Master of Science of Instruction

About the Program

The Master of Science in the Science of Instruction program builds on Drexel’s discipline-based teacher education program at the undergraduate level and on the Graduate Intern Teaching Certificate program at the graduate level. Coursework for the Graduate Intern Teaching Certificate program forms the core of this master’s degree; the same requirements for Intern and Instructional I Certification apply.

The program is designed primarily for those who wish to teach high school mathematics, science, and/or technology, especially as a subsequent career, although the degree may be obtained without completing the requirements for a teaching certificate. The program is especially appropriate for those who already possess a degree in mathematics, science, or engineering. In addition, the program is relevant to individuals in careers such as business and communications who wish to teach at the elementary grade levels. The program is designed for part-time as well as full-time study. Full-time students can usually complete the program in one year. Both the Pennsylvania Intern Certificate and the Instructional I Certificate may be attained through this program before the degree requirements are met.

The graduate Science of Instruction program incorporates current research on teaching and provides in-depth preparation in pedagogy, curriculum development, heuristic diagnostic teaching, implications of learner and task characteristics for instructional design, the latest techniques in evaluation of instruction, and use of interactive technology in instruction. The student is provided opportunities to synthesize theoretical and practical knowledge through field study in elementary and secondary classrooms. Students seeking a teaching certificate are required to engage in classroom research as a component of several of the required courses. The main goal of the program is to prepare teachers who will strengthen mathematics, science, and technology instruction in kindergarten through high school.