Mathematics and Science Education (MSE) is an interdisciplinary concentration within the PhD in Education: Curriculum & Instruction.
The MSE doctoral program spans P-20 mathematics and science education in urban settings in and out of schools. The focus is on developing new knowledge that improves science and mathematics education and has an impact on the communities we serve. Students engage in coursework and research experiences that guide them to view issues of learning, teaching, curriculum, assessment, and policy through sociocultural and sociopolitical lenses where equity, social justice, race, language, culture, and identity are essential considerations.
Students who enroll in the MSE PhD program are required to complete a minimum of 98 semester hours of coursework beyond the baccalaureate degree or 66 hours beyond the Master’s degree. Coursework beyond the Master’s includes 24 hours of the College of Education core, 12 hours of the MSE core, and 12 hours in one of the two disciplinary strands (i.e., mathematics education or science education).
Program faculty members are widely recognized as leaders in their respective fields. They have published extensively on the educational experiences of African American and Latino learners, and bring to their research and teaching strong disciplinary education in STEM fields. They also have considerable records of mentoring and preparing scholars from traditionally underrepresented groups, as well as preparing and collaborating with P-20 science and mathematics teachers and faculty.
Graduates of the MSE program are well-prepared to assume a variety of positions in colleges, universities and informal educational settings to improve the mathematics and science education for children, adolescents and adult learners through research.
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Frequently Asked Questions Heading link
What can I do with a PhD in Mathematics and Science Education?
Secure a postdoctoral research associate position, become or advance as a faculty member in colleges and universities, become a leader in K-12 educational settings, pursue teacher/school-based research while continuing to teach in K-12, secure or advance in a position at institutions providing informal education and non-profit organizations.
How long does the program take?
It depends on whether students pursue the program full-time or part-time, and the level of part-time (i.e., one course per semester or two courses). Students usually complete the program in 4-9 years.
Is transfer of course credit allowed?
Transfer of course credit is not automatic and requires approval by program faculty. The UIC Graduate College permits no more than 25 percent of the hours to be transferred into the degree. For more information about credit transfer procedures, please consult the UIC Graduate Catalog.
Can I hold a job while in the program?
Yes, many students in the program hold a full-time job. Evening course meeting times are intentional to reduce conflicts between work and academic schedules.
When do courses meet?
College of Education courses typically meet once a week in the evenings (5 p.m.–8 p.m.) Monday through Thursday. In the summer, they typically meet twice per week in the evenings (4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.) depending on the summer session (I or II) in which they are offered.
Is the GRE required?
No, the GRE is not required.
Is a master’s degree required for this program?
No, a master’s degree is not required, but can be pursued while in the PhD program. Students who enroll in the MSE PhD program without having a master’s are required to complete a minimum of 98 credit hours of coursework beyond the baccalaureate degree. Students who have a master’s degree are required to complete 66 credit hours.
Can I afford the degree?
UIC makes every effort to help students pay for the cost of going to college. Our College Financial Aid page can help answer your questions.
Review the UIC tuition and fee schedule and find out more about billing and payment options.
The University of Illinois at Chicago offers six basic types of financial aid for graduate students: fellowships, assistantships, tuition-and-selected-fee waivers, traineeships, loans, and employment. Applicants for these types of aid must be admitted to a graduate degree program or have a completed application pending. Eligibility for loans is determined by the Office of Student Financial Aid. Applicants for loans should go directly to the Office of Student Financial Aid. Applications for fellowships, assistantships, and tuition/fee waivers are available in the department office, the Graduate College Office, and on the Graduate College website. In the administration of these programs and in selecting students for participation in them, the University of Illinois at Chicago adheres to the Nondiscrimination Statement on the Office for Access and Equity website.
Can I get housing on campus?
Yes, but it is limited. It is best to apply as soon as you know you want to live on campus, because applications are prioritized by date of application. Visit campus housing to find out more and submit your application.
What student support does the College of Education provide?
The UIC College of Education is committed to the success of its students. If you have concerns or questions you can stop by the Office of Student Success or make an appointment to see a faculty advisor. The College encourages a good working relationship between students and their advisors. You can also find support from your professors and fellow students. UIC offers many support programs and opportunities that encourage academic success. Each incoming PhD student is assigned a faculty member as a program advisor who can help you select classes, understand the program, and connect to UIC resources.