculum includes essential courses in instructional design, educational research, and cultural diversity. Courses like How People Learn and Teach STEM provide educators with insights into effective STEM teaching practices.
At the same time, Innovative Technology Integration helps teachers incorporate the latest digital tools into their classrooms. In addition to the core curriculum, students can choose from various approved electives, including Praxis preparation courses for additional STEM endorsements in chemistry, physics, and biology.
AEP 803: Educational Research
This course explores the complexities of educational research, emphasizing both traditional and electronic resources. Students will learn key research concepts, including identifying, defining, and writing a research proposal. An approved educational project is required for course completion.
AEP 859: Curriculum and Evaluation of PK-12 Schools
This course is designed to help prospective educational leaders develop a foundational understanding of curriculum development and evaluation. Key topics include the steps for revising or developing system-wide curricula, engaging key stakeholders and personnel, forming committees, evaluating facilities, and effectively utilizing and allocating resources.
TESS 865: How People Teach and Learn STEM
This course explores teaching and learning in STEM classrooms, focusing on the application of STEM education research. Students will examine key concepts, student experiences, and STEM's role in society. The course prepares students to be instructional leaders in STEM education through projects and assignments.
Discover the full Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education) program have diverse career opportunities in K-12 education and beyond. The skills developed through this program enable graduates to assume roles requiring advanced STEM knowledge, leadership abilities, and curriculum development expertise.
STEM Coordinator
In this role, graduates lead the implementation of STEM programs across schools or districts, collaborating with teachers to integrate STEM initiatives effectively. They ensure the curriculum aligns with current standards and help develop activities engaging students in hands-on, inquiry-based learning.
Curriculum Specialist
Curriculum specialists work closely with school administrators and teachers to design and evaluate instructional materials in STEM. These specialists develop comprehensive programs that enhance students' educational experience and support teachers in delivering high-quality STEM content.
Praxis Preparation Instructor
Praxis preparation instructors develop targeted study materials, conduct review sessions, and provide individualized feedback to help teachers meet endorsement requirements and expand their qualifications in STEM education.
Lead STEM Teacher
As lead STEM teachers, graduates take on mentorship and leadership responsibilities within their schools, guiding other educators in delivering STEM content. They often oversee STEM activities, coordinate professional development sessions, and work to improve student outcomes through innovative, research-based instructional strategies.
Prospective students must complete an online application and submit the required fee, which is $40 for domestic students or $50 for international students. The fee is nonrefundable and must accompany the application to be processed.
Academic Qualifications
Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher on the last 60 undergraduate credits. That academic requirement demonstrates the readiness to engage in advanced coursework in STEM education.
Official Transcripts
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended directly to the admissions office. These transcripts provide a comprehensive academic performance record and ensure graduate-level coursework eligibility.
Personal Statement
A one- to two-page personal statement describing the applicant's motivation for entering the program, educational background, and future career goals is a requirement. The statement helps assess the candidate's commitment to advancing their skills in STEM education.
Professional Recommendations
Two letters of recommendation from professional contacts are necessary, ideally one from a former professor or educational advisor and one from a supervisor or mentor. These letters highlight the applicant's teaching ability, leadership potential, and dedication to education.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several programs related to the Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction – STEM Education). These programs provide alternative pathways for educators interested in expanding their skills in specialized areas of teaching and learning. These programs include:
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Effective Teacher)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - Exceptional and Diverse Learners)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - Science of Language and Literacy)
- M.S. in Special Education (Gifted)
- M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence)
- M.S. in Special Education (High Incidence)
- Master of Science in Educational Administration
A range of STEM electives is available, including Praxis prep courses in chemistry, biology, and physics.
Graduates can pursue roles as STEM coordinators, lead teachers, and curriculum specialists in K-12 education.
The program provides hands-on courses in instructional design, technology integration, and STEM teaching strategies to improve classroom engagement.
Yes, the fully online format has flexibility, allowing teachers to balance work and studies effectively.
While it does not lead to state licensure, it includes Praxis preparation for STEM endorsements.
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.
- CACREP Accreditation:
The Department of Advanced Education Programs holds Advanced-Level Accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). See the Fort Hays State University CAEP Accredited Provider page for details.
Advanced-Level Accreditation is provided at the post-baccalaureate or graduate levels leading to licensure, certification, or endorsement. Advanced-Level Programs are designed to develop P-12 teachers who have already completed an initial-licensure program, currently licensed administrators, or other certified (or similar state language) school professionals for employment in P-12 schools/districts. CAEP's Advanced-Level accreditation does not include any advanced-level program not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts; any advanced-level non-licensure programs, including those specific to content areas; or educational leadership programs not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts.
- Master's
- Online
