M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies - Science Teaching

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Many teachers who have come to the CSU, Chico campus for workshops have indicated a need for more science enhancement and have expressed their desire to obtain an advanced degree. We responded by creating this distance program that offers accessibility and hands-on learning through Web-based courses during regular academic semesters. Although most of the course work is done via the Web, students are required to attend Saturday sessions once per month as a part of the program. This allows better communication between students and faculty and allows for networking between teachers from various geographical areas. While most of the program is conducted during regular academic semesters, candidates for the master’s degree must also attend two summer’s worth of a professional development program such as that offered on the CSU, Chico campus by the California Science Project (a two-week residential program usually taking place the last two weeks of June). The goal of this master’s program is to enhance science education by providing teachers with a comprehensive professional development program leading to an advanced degree.

The program offers teachers science content that includes societal issues (e.g., stewardship of watersheds) for integrating the three strands of sciences, earth, physical, and life as delineated in the new California Science Content Standards.