Chemistry (M.S.) - Chemistry Education Specialization

Location(s): Online

Chemistry Education graphic

Program Coordinator/Contact

Matthew Miller, Professor
Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics
Avera Health and Science Center 247, Box 2202
605-688-5151

Program Information

In addition to a traditional thesis-based (Option A) M.S. degree, the department also offers a predominantly online Chemistry M.S. with chemistry education specialization. This is a non-thesis (Option B) degree that focuses on the content necessary for practicing high school teachers to achieve highly qualified status. Admission in this program is limited to in-service high school/college science teachers. Students interested in thesis-based M.S. degree in the sub-disciplinary area of chemical education should select the Chemistry (M.S.) program in their application for admission.

Course Delivery Format

The M.S. in Chemistry – Chemistry Education Specialization is a largely online program for course offerings. As such, the content coursework is delivered via online format. In this format, individualized coursework and discussion methods are used to encourage discourse on content as it relates to teaching high school science. In summer, students participate in laboratory development exercises with research active faculty in the Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, providing practical skills development. Additionally, students learn about research skills for the classroom to engage in a year-long action research project.

Student Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of AP curriculum: Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of topics in the Advanced Placement curriculum in chemistry.
- Students will be able to explain atomic theory.
- Students will be able to describe bonding and intermolecular forces.
- Students will be able to explain phases of matter.
- Students will be able to explain thermodynamics and equilibria.
- Students will be able to describe kinetics.
- Students will demonstrate an understanding of electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, and organic and biochemistry.
Apply content knowledge toward teaching: Students will apply content knowledge toward teaching and critique their approaches toward teaching various chemistry topics.
Action research project: Students will investigate the learning environment in their classroom via an action research project.
Make discipline accessible and meaningful: Students will use the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he/she teaches and create learning experiences that make the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners to assure mastery of the content.
Prepare plans of instruction to support all students: Students will prepare plans of instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals by drawing upon knowledge of content areas, curriculum, cross-disciplinary skills, and pedagogy, as well as knowledge of learners and the community context.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science

Option B - Research/Design Paper

32 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

CHEM 770 - Atomic Theory & Bonding Credits: 3
CHEM 771 - Intermolecular Interactions & Phases of Matter Credits: 3
CHEM 772 - Thermodynamics Credits: 3
CHEM 773 - Equilibria & Acid-Base Chemistry Credits: 3
CHEM 774 - Kinetics, Nuclear, & Electrochemistry Credits: 3
CHEM 775 - Organic & Biochemistry Credits: 3
CHEM 776 - Laboratory Development Credits: 3 (6 credits required) (Must be taken twice for 3 credits each session.)
CHEM 777 - Action Research in the Secondary Classroom Credits: 1 (2 credits required)
CHEM 778 - Chemistry Teaching Strategies Credits: 3
CHEM 788 - Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-6 (Must be taken twice, once for 1 credit, the second for 2 credits.)

Total Required Credits: 32 (Option B)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Applications are accepted for admission to the M.S. program in fall only. Students are strongly encouraged to submit their applications for admission no later than January 15. Initial offers of admission will be made no later than the first week of February.

In addition to the materials required by the Graduate School, the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry requires the following application materials:

A one- to two-page personal statement which includes a description of work experience, or other factors demonstrating a propensity toward graduate studies. The personal statement should also include a statement of the applicant’s career goals. The applicant may upload this statement while completing the Graduate School’s online application.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .