Graduate Certificate in Science Education

Washington University Science Outreach, in partnership with the departments of biology and education, has established a 15-hour graduate certificate program in science education through University College, the evening division of the College of Arts and Sciences. The certificate program is directed at in-service teachers of grades K-8. Candidates for this program generally teach K-8 science, but do not have a college degree in science. Admission to the program is competitive and by application only.

Teachers receive three graduate credits in education for each relevant course completed. The credits may include undergraduate natural science and math courses offered through University College, as well as selected science education courses. The program is designed so teachers will receive graduate credit for the additional undergraduate courses.

Phyllis Balcerzak, director of professional development, serves as program director and academic advisor for all teachers in the program. General oversight is provided by an advisory council, with representatives from the natural science and education departments, as well as area teachers and school district personnel.

Support

A Howard Hughes Medical Institute Undergraduate Biological Sciences Education grant to Washington University provides funding for the courses and tuition discounts for teachers accepted as fellows into the certificate program.

Cost

Teachers accepted into the program will receive fellowships to cover all tuition and lab fees for approved coursework. The cost is a $450 registration fee for each course.

Admission

Teachers may apply to the certificate program after completing onecourse with a grade of B or better.

Requirements

1. Completion of the application for admission to the graduate certificate in science education program. Application includes a form, college transcripts, two letters of recommendation and an essay.
2. Completion of fifteen credit hours of approved coursework at Washington University. After acceptance to the program, each teacher will meet with the academic advisor and design an appropriate series of courses for their needs.
3. Development of a portfolio of applied classroom activities which result from each course. These materials will document the impact of the program on your teaching. The portfolio will include new or adapted activities, with information on classroom presentation and relative success; and a written paper in which you reflect upon your experiences in the program, paying particular attention to how your teaching philosophy and practice have been impacted through your participation. Faculty will be available to advise teachers on the development of the portfolio. Portfolios will be evaluated after the completion of all coursework for the certificate.

Application Deadlines

November 15 for acceptance for the spring semester
April 15 for acceptance for the fall semester

For more information, call (314) 935-6846
e-mail scienceoutreach@wustl.edu