"The MS-ASE program is intensive and demanding, but, as a veteran teacher, I have enjoyed the challenge and appreciate the many ways the courses I have been taking enrich my knowledge and skills. I have a more-thorough understanding of inquiry and the nature of science and a new perspective in what effective science teaching should entail."

—Kris Raisanen Schourek
Hancock High School teacher
Graduate Student

The program
Established teachers can move from provisional to professional certification by meeting state requirements through work toward a master’s degree.

The Department of Education works closely with major departments in awarding secondary certification in the areas of biology, business and economics, chemistry, computer science, earth science, English, science, mathematics, physics, social studies, and technology and design.

Degree
MS in Applied Science Education

The Master of Science in Applied Science Education (MS-ASE) degree is designed to meet the needs of teachers who

• want to improve their knowledge and application of science and math in the classroom;
• desire to continue their professional development;
• wish to seek an advanced degree in an application-based master’s program;
• strive to accomplish the goals of the Michigan Curriculum Frameworks and Benchmarks and National Standards.
  

Program requirements/admissions criteria

Enrollment is limited. Applications are reviewed by the MS-ASE Coordinating Committee of the Michigan Tech Department of Education on a competitive basis. Applicants are selected based on the following criteria. The applicant must

• be the recipient of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution;
• possess secondary teacher certification;
• have at least one year of secondary teaching experience;
• be adequately prepared for advanced study in the chosen field of specialization as demonstrated by the undergraduate program of study and the scholastic record;
• be recommended for admission by the chair of the Michigan Tech Department of Education.
• Upon receipt of your initial letter of inquiry, an application packet will be sent to you, including the following information:
  • an application form
  • three forms for letters of recommendation
  • additional program information

Stature
MTU’s master’s program was designed using the Michigan Curriculum Frameworks and Benchmarks and National Standards as guides.
  By enrolling in this graduate program, teachers can move from provisional to professional certification by meeting state requirements through work toward a master’s degree—there are both financial and career benefits of the master’s degree that surpass those of just professional certification.
  The program combines courses taught by engineering and science faculty with internet-based courses in science education.
  The MS-ASE was initiated with financial support from the National Science Foundation.