MAT-SE Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an MEd program and this MAT program?
Compared to a typical MEd degree, this MAT degree program is focused more on the science content and on how to do research than on general practice and educational theory.
What are the educational benefits of this particular MAT-SE degree program?
Building on fundamental coursework in science, society, and technology, adult learners will benefit from direct interaction with renowned experts and specialists in biology, chemistry, geosciences, mathematics, physics, science education, as well as other related schools and departments. Interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world experience will help to integrate the core concepts of science with the subtleties of pedagogy that spring from allowing students to construct their own knowledge.
In advancing their career status, graduates of this program will have knowledge and skills to serve as innovative practitioners and qualified academicians. The knowledge in scientific research and educational practice gleaned from their advanced study will allow them to effectively promote science within K-16 classrooms. They and their students will be prepared to find acceptable solutions for the complex issues common in today’s economic, political, and educational arenas.
Who might enroll in this program – and why?
The MAT-SE Online degree satisfies an acute need for science educators with breadth in science content and in-depth studies of science education related topics as schools, business, and industry move to a more integrated focus in both science and applications of science and technology. As such, the online strand is exceptionally well-suited for:
- public/private school teachers needing integrated science content across grade levels;
- science educators seeking to continue/further studies in an area of high interest;
- district supervisors needing to conduct and understand research in science education;
- community college instructors seeking content that may not be available locally;
- university faculty seeking to improve their teaching and/or expand their research methods at the university level;
- training professionals needing to ‘round out’ their existing knowledge with pedagogical techniques that are applicable to a range of content areas; and,
- school leaders seeking to make sound decisions regarding high-stake investments in science education procedures, practice, and policy.
I only have 6 hours of science from my baccalaureate coursework, but I am currently teaching science. Can I start this program now?
Yes, you may apply to the program as a non-degree seeking student to begin your coursework. After 12 hours of successful coursework in science you may change your status to degree seeking. These 12 hours in science will count toward your MAT-SE degree as well as satisfy the program's entry requirements. Upon acceptance to the program, your advisor will help you select coursework to fulfill this requirement.
What if I’m not a traditional 'non-traditional' student?
Not only are the MAT-SE Online courses student-centered, but so are the program options in order to better serve a diverse population with specific needs. Degree plans can accommodate elective hours to fulfill prerequisite deficiencies and content hours to address specialization area interests. Course sequencing enables students to maintain a full or partial load over independent semesters. Thesis research is scalable from district-wide evaluations to individual case studies, as well as the range of possibilities within virtually unlimited bounds.
What is an ‘integrated’ science course?
‘Integrated’ means that a content item is discussed in terms of more than one subject. Even though it is virtually impossible to separate the natural sciences (biology, chemistry, geosciences, physics, etc.) in the real world, we typically treat them as independent topics in the classroom. In the integrated science courses, we approach the topic from multiple perspectives, drawing in pertinent details from related fields.
How much will it cost?
Students are billed by UTD for courses. Links to campus tuition and fee information can be found on the cost & financial Information page.
Will I have to visit the campus at any time?
The MAT-SE Online program is offered predominantly using the Internet, but may include supplemental materials. Students are not required to attend the campus at any time. The program is designed to meet the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students. UT Dallas’ Science Education program welcomes students and visitors to their main campus in Richardson, Texas. See the UT Dallas campus website for more information about the university.
How can I find more information?
Visit UT Dallas’ Science/Mathematics Education Department website, contact the program advisor or the UT TeleCampus, 1-888-TEXAS-16.
Will my employer accept the MAT-SE Online degree as a "real" degree?
All of the UT System universities are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The high quality of the MAT-SE Online program is ensured through the Academic Affairs Committee. This committee is made up of Science Education, Natural Science, and Teacher Development faculty and/or administrators to ensure that the online degree meets the same standards as the onsite degree program.
What are the time requirements for a course?
The online courses in this program will require approximately the same time as a traditionally offered course. Students should plan on committing approximately 10 hours per week. All courses will follow the regular semester schedule.
Can courses from a previous Master's degree apply toward this degree?
You are allowed to transfer up to 12 graduate semester hours with approval from your advisor. These courses must have been taken from an accredited university within the past seven years in order to be considered.
Must I still apply for admissions into the program and take the GRE if I am not interested in pursuing a Master’s Degree?
You must still apply for admission into the graduate program but if you classify yourself as non-degree seeking, you are allowed to take up to 12 semester hours without being required to take the GRE or submitting the two letters of recommendation.
What kind of certification will I receive?
Receiving an MAT-SE degree will NOT confer teacher certification to you from the State of Texas. To receive Texas Teacher Certification you must complete other requirements outside the scope of this program.
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