Policy Statement - 05-19 Science Education, Master of Science in, Option in Informal Science Education (SCEDMS03)

Policy Statement
05-19
November 29, 2005

MS in Science Education, Option in Informal Science Education (SCEDMS03)

This new option was recommended by the Academic Senate on November 10, 2005 and approved by the President on November 14, 2005.

The option in Informal Science Education is aimed at educators currently working in non-classroom settings such as museums, zoos, and nature centers, as well as those charged with fostering the public understanding of science. Graduates enrolled in this program will strengthen their understanding of science, gain a deeper conception of the objectives and theories of science education, and examine the contexts of learning beyond the traditional classroom. This option is ideal for informal educators who wish to better understand and facilitate the learning that occurs within their institution. Students completing this option will be prepared to assume positions of greater science leadership within their institutions, or go on to further graduate study in science education.

Prerequisites

In addition to the prerequisites for entrance into CSULB as a graduate student stated in this Catalog under Graduate Degrees and Post Baccalaureate Studies, the Science Education department requires:

California Multiple Subject or science teaching credential, or the equivalent*;

GPA of at least 3.0 for the last 60 units of study completed.

* Those students participating in the informal science option may substitute one or more years experience working as an educator in an informal learning setting; a letter of support is required.

Students are expected to exhibit high standards of writing proficiency. Students missing any admission criteria may only be admitted after receiving the approval of a department graduate faculty committee.

Program of Study

The program of study (33 units) includes the successful completion of

  • Science Education core courses: SCED 550, 551, 552, 553, 697
  • 6 units of science courses from: SCED 500, 501, 502, or other graduate-level science courses chosen in consultation with advisor
  • 3 units research methodology from: EDP 520, REC 696, in consultation with advisor
  • 3 units non-profit management or other practitioner-related course from: REC 528, 521, in consultation with advisor
  • 3 units elective, chosen in consultation with advisor
  • SCED 698, thesis

EFFECTIVE: Spring 2006

Code: SCEDMS03
College: 65
Career: GR
IPEDS (Major) ERSS: 08997
IPEDS (Degree) ERSD: 08997