Science Education, Secondary Physics – Master's

Science Education, Secondary Physics – Master's Skip to content Skip to Chat Master's Programs Science Education, Secondary Physics Apply Now OVERVIEW Specialize in Teaching High School Physics Physics can be one of the more challenging courses your students will ever take in high school. By making physics interesting and less intimidating to young minds, you can help your students develop their critical thinking skills, strengthen their confidence, and lead them to a better understanding of the world in which they live. This online master’s degree program in science education can prepare you to teach physics courses at the high school levels. The program helps ensure your proficiency in general chemistry; mechanics; waves and optics; electricity and magnetism; space, time and motion; and pre-calculus and calculus. You will also learn the skills necessary to teach this content to students in junior high, middle school, or high school*. *The specific grade levels you will be qualified or endorsed to teach will depend on your state. Please note: The Master of Arts in Mathematics Education and the Master of Arts in Science Education programs are designed for P–12 teachers. The content and coursework in these programs do not meet the qualifications required to teach college-level courses, including dual enrollment or dual credit courses. Two Programs to Choose From Master of Arts in Teaching, Secondary Physics: This version of our physics education program is for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree, but are NOT licensed teachers. This program helps you get your teaching license and proceed with licensure in secondary physics. Master of Arts, Secondary Physics: This version of our physics education program is for individuals who are already licensed teachers and are looking to add secondary physics to their licensure. This program helps you be prepared to add a secondary physics certification to your existing license. Education COMPARE Science Education (Secondary Physics) — Master of Arts in Teaching VIEW DEGREE An online master's program for those who have already earned a bachelor's... An online master's program for those who have already earned a bachelor's degree, but now want to become a licensed teacher. MORE DETAILS APPLY NOW Time: 62% of students earn a similar degree in 24 months. Tuition: $4,125 per 6-month term. Courses: 20 total courses in this program (22 for Washington residents). This program is designed for aspiring teachers who want to become eligible to teach physics in their state. Concepts included in this program: General chemistry Mechanics Waves and optics Electricity and magnetism Space, time and motion Propel your career as a junior high or high school biology teacher with this education master's degree. Education COMPARE Science Education (Secondary Physics) – M.A. VIEW DEGREE An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in... An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching physics to middle or high school students. MORE DETAILS APPLY NOW Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 15 months. Tuition: $4,125 per 6-month term. Courses : 13 total courses in this program. This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who wish to add secondary physics to their licensure. Concepts included in this program: General Chemistry Mechanics Waves and optics Electricity and magnetism Space, time and motion Propel your career as a junior high or high school physics teacher with this education master's degree. Not Sure If You Need a Teaching License? If you aren't sure which program is right for you, or if you'll require a teaching license, you can learn more about licensure and if it's needed for your career goals. Learn About Teaching Licenses Tuition per six-month term is $4,125 Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps you control the ultimate cost of earning your degree online. Finish faster, pay less! Cost & Time Ready to Start Your WGU Journey? Next Start Date: {{startdate}} Start Dates the 1st of Every Month Apply Today COURSES Physics Education Courses Curriculum that ensures you’ve mastered the skills you’ll need as a physics teacher. At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff. MAT Program Guide MA Program Guide The online Master's of Physics Education degree programs provides the essential skills, knowledge, and experience you need to teach physics courses to students in high school. The programs are made up of the following physics courses. You will complete them one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. For the majority of courses in your program, you’ll work through each course as quickly as you can study and learn the material. This means that, for those flexible courses, you can finish as many courses as you're able in a term at no additional cost. Within your program, there may be a few number of courses in which we partner with outside organizations or testing agencies, and there may be restrictions for available offerings or necessary time for completion of the courses. Please work with your Program Mentor to plan ahead regarding these less flexible courses in your program. WGU's Physics  programs were designed (and are regularly updated) with input from experts. These respected authorities know exactly what it takes for a graduate to be an outstanding physics teacher. These programs also includes a home science lab kit. You will be provided access to order a self-contained laboratory kit—including science equipment, specimens and chemicals—to complete lab experiments at home. These at home lab-kits will be ordered at the beginning of the course in which it is needed, and it is encouraged for students to plan ahead with their Program Mentor when ordering these kits. Sample Physics Courses Science Education Science, Technology, and Society Science, Technology, and Society explores the ways in which science influences and is influenced by society and technology. A humanistic and social endeavor, science serves the needs of ever-changing societies by providing methods for observing, questioning, discovering, and communicating information about the physical and natural world. This course prepares educators to explain the nature and history of science, the various applications of science, and the scientific and engineering processes used to conduct investigations, make decisions, and solve problems. There are no prerequisites for this course. Science Methods—Secondary Physics Science Methods—Secondary Physics focuses on teaching methods specific to science for graduate students seeking an endorsement in secondary physics. Course content focuses on the design and teaching of standards-based lessons using the three dimensions of science (science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas) and the appropriate integration of technology into those lessons. Students in this course work within their content areas to evaluate, enhance, and plan appropriate science instruction. This course includes laboratory safety training and certification, which includes safe laboratory practices and procedures for science classrooms and the proper use of personal protective equipment. Previous coursework in curriculum, instruction, and assessment is a prerequisite for this course. Science Education Secondary Physics Curriculum MAT Secondary Physics Curriculum This course offers a comprehensive review for high school physics teachers preparing for the Praxis exam. Explore major scientific discoveries, key engineering innovations, and their societal impacts. Understand ethical issues in scientific research and the principles of effective science communication. Delve into different forms of energy, laws of thermodynamics, and the role of energy and matter in the universe. Study Coulomb's Law, electric circuits, and electromagnetism. Learn how to integrate wave properties, sound waves, and the electromagnetic spectrum into your teaching practice. As this course is focused on Praxis prep, content is conceptual and algebra-based. Three Dimensional Science and Engineering Three Dimensional Science and Engineering focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of science and engineering pedagogical knowledge. This course is the first of three science teaching methods courses and provides a robust foundation in integrating disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and science and engineering practices in phenomena-based curriculum and instruction. Candidates will delve into planning learning experiences, designing instructional strategies, and utilizing phenomena-based teaching to promote engagement and understanding. Reflective practices, such as evaluating observed teaching, analyzing personal teaching methods, and reviewing course content, are emphasized to foster continuous improvement. The course will be assessed via an integrated performance assessment task, requiring candidates to demonstrate their instructional skills. Laboratory Safety The course "Laboratory Safety" aims at equipping learners with essential safety knowledge and skills for various learning environments, including laboratories, classrooms, and field settings. Learners in this course will deeply understand safety protocols, legal responsibilities, and effective teaching strategies for safety in educational settings. Science Concepts in Science Concepts in Science for graduates provides already-licensed teachers seeking an additional license or endorsement in science education with an introduction to essential science themes present within and across all science disciplines, including chemistry, physics, biology, and the geosciences. These themes include comprehending the magnitude of the physical and natural world, analyzing and converting measurements, understanding the basic nature and behavior of matter and energy, examining atomic structure, identifying and naming basic types of chemical bonds, and analyzing and interpreting scientific data. Concepts in Science provides a solid foundation for future, in-depth, scientific studies and should be taken prior to any other science content course. There are no prerequisites for this course. Integrated Physical Sciences This course provides students with an overview of the basic principles and unifying ideas of the physical sciences: physics, chemistry, and Earth sciences. Course materials focus on scientific reasoning and practical and everyday applications of physical science concepts to help students integrate conceptual knowledge with practical skills. Science Secondary Science Teaching Methods This course focuses on equipping secondary science educators with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively teach science through a three-dimensional approach, integrating science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas. Participants will explore general considerations for science instruction, including inquiry-based learning, hands-on activities, and assessment strategies. By building on foundational knowledge in Three-Dimensional Science and Engineering, educators will enhance their ability to engage students in meaningful and authentic scientific learning experiences. This methods course will count towards 7 hours of the 51 total clinical hours that learners will gain from their SCED methods courses. 36 Courses Program consists of 36 courses At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff. Program Guide Teacher Work Sample Special requirements for this program The final exam requires that you write an original, comprehensive research paper that provides direct evidence of your ability to design and implement a multi-week, standards-based unit of instruction, assess student learning, and then reflect on the learning process. Request Info “I got a master's degree and a Washington state teaching certificate in 15 months! My new career as a secondary science teacher is what I have always wanted to do but, as a military spouse, lacked the geographic stability, time, and money to get this done. I went 'back to school' with WGU at the age of 45 and gave myself a whole new life!” —Morgen Ten Hoopen M.A. Science Education (Secondary Physics) WGU vs. Traditional Universities: Compare the Difference Traditional Universities TUITION STRUCTURE Per credit hour Flat rate per 6-month term SUPPORT Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one EXAMS Scheduled time Whenever you feel ready SCHEDULE Professor-led lectures at a certain time and place Courses available anytime, from anywhere TIME TO FINISH Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in under 2 years Apply Now Traditional Universities TUITION STRUCTURE Per credit hour TUITION STRUCTURE Flat rate per 6-month term SUPPORT Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors SUPPORT Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one EXAMS Scheduled time EXAMS Whenever you feel ready SCHEDULE Professor-led lectures at a certain time and place SCHEDULE Courses available anytime, from anywhere TIME TO FINISH Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options TIME TO FINISH As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in under 2 years Apply Now Why WGU? You Aren't On Your Own WGU has Program Mentors who work with you from the day you start, all the way through graduation. They help you chart your courses, answer your questions, and ensure you can go through your program. You're not alone when you choose an online degree at WGU. HOW WE DO IT Flexibility You Need Students choose WGU for their online degree program because of its flexibility. Whether you already have a full-time job, have responsibilities as a parent, or just have a busy schedule, WGU can work for you. A FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE Strong Alumni Network When you enroll in an online master's degree program at WGU, you join an impressive network of teachers. Over 19,000 students graduated from the School of Education in 2024 alone, taking their skills and impacting the educational system all around the United States. WHY THIS MATTERS Accredited, Respected, Recognized™ One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality is institutionally recognized. COST & TIME When We Say Affordable We Mean It By charging per six-month term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree. Apply FREE Tuition Calculator Pay less by completing your program faster TOTAL COST: YEARS Cost Breakdown Tuition 4,125 E-Books and Resources Fee 200 TOTAL (per 6-month term) 6-month terms Total Cost A Master's Degree Is Within Reach There is help available to make paying for school possible for you: The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average. Responsible Borrowing Initiative Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. Financial Aid Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for. Scholarships WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022). FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE A Different Way to Learn: Degree Programs Designed to Fit Your Life—and All the Demands on Your Time No rigid class schedules. Just a solid, career-focused math teaching program that meshes with your current lifestyle. You'll be challenged. You'll work hard. But if you commit yourself and put in the hours needed, WGU makes it possible for you to earn a highly respected degree as a busy working adult. WGU's physics education master's degree program is for licensed teachers who want to specialize in teaching physics. This program is specifically designed for working adult students, so you can honor your current work and family responsibilities while completing your coursework. REQUEST MORE INFO "My rating of WGU is due to the fact I could work at my own pace, either faster or slower. I worked through the pandemic which took a toll on my family and work. My mentor and WGU faculty were attentive to my concerns and helped me along at times of need. The curriculum was concise and effective. I have recommended WGU to my colleagues, three of whom are either currently enrolled or have completed their programs of study.” —James Rowlenson M.A. Science Education (Secondary Physics) CAREER OUTLOOK A Master’s in Physics Education Paves the Way for Current Teachers to Take to the Next Step If you're looking to teach because you have a passion for the living world and how it works, you are ready to advance in your career by specializing in high school physics. School districts in the United States consistently rank the sciences among their areas of highest need. Obtaining a master's degree in physics education degree will you for secondary certification to teach kids physics. Already-certified teachers, or those who pursue this program in order to get licensed, who earn a master’s degree in physics education qualify to teach high school physics in your state. MORE ABOUT CAREERS Return on Your Investment Many WGU graduates may see an increase in income post-graduation Average income increase in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary from all degrees. Source: 2024 Harris Poll of 1,655 WGU graduates. Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017. 5% High school teaching positions are expected to increase by at least 5% from 2021–2031. With the crisis-level shortage of STEM teachers in America, that increase could be substantially higher for science teachers. —U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics WGU Has Alumni Teaching Across the Country Graduates of the WGU School of Education have found meaningful, rewarding teaching careers in classrooms at: Inclusive K–12 classrooms Middle/junior high schools High schools Private and charter schools Impressive Class of Graduates Graduates of the the WGU School of Education include recipients of many professional honors, including: Gates Millennium Scholars Intel Grant for Mathematics and Technology Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction Award Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award Association of Public Charter Schools Educator of the Year Award ADMISSIONS Online Master of Arts in Physics Program Admission Requirements Master of Arts, Secondary Physics Education The Master of Arts, Secondary Physics Education is for currently licensed teachers only. In order to be eligible for this program you must provide: A copy of a valid teaching license. Official transcripts that demonstrate you have earned a bachelor’s degree from a recognized accredited university. An Enrollment Counselor will instruct you as to when and how to submit your teaching license prior to or during your program. Master of Arts in Teaching, Secondary Physics Education The Master of Arts in Teaching, Secondary Physics Education program is for individuals who have earned a bachelor's degree but are not currently licensed teachers. In order to be eligible for this program you must provide official transcripts that demonstrate you have earned a bachelor’s degree from a recognized, institutionally accredited (also known as regionally accredited) university AND demonstrate readiness through one of the following: Option 1: Content-related undergraduate or graduate degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 (or higher, depending upon your state) Option 2: Undergraduate or graduate degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 (or higher, depending upon your state) and 24-30 hours of content specific coursework, equivalent to a major. Option 3: Undergraduate or graduate degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 (or higher, depending upon your state), a passing score on the WGU program required basic skills test (e.g., Praxis CORE) and demonstrate content competency via one of the following pathways 1) 24-30 hours of content specific coursework, equivalent to a major OR 2) an undergraduate or graduate degree in a content-related area to which area of program you are seeking admission. This program requires a 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA (or higher, depending upon your state), or the competency-based equivalent, in your bachelor's program. Applicants with a cumulative GPA lower than a 2.5 but a 2.0 or above may seek admission by submitting passing scores from the WGU program required basic skills test (e.g. Praxis CORE).  An Enrollment Counselor can help you best determine whether you have the sufficient background for entry into your program of choice. GENERAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Transfer Credits WGU offers a generous transfer policy, but many graduate level degrees do not allow for transfer credits. Some graduate programs allow the transfer of individual courses or certifications and others do not. Please speak to an Enrollment Counselor for the specifics of your desired program. You will still need to send in your transcripts to validate your bachelor's degree—this can be done independently or with our free transcript service. TRANSFER INFORMATION Get Your Enrollment Checklist Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment. VIEW CHECKLIST Get Your Questions Answered Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor. CONTACT AN ENROLLMENT COUNSELOR Compare Physics Education Master's Programs Average Time to Completion Tuition Per 6 Months Average Salary Increase Career Opportunities Average salary increase two years post-graduation, provided by Equifax. Average time for graduate completion calculated internally by WGU. Ready to Start? 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