Master of Science in Teaching

The M.S.T. is designed for certified teachers seeking teaching endorsements at the master’s level in disciplines approved by the university. All students pursuing the degree will be required to complete core experiences in which they demonstrate knowledge, skills, and dispositions related to assessment, diversity and special needs, human development and learning, and pedagogy in their content area.

The student learning outcomes for this degree are located at http://www.niu.edu/assessment/clearinghouse/outcomes/index.shtml.

Admission

All applicants for the M.S.T. program must meet requirements for admission to the Graduate School and be accepted for admission by the faculty of the specialization. 

Specialization in Engineering Education

The Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) with specialization in Engineering Education prepares teachers with mathematics or science certification to infuse traditional content with the 21st century knowledge and skills associated with emerging critical technologies such as nanotechnology, fuel cells, and modern manufacturing technology. The program integrates mathematics and science standards for teaching and learning into the middle school and high school industrial technology endorsements. The central goal of the program is to empower teachers to implement generative and transformative pedagogy by using research-based instructional practices and emerging engineering content. Four strands permeate the program: (1) active learning through such approaches as project-based learning and guided inquiry, (2) adolescent identity development, (3) action research, and (4) teacher leadership.

Mission

The Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) with specialization in Engineering Education prepares certified middle and high school teachers of mathematics and the sciences to engage their students in authentic engineering content and processes. Such engagement will stimulate interest in mathematics, the sciences, and engineering among adolescent students at a formative time in their academic development.

Educational Objectives

The program leading to the Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) with specialization in Engineering Education is designed to: (1) improve teaching and learning of mathematics, the sciences, and engineering by increasing the knowledge and skills of teachers; (2) implement quality action research, focusing on inquiry and problem-solving skills; and (3) integrate research-based pedagogical practices and content.