Everything you need to know about a master of education (STEM)
Are you considering a master of Education (STEM)? The course is the perfect way to deepen your knowledge and move into a more senior role where you can inspire staff and support students. Before you begin the course, ensure you have all the necessary information to determine if it is the right course for you.
Our brief guide today will walk you through everything you need to know about the master of Education (STEM) and whether it is the right course for you, including its content, entry requirements, and career outcomes.
What is a master of education (STEM)?
A Master of Education (STEM) is a postgraduate course that enables you to build on your foundational STEM skills and deepen your understanding of STEM pedagogical frameworks, spatial thinking, inclusion, and wellbeing strategies, thereby enhancing teaching practices, student outcomes, and engagement. The course is split into eight units, taking 16 months to complete, with the option to study full-time, part-time, or online. Online studying allows you to study at a time that suits you, with complete flexibility.
The course is designed for current teachers and can be completed alongside your current role or any commitments you have. The course will utilise evidence-based research to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive. Each course will be slightly different, depending on the course provider. We recommend speaking directly with the course provider to learn more and determine if it is right for you.
What will I learn in a master of Education (STEM)?
What you will learn in a master of Education (STEM) will vary depending on the course provider you choose. You will learn about the methods to boost student engagement and outcomes in STEM education, while you also gain in-demand skills in educational wellbeing and inclusion.
The course is usually divided into four core units, taught on most Master of Education courses, and four STEM units. The unit titles and content can vary, but most courses will have overlapping content, and you can expect the following titles:
Core units
- Educational research foundations
- Inclusion in education
- Professional practice capstone
- Wellbeing in education
STEM units
- Spatial thinking
- STEM pedagogy, foundational theory
- STEM and design thinking
- STEM practices and learning opportunities
What do I need to pursue a Master of Education (STEM)?
Your entry requirements for a master of Education (STEM) will vary depending on the course provider you choose. We recommend checking with the course provider before applying to ensure you meet the requirements. Typically, you will need one of the following:
- Registration as a teacher at a proficient level or higher with an Australian regulatory authority/registration authority
- A three-year undergraduate degree in Education or a relevant field, and three years of FTE professional experience in education
- Graduate and/or postgraduate education qualifications
You should check with your course provider to determine what constitutes professional experience, ensuring you have the relevant experience. You might also need to meet additional requirements if English is not your first language. The requirements you need to meet will vary depending on your course provider; therefore, please contact them directly to learn more.
When learning more about the entry requirements, it’s worth considering the course fees and how you will pay for them as well. While studying online tends to be a cheaper option, the fees can still be expensive. Many course providers offer fee assistance, including loans and grants, which can help reduce the fees. With online courses, you can also spread the cost by paying for one unit at a time, making the course more manageable. You can discuss these options and costs with the admissions office for your course provider to learn more about them.
What can I do with a master of Education (STEM)?
After completing your master of Education (STEM), you will be able to move into higher positions within the education sector, where you can provide students with the best STEM learning experience. Many graduates find themselves in the following roles:
- Assistant principal
- Curriculum coordinator or specialist (STEM)
- Education assessment specialist (STEM)
- Executive teacher (STEM)
- Head of faculty or department (STEM)
Start your postgraduate education course today
A master of education (STEM) can be the perfect way to enhance your career and move into a new role in your career. The University of Canberra offers a fantastic course where you can study online to complete your master’s and get the skills you need to thrive in a STEM education role. Explore their master’s program in STEM education to determine if it’s the right fit for you.
