STEM is part of our everyday lives, although many don’t know it. Our smartphones, the bridge we cross for work, and the websites we browse are all byproducts of STEM. The phrase STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Knowledgeable professionals like scientists, environmental engineers, and nurses are the fruits of STEM education.
Do you want to be at the forefront of STEM innovation and help students grow in these subjects? Consider an online STEM education PhD program. A PhD or EdD in STEM can lead to a career as a university faculty member, a K-12 education leader, a researcher, or even a curriculum designer.
This article covers everything you need to know about online STEM education PhD programs. Admission requirements for these degrees vary. Typically, qualified PhD applicants need a master’s degree in a STEM-related field and work experience in a school setting. If pursuing a rewarding career in STEM education sounds interesting, let’s begin!
What is an Online STEM Education PhD Like?
Universities design online STEM PhD programs to be flexible and convenient for their students. Rather than commuting to class, students using Wi-Fi and a laptop can connect from anywhere. Virtual learning portals like Canvas allow for easy access to study materials, teleconference lectures, and faculty.
A PhD STEM education online can take approximately four to seven years to complete. This will depend on whether a student is full-time or part-time. The credit load will generally consist of core, research, dissertation, and possibly internship units. Some programs, especially EdDs, will have in-person elements like an internship or practicum. Depending on the focus area, certain online STEM PhD programs include student teaching either in-person or online.
Each PhD in STEM education online offers a wide range of seminars, lectures, and research projects. The coursework stage will be fully online and tackle different STEM theories and topics. Part of the degree requirement involves completion of various elective courses. This allows students to explore various subjects of their interest.
Once all required coursework is complete, doctoral candidates will begin preparing for a dissertation qualifying exam. This ensures that candidates have the knowledge and skills to conduct their own research. Upon completion of this step, the remainder of the degree revolves around the dissertation. This is an exhaustive individual research project related to the field of study. Once the program approves the student’s topic, they progress to doctoral candidacy. This, of course, marks the onset of the independent research phase and the dissertation writing process.
Expect at least one or two years to prepare the dissertation. Once written, it’s time to defend it in front of a panel of academic professionals. This step may either be in person or online. In addition, it’s the final step before a student crosses the finish line to be awarded their doctoral degree.
GetEducated's Picks
- Texas Tech University Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction / STEM
- University of Massachusetts-Lowell Doctor of Education in Leadership in Schooling / STEM
- SUNY at Albany Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction / Science & Mathematics Education
Types of Online Doctoral Degrees in STEM Education
A doctorate is the highest level degree a scholar can earn. Holding this credential means you’ve become an expert in a respective academic discipline. A doctorate is more of an umbrella term for this level of academic achievement. It is divided into various titles depending on the program’s emphasis.
The two most common doctorates for STEM education are a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Doctor of Education (EdD). Besides the title, these degrees can look nearly identical. Both can require the exact number of credits and have accreditation from the same organizations. Doctoral students for each can expect similar coursework, intensive research, plus a lot of independent study.
Despite the similarities, there are some notable differences. The focus of a PhD is generally more heavily research-driven than an EdD. A PhD in STEM education provides more opportunities for a student to master one of its disciplines like engineering or science. Gaining this advanced knowledge is especially suitable for a career in research, curriculum design, or as higher education faculty. Using Mixed Methods in Educational Research, or Foundations of Research in Curriculum and Instruction, are just two examples of courses that may be offered.
Alternatively, an EdD in STEM education typically incorporates more applied practice. Students will analyze issues facing STEM and work towards solutions. Although an EdD qualifies graduates for teaching positions as well, the lens of these degrees is often focused on creating educational leaders. Someone who wants to work in education policy or administration should consider an EdD. Sample courses include STEM Instructional Design and Applications of Project-based Learning.
Both degrees are highly respected in the professional and academic world. Besides their nuances, a doctorate in STEM education online from either title can qualify you for the same education careers
6 Best Online STEM Education PhD & EdD Programs
Receiving a quality education online is more accessible than ever before. Here’s a comprehensive list of some of the best online STEM degrees available. Included is an excellent PhD in STEAM education. If you’re not familiar with STEAM, the “A” stands for arts, which is an essential complement to the other disciplines. According to the Space Foundation, collaboration, creativity, and can spark a learner’s curiosity. Whether it’s visual arts, music, dance, or design, this aspect of STEAM is interdisciplinary. Engagement can lead to innovation in other fields like science and engineering.
We selected these degrees based on price, quality, and the scope of their online learning experience. The in-state tuition for all of these programs is less than $50,000. In fact, the cheapest PhD STEM education online is approximately $28,000. The in-state tuition cost per credit ranges from $440 to $800. Each university has accreditation. This ensures that students receive an education that meets the highest standards. In addition, each degree offers coursework that is entirely online. If you’re interested in a doctorate that provides job-ready skills, then keep reading about these online STEM degrees.
Texas Tech University
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Total Cost (In-State): $27,703
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $53,407Texas Tech University offers an excellent online Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction. This hybrid program has a concentration in STEM education. Moreover, students benefit from the flexibility of fully online classes. There are, however, two in-person components to this degree: An intensive summer session designed to bolster STEM literacy and an internship at a partner educational facility. The internship will complement the program’s coursework.
This doctorate in STEM education tailors to existing educational professionals. The faculty is diverse and highly experienced. The 63 credit program includes foundational coursework, a hands-on internship, and independent study for a dissertation defense.
Students will most certainly receive an immersive experience. To begin with, they can expect to learn about current issues facing STEM, understanding research data, and methodological approaches. Then, they’ll learn how to analyze and approve existing STEM curriculums. Lastly, through extensive research, students will deepen their skills in curriculum theories, development, and design.
The goal of this STEM education PhD is to prepare educators who are expert leaders in curriculum design, research, and STEM development. Upon graduation, these individuals will be deeply rooted in STEM, primed to guide learners in acquiring sought-after skills. They will qualify STEM leadership roles in K-12 settings, university STEM professors, or even local and national leadership positions.
Qualified applicants need a master’s degree in education or a related STEM field. Additional requirements include three years of STEM-related teaching experience, college transcripts, GRE scores, resume, reference letters, a Letter of Intent, plus a writing sample.
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Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction / STEMIndiana University Online
Accreditation: HLC
Total Cost (In-State): $31,196
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $36,927Are you interested in a rewarding career that can impact STEAM classrooms? Consider Indiana University’s online Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Art Education. This program offers an innovative specialization in art education, and is 60 credit hours. All required coursework may be completed either in-person or in a virtual format. This EdD balances intensive research with hands-on practice to create job-ready candidates in a multitude of art-related environments. Whether your dream is to become a K-12 leader, a teacher educator, museum researcher, or a consultant, this degree has something for you.
Encompassing a robust curriculum, the program delves into research methodologies and mandates an in-person internship, while laying the groundwork for a dissertation. Some of the standout courses are ‘Instruction in the Context of Curriculum,’ ‘Curriculum Theory and Practice,’ ‘Curriculum Coordination/Supervision,’ and ‘Methodological Approaches to Educational Inquiry.
Students can expect to gain skills in leadership, critical thinking, team building, analysis, the social impacts of instruction, learning theories, and curriculum development. In addition, graduates will be able to help students harness their artistic creativity. Art education is a fundamental aspect to STEAM as it compliments other subjects like science.
The entirety of the program is online except the internship. This supervised field experience allows candidates to practice skills such as staff training, curriculum design, and consultation. Successful applicants need an accredited master’s degree, a 2.75 minimum undergrad GPA, a writing sample, artwork samples, letter of intent, resume, and two letters of recommendation.
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Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Art EducationIndiana University Online
Accreditation: HLC
Total Cost (In-State): $31,196
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $36,927In addition, Indiana University also offers an online Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Science Education. It is ideal for current science teachers who wish to advance their career, deepen their knowledge, and improve their existing classrooms. Whether opting for online or residential formats, students will appreciate the flexibility of this program.
The online EdD takes 60 credits to complete. With this in mind, graduation requirements include completion of major, research, elective, and dissertation-related coursework. Students must pass a qualifying and oral exam to be awarded a doctorate. Practicing applied theories is a key element of this degree. Candidates will have the opportunity to student teach at the university level as part of their degree pathway. In addition to the core curriculum, the program offers an abundance of dynamic courses. Some notable ones are ‘Demonstration and Field Strategies in Science,’ ‘Teaching Environmental Education,’ and ‘Professional Seminar in Science Education.’
Finally, doctoral candidates will have the skills to become expert educators in their chosen science field, improve their instructional techniques, develop improved curriculums, implement effective field trips for students, and gain advanced insight on industry trends. To that end, practitioners with this degree will improve the learning experience in their science-related classrooms, which is a fundamental area in STEM. The admissions department looks for applicants with an accredited master’s degree and a 2.75 minimum undergrad GPA. Candidates must submit a letter of intent, resume, and two letters of recommendation.
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Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Science EducationWestern Michigan University
Accreditation: HLC
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $37,846Western Michigan University offers an expansive collection of STEM education PhD programs. Their PhD in Science Education is one of six concentration areas students can choose from. Additionally, there are three focus areas available. This allows doctoral candidates to customize their education plan based on their career goals.
For example, they can choose a track in college science teaching, teaching with discipline-specific research, or a K-12 science curriculum and instruction. Each track features common core coursework plus subjects related to their specialization. Even more, this PhD STEM education is available fully online, in-person, or via a hybrid format.
Ideal candidates already have a science or a science education background, to begin with. Since there are a number of tracks available, the career outcomes for postgraduates are abundant. Careers as university faculty, science education researchers, science department chairs, government employees, or even teacher educators are just the handful of opportunities available.
In order to graduate, students are required to complete coursework in Science Education, Research Tools, and Dissertation-related subjects. The program is structured around 48 credit hours and typically takes about four years to finish. Some of the notable courses in the curriculum are ‘Curriculum Studies in Science Education,’ ‘Science and Historical and Philosophical Perspectives.’ Additionally, the ‘Science Education Seminar,’ must be taken three times.
Students will learn about the philosophy of science, cognitive science, the connection between technology and science, educational research, teaching models, and curriculum analysis. Each skill will broaden their knowledge which will ultimately improve the way their future students learn. All in all, the program strives to create expert science researchers and educators.
Qualified applicants for this PhD STEM education online need a master’s degree in a science discipline, science education, or a concentration in science. Also, prospective candidates must submit a resume, three recommendation letters, a Letter of Intent, and official transcripts from prior degrees.
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Doctor of Philosophy in Science EducationSUNY at Albany
Accreditation:MSCHE
Total Cost (In-State): $38,190
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $44,112Another great offering in our list of online STEM PhD programs is with the University of Albany. It has a comprehensive PhD in STEM education online. Their PhD in Curriculum and Instruction includes a Science and Mathematics Education concentration. Students may pursue their degree fully online. There are both asynchronous and synchronous components to the program.
For doctoral candidacy admission, students must complete core coursework, specialization courses, electives, research-driven classes, a research tool exam, dissertation qualifying exam, and finally a dissertation. The STEM education PhD includes 63 credit hours that takes approximately four years to finish. During the entire process, students will have access to experienced faculty. Internships and field experience opportunities are available as part of this program. The university aims, without a doubt, to create a positive learning community for its students.
Initially, students can expect to learn about the principles of curriculum development, instruction foundations, and research methodologies. They will also gain understanding of critical issues regarding educational theory and perform advanced studies to address these problems. Furthermore, classrooms will tackle modern issues facing science, math, and computer science. Most important, candidates can select from a wide variety of courses based on their interests and career goals.
Doctoral candidates will undoubtedly be able to apply their acquired skills in many settings that involve mathematics and science. This PhD is suited for future higher education faculty, K-12 leaders, and continuing education instructors. To sum up, this program will lead to improved student learning in STEM settings. Potential careers include educational researcher, professor, or instructional designer.
Application requirements include GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, a Statement of Purpose and official transcripts, not to mention a master’s degree in a related field like science or mathematics.
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Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction / Science & Mathematics EducationUniversity of the Southwest
Accreditation: HLC
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $47,940The last program on our online STEM degrees list is from the University of the Southwest. Their EdD in STEM Education offers numerous benefits to those who enroll. The program is fully online, while providing a free laptop, health insurance, and textbooks to all its students. Besides these perks, the program boasts a cutting-edge learning platform.
This is a practitioner program, which ensures that students have ample opportunities to hone their skills in innovative learning settings. Throughout their academic journey, candidates have the option to engage in either a virtual or in-person residency, allowing them to network with industry experts and guest lecturers. Some of the illustrative courses in this EdD program include ‘Equity, Policy, & Social Justice in STEM Education,’ ‘Current Issues and Trends in STEM Education,’ and ‘Nature of Inquiry in STEM Education.’
The curriculum prepares 21st century STEM educators to work in settings like universities and K-12 schools. The program’s educational domains include leadership foundations, organizational dynamics and change, strategic planning, and research. Furthermore, for those already immersed in STEM education or teaching any of the four STEM disciplines, this program is an ideal avenue to elevate their expertise.
The EdD in STEM Education is 60 credit hours long including core, research preparation, STEM, and dissertation coursework. Students will also learn how to conduct educational research, provide equitable learning experiences, become an instructional leader, evaluate teaching standards, and develop new STEM methodologies. Qualified applicants must hold an accredited master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and three years of STEM field experience. In addition, they must submit official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and an admission essay.
Firstly, this doctorate is ideal for professionals already employed in the educational field with STEM-related experience. Additionally, those who wish to advance into higher positions, or improve STEM systems would benefit from this degree.
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Doctor of Education in STEM Education
STEM Career Outlook
Is a doctorate or PhD STEM education online degree valuable? Utilizing our curated list of top online STEM degrees can open doors to a multitude of career opportunities. The vast number of well-paying job prospects makes this degree highly competitive. Both STEM education PhD and EdD programs pave the way for numerous fulfilling careers. Here are some examples:
- University Faculty: These professionals need a license in the state where they work. The median salary for this position is $80,840 per year. What’s more, there’s a 12% projected job growth over the next ten years.
- K-12 Teacher: A license is needed for this position. K-5 teachers have a median salary of $61,350. Middle school teachers have a $61,320 median salary. There is a 4% projected job growth for the next ten years for both positions. High school teachers have a median salary of $61,820 per year. There is a 5% projected growth for this role over the next ten years.
- Instructional Coordinator: This role designs curriculums for different school settings. A teaching license may be required depending on the state. Besides a $63,740 median salary, there’s a 7% projected growth rate over the next ten years.
Get Started in a STEM Education PhD Today!
Such a qualification not only unlocks numerous professional opportunities but also promises fulfilling careers. In our ever-evolving, innovative world, the demand for a skilled STEM workforce has never been higher. Who will train, motivate, and prepare future generations for success? It could be you! If you want to be at the forefront of positive change in people’s lives, then consider an EdD or PhD in STEM education online.