The M.S.T. is designed for licensed 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.
Check departmental information for additional requirements.
Students seeking admission to the M.S.T. program in the Department of Mathematical Sciences must meet all the standard requirements for admission to the NIU Graduate School. In addition to the standard requirements for graduate admission, the M.S.T. program requires degree-seeking applicants to submit the following materials:
Baccalaureate Field: A B.A./B.S. in Mathematics is required to be considered for admission. Outstanding candidates from other related fields with substantial course work in Mathematics will also be considered.
Letters of Recommendation: Two (2) letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic credentials and abilities to successfully complete a graduate-level degree program. The individuals who will submit a letter on your behalf should be individuals who have a professional or academic relationship with you.
Statement of Purpose: Your statement of purpose should be approximately between 250 and 750 words. It should outline your preparation for graduate study in your chosen field, as well as your goals for graduate school and beyond. In addition, it should explain why you believe the M.S.T. program can best help you meet these goals.
Resume/CV: Copy of your current resume/CV indicating your professional or volunteer experience and other achievements.
Test Scores: All applicants are highly recommended to provide official scores on all sections of the GRE General Test taken in the past five years. When having your GRE score sent, use the institution code 1559. NIU does not require department codes.
Specialization in Engineering Education
The Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) with specialization in Engineering Education prepares teachers with mathematics or science licensure 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. The program is only offered at the request of a school district.
Mission
The Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) with specialization in Engineering Education prepares licensed 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.
Program Requirements
Students must complete at least 33 semester hours of graduate work consisting of the following courses:
Return to: