M.Sc. in Science Education

Course details

By studying Science Education at postgraduate level, you will have the opportunity to further develop your knowledge of the science subjects, and to examine critically the methodologies employed in science teaching. While this programme attracts many second-level science teachers, the programme, or particular elements of it, also attracts individuals in industry who are involved with second-level schools.

Aims and Objectives:

• To further increase students' levels of achievement in two science subjects (Biology, Physics, Chemistry) and in Information Technology (IT).
• To provide experience in inquiry and investigative approaches to teaching and learning science.
• To analyse techniques to deal with identified issues in science education, such as assessment, cognitive demand, mixed ability teaching of science, science for all, planning and management of laboratory and project work, and Health and Safety in school laboratories.
• To broaden the experience of science into areas of science communication and media.
• To allow students to conduct a research project in the area of science education.

Programme Structure:

This two year, part-time modular programme has three exit routes, namely: Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and M.Sc. Attendance is required on one afternoon and one evening per week during the semester (currently Wednesday from 2pm to 9pm) and also for four days at the end of October. Depending on your choice of options, attendance may be required on campus on one other evening per week.

The programme is structured so that students can choose topics that interest them. Particular options available may vary depending on demand.

The 90 credits that are awarded for the Masters programme are:

• Core Science modules (30 credits)
• Science in Context modules (15 credits )
• Educational ICT modules (15 credits)
• Research project (30 credits)

TOTAL 90 credits

The course is divided into four semesters, plus a project. Each semester carries 15 credits with a balanced content of science, science in context and educational ICT. To obtain a Graduate Certificate, the student must gain 30 credits (typically the Year 1 course), which must include at least 10 credits from science modules. The requirements for a Graduate Diploma are 60 credits. To obtain the M.Sc. the student needs to gain the full 90 credits, which comprises the two year course, plus submission of the research dissertation. Single module certification is also possible.

Why DCU:

• This programme is unique as it addresses the three main elements of science, science communication and science education/teaching.
• The programme provides challenges to reassess science education methodologies.
• There is great scope within the programme for you to follow your own interests.
• Dissertations are informed by a wealth of national and international science education research already carried out at DCU.
• As students meet each week, there is a sense of community that builds up within the group, providing support for all.

Career Prospects:

You will be equipped to continue within the teaching profession with greater confidence, as well as being prepared for other challenges, such as science communication in industry or the wider community. Graduates are also eligible to apply for research positions or Ph.D. research positions nationally and internationally.