Science/Biology Education: Preparation (7-12), MS

Contact:

Sharon Dotger, Faculty Director of Teacher Education and Undergraduate Studies, 315-443-9138, sdotger@syr.edu

Faculty

Sharon Dotger, Duane Graysay, Heather Lavender, Janine Nieroda-Madden, Julia White

Description

A master’s degree program in science/biology education is available for those with no education background seeking New York State teacher certification for grades 7-12 (preparation program). Our certification programs combine multiple clinically rich field experiences with campus-based coursework emphasizing theoretical and practical knowledge in research-based science teaching and learning.

For decades, science education at Syracuse University has been a national leader in promoting science literacy by advancing the knowledge base for effective science teaching and learning at all levels of education. We are well known for our commitment to both components of a seamless tradition: student-centered science teaching and cutting-edge research in pursuit of effective educational practices. We subscribe to the guiding principles that underlie the Next Generation Science Standards::

children are born investigators;
teaching science means students use core scientific ideas and practices;
students’ understanding develops over time;
science requires both knowledge and practice;
science education should connect students’ interest and experiences;
all students should be provided with equitable opportunities to learn science and become engaged in science practices.

The program prepares students to become science educators in 21st century classrooms, who are proficient in five areas:

Critical reflection and explanations of practice.
Content knowledge.
Inclusive and culturally relevant pedagogy.
Assessment of student learning and development of scientific literacy.
Professional conduct and collaboration.

The 35-credit M.S. in Science/Biology Education, in combination with the science credits described below, meets the academic requirements for New York State initial teacher certification in Biology 7-12. Graduates of the program may receive institutional recommendation as completing an approved program for this certificate. There are also application, tests, and other requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Acquire knowledge of each student, and demonstrate knowledge of student development and learning to promote achievement for all students.

2. Know the content they are responsible for teaching, and plan instruction that ensures growth and achievement for all students.

3. Implement instruction that engages and challenges all students to meet or exceed the learning standards.

4. Work with all students to create a dynamic learning environment that supports achievement and growth.

5. Use multiple measures to assess and document student growth, evaluate instructional effectiveness, and modify instruction.

6. Demonstrate professional responsibility and engage relevant stakeholders to maximize student growth, development, and learning

7. Set informed goals and strive for continuous professional growth

Master’s Degree Course Requirements

This full-time program begins in May (summer session) only, and may be completed in 13-15 months. Thirty-five credits are required. However, students who enter with education study equivalent to one of the courses below may have their syllabi reviewed for waiver of courses. In no case will fewer than 30 graduate credits be required.

First Summer

(courses with * include field experience)

EDU 606 - Understanding Learning and Teaching 4 credit(s) *
RED 625 - Literacy Across the Curriculum 3-4 credit(s) 4 credits required*
SCE 718 - Curriculum Problems in Science 3 credit(s) or
Science Education Course (3 credits)

Fall - Candidacy Semester

SCE 613 - Methods and Curriculum in Teaching Science 3 credit(s)
SPE 612 - Adapting Instruction for Diverse Student Needs 3 credit(s)
EDU 508 - Student Teaching 2-15 credit(s) (3 credits required) *
Safe and Healthy Learning Environments (0 credit), which includes the following topics: Identifying/reporting child abuse, violence prevention, child abduction prevention, highway/general safety, alcohol/drug/tobacco prevention, fire and arson prevention, and training related to the Dignity for All Students (DASA) Act.

Spring - Standard Student Teaching Semester

EDU 508 - Student Teaching 2-15 credit(s) (6 credits required) *

Second Summer

SCE 614 - The Nature of Science in Science Education 3 credit(s)
ELL 645 - Issues in Educating English Language Learners 3 credit(s)

Intensive Examination

A master’s degree intensive examination is also required.

Biology Content Requirements

In addition to the graduate courses listed above, this program requires either an undergraduate degree in Biology or Biological Sciences or a degree in another area with 30 hours of Biology content. Typically, a 3.0 average in these courses is required.

It is expected that students will enter the program with most of these requirements completed. Students who do not complete all of the requirements cannot be recommended for certification.

Also Required:

Workshops in violence prevention, child abuse and abduction, substance abuse, the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), and school and fire safety.

As a culminating experience, students complete a portfolio demonstrating evidence of professional competence.