Natural Sciences Education
Master of Natural Sciences Education (M.N.S.E.)
Degree Overview
Increase your science knowledge and competency in teaching science at the middle or high school level with the Master of Natural Sciences Education degree offered through the College of Natural Sciences. With a combination of science and education curriculum with a research experience, this graduate program:
- Expands your science knowledge in the areas of biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science
- Advances your instructional skills with coursework exploring classroom management, presentation skills, communication, and discipline
- Enhances your research skills and understanding of the methodology scientists use
The degree is designed for working teachers with undergraduate degrees in one or more science disciplines who are qualified through standard or alternative licensure procedures to teach middle or high school sciences.
Colorado State University produces more STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) graduates to help drive the state's economy than any other campus, and we produce more STEM high school teachers than any other university in Colorado.
We also offer an Advanced Science Instruction certificate that allows you to earn University credit and improve your skills without the commitment of a full degree program. Certificates are shorter, focus on the core subject matter, and do not require admission to the University. Coursework completed as part of this certificate can later be applied to your M.S.N.E should you be accepted to the program. You also have the option to take individual courses as professional development.
Requirements
A minimum of 34 semester credits must be completed, with at least 21 credits earned at Colorado State University after formal admission and at least 24 credits at the 500-level or above earned at CSU.
Curriculum
Coursework encompasses advanced science content, instructional development, and research.
Get started in Natural Sciences Education with a three-course certificate in Advanced Science Instruction. Certificate coursework can be applied to this degree program if you apply and are admitted.
Faculty
This program is taught by CSU faculty who are content experts in their fields.
Admission and Application
At a minimum, admission to this degree program requires a bachelor's degree in a science discipline and a 3.0 GPA.
The Learning Experience
All courses except for the research experience (NSCI 698) are delivered online. Online courses allow you to study at the time that best fits your schedule. Although the online format of this degree offers flexibility, it still requires the same amount of work and time as an on-campus graduate program. Depending on your learning and studying style, expect to spend at least nine to twelve hours per week on a three credit course. The program can be completed in two years (two academic years and two summers). In your courses you will:
I've enjoyed the MNSE program because it gave me a chance to continue my education while teaching. The labs and lecture material are practical and useable in class. I used a lab from my CSU chemistry class with my chemistry class. We used a 9V battery, alligator clips, and saltwater to show electrical conductivity. The students were very engaged, the lab was simple and affordable, and I felt comfortable teaching it since I had already tried the lab as a student. Ideas presented in the program are specifically catered toward high school curricula; they are a supplement to what teachers are already doing."
– Lindsay Martin
- Download and review lecture notes.
- Complete assigned and optional readings.
- Communicate with instructors and fellow students through chat rooms, threaded discussions, and email.
- Exchange ideas with classmates.
- Complete individual and collaborate on group projects.
- Study for and complete exams.
- Write course-related papers.
Your interactions with faculty depend on the specific course, but, generally, they have online or telephone office hours and are available by email or through course discussion boards.
What Next?
- Read more about this program
- Contact us
Mike Macklin
(970) 491-7583
michael.macklin@colostate.edu - Stay informed with email updates
This program is undergoing a few changes. Sign up for email updates, and be the first to know the most up-to-date information about the Master of Natural Sciences Education program.
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- Explore similar programs in Computer Science and Technology, Education, Statistics
- Download the Natural Sciences Education flyer for program highlights.
We'll be in touch within 2 business days.
- or contact -
Mike Macklin
(970) 491-7583
michael.macklin@colostate.edu
Receive periodic emails about this program.
For academic advising questions:
Dr. Donald Mykles
College of Natural Sciences
(970) 491-6864
donald.mykles@colostate.edu
Degree at a Glance
Delivery
Online. On-campus attendance is not required to complete this program.
Total credits
34 credits. This is a coursework-only degree (Plan C); a thesis is not required.
Tuition
$520 per credit.
(financial aid available)
Time frame
Can be completed in two years (2 academic years and 2 summers).
Designed for
Middle school and high school science teachers with a bachelor's degree in the sciences.
What you will earn
You earn the same regionally-accredited Colorado State University degree that a student on the Fort Collins campus is awarded. Your diploma and transcript are identical to those given to on-campus students.
