The program is unusual in two important ways. First, it is an intercollege, interdisciplinary effort. Second, many of the courses will be taken by distance learning asynchronous, computer-mediated communication.

The program of study may begin with distance learning courses in any semester or summer classes at the MSU-Bozeman campus. Study continues with distance learning courses that students take from their homes or workplaces, and ends with a second visit for presentation of the results of a personalized science education capstone project. Over 80% of the courses and credits may be taken off-campus by asynchronous, computer-mediated communication. Thirty semester credits are required for the degree. Students typically will complete the degree in two or three years.

In addition to completing a group of core courses (12 credits total) which includes a 3-credit capstone project, students develop interdisciplinary combinations of science courses (12 credits minimum) from offerings in biology, chemistry, earth science, microbiology, plant sciences, physics, and other related areas. The final 6 credits in the 30-credit program are electives selected from education and/or science courses. See Courses.

Interdisciplinary efforts and incorporation of both science content and pedagogy have been encouraged during the development of courses. Each student seeking the degree is advised by a three-person faculty committee, and programs are designed taking into account the student's background, interests, and career goals.

The Program Features:

• A special design for middle and high school science teachers involving experienced science, science education, and mathematics faculty with the collaboration of outstanding classroom teachers.
• Over 80% of the courses may be taken on-line by asynchronous, computer-mediated communication.
• The opportunity to work at home without frequent trips to campus.
• The chance to participate in classes when it is most convenient for you.
• On-campus summer experiences that vary in length from one to four weeks.
• Emphasizes the National Science Education Standards.
• Personalized science education capstone project for each student.
• Interdisciplinary-intercollege program.
• Large selection of science content courses.
• Self-paced program

Because different students have different responsibilities at work and home, not all students will progress in the program at the same pace. It is possible to complete the degree requirements in two academic years and three summers. It is expected that most students will complete the degree in 2-3 years. The Division of Graduate Studies allows up to six years to complete the degree.

History

The intercollege-interdisciplinary Master of Science in Science Education (MSSE) degree program was approved in May, 1996, by the Montana Board of Regents of Higher Education and is offered by Montana State University-Bozeman. This program is sponsored jointly by the Colleges of Agriculture; Education, Health and Human Development; Letters and Science; and the Division of Graduate Studies. The Office of Intercollege Programs for Science Education coordinates the MSSE Program, and the Burns Telecommunications Center provides technical support.

MSU-Bozeman has gained valuable experience in offering on-line courses through its National Science Foundation-funded National Teachers Enhancement Network (NTEN) project. Since the early 1990's, those participating in MSU's NTEN project have offered many on-line science courses to teachers nationwide. In addition to increasing awareness, acceptance, and expertise among faculty and administrators, such experience with distance delivery has resulted in the development of an infrastructure for both faculty and student support that enables MSU to provide high quality learning experiences at a distance.

Instructors

The MSSE degree program was developed by Montana State University faculty members who are active in science, science education, and mathematics. The program is a unique, cooperative effort of several colleges and departments. Faculty members of the departments of Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Earth Science, Education, Health and Human Development, Land Resources and Environmental Science, Mathematics, Microbiology, Plant Science and Environmental Science, Physics, and other related areas will teach most courses. Faculty members of other departments and units will play a major role in some courses. When appropriate, courses may be taught by faculty members of other institutions. Instructors have doctorate degrees in the subjects they teach; science courses are offered through the appropriate science content department.

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