Online MS Degree in STEM Education and Society

Today’s educational landscape requires STEM educators to not only master content but also apply it to real-world problems such as climate change and social inequities. With the rapid evolution of technology and its application in society, students must be prepared to approach STEM fields with both technical expertise and ethical awareness. Moreover, the focus on equity and social justice in the program reflects the need for educators to address the underrepresentation of marginalized groups in STEM, ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education. These outcomes empower graduates to lead change within their classrooms, schools, and the broader society, contributing to more just and sustainable futures.

The master’s program in STEM Education and Society reflects Drexel University’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. Rooted in the university’s mission to prepare graduates to become purpose-driven professionals, the program emphasizes the development of adaptable, learner-centered curricula that respond to the evolving needs of their communities. Its integration of STEM disciplines supports the university's commitment to creating adaptable curricula that meet the needs of all learners. The program cultivates a culture of collaboration and continuous growth, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to a more connected educational landscape.

What Will Students Learn in the Online MS in ESTS?

• Critical Understanding of STEM Education Theories and Practices
  Graduates will critically analyze and apply foundational and contemporary theories in STEM education, focusing on research-based instructional strategies and diverse pedagogical methods.
• Application of STEM to Real-World Challenges
  Graduates will demonstrate the ability to integrate STEM knowledge to design solutions to pressing societal challenges such as climate change, healthcare, energy, and infrastructure.
• Commitment to Excellence and Access in STEM
  Graduates will be able to implement teaching practices that promote meaningful participation, broaden engagement, and ensure high-quality learning experiences for all students in STEM education, with attention to removing barriers and expanding opportunity.
• Design-Based Research and Innovation in STEM
  Graduates will use design-based research methods to develop, implement, and evaluate innovative STEM learning experiences, focusing on improving educational practices in K-12 and informal learning environments.
• Leadership in STEM Education and Community Engagement
  Graduates will be equipped to take on leadership roles in schools, communities, and policy settings, advocating for STEM education that promotes civic engagement and societal improvement.

MS in LSTC Online Program Features & Benefits

• Interdisciplinary, Issue-Centered Curriculum
  Students explore real-world issues—such as environmental change, public health, and civic engagement—through STEM content. Courses like Water, STEM and Society and Gardens in the City connect scientific ideas with community challenges.
• Student-Centered STEM Teaching
  The program prepares educators to create learning environments that support STEM success for all learners. Emphasis is placed on designing instruction that is responsive, accessible, and connected to students’ lives and communities.
• Flexible Delivery: Online and Hybrid Options
  Designed for working professionals, the program can be completed fully online or through a hybrid format with in-person opportunities. This flexibility allows students to stay connected to their local contexts while engaging in a collaborative graduate experience. This program consists of fully online courses and courses that include field/community based (synchronous/hybrid) sessions.
• Practice-Based and Research-Driven
  Learning is hands-on and applied. From community-based projects to digital tools for teaching, students apply what they learn in real-world contexts. The capstone is grounded in design-based research, allowing students to pilot, test, and refine innovative ideas.
• Connected to Drexel’s Urban, Civic, and STEM Ecosystem
  Leveraging Drexel’s strength in civic engagement, technology, and experiential learning, the program integrates campus resources, community partnerships, and research centers to provide a rich, supportive environment for professional growth.

Online MS in STEM Education and Society Courses, and Curriculum

The Online MS in STEM Education and Society at Drexel University offers a dynamic, fully online curriculum designed to explore the intersection of STEM learning, equity, and community engagement. Courses are delivered through a combination of asynchronous instruction and optional synchronous or hybrid field-based experiences. Admission is available exclusively in the fall term.

Career Outlook for Learning Sciences, Technology, & Creativity

The MS in STEM Education and Society is designed for current and aspiring educators, instructional leaders, and professionals who are passionate about making STEM learning meaningful, and connected to real-world issues.

The program is ideal for:

• PK–12 Teachers who want to deepen their content knowledge and gain tools to design engaging, interdisciplinary STEM experiences.
• Postsecondary Instructors and Adjunct Faculty looking to strengthen their teaching practices and integrate applied STEM topics into their classrooms.
• Education Leaders and Curriculum Specialists interested in leading innovation in STEM instruction within schools, districts, or community programs.
• Informal Educators working in museums, community organizations, or out-of-school programs who seek to expand their impact through STEM.
• Career Changers with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, or related fields who want to transition into education or instructional design (Note: additional/separate pathways required for certification).
• Professionals in Learning and Development roles within nonprofits, corporations, or government agencies looking to build capacity in STEM learning design.

What Can You Do with an MS in STEM Education?

Graduates are prepared for roles such as:

• STEM or instructional coaches
• Curriculum and instructional designers
• PK–12 STEM educators and coordinators
• Community-based or informal education leaders
• Postsecondary instructors or academic support professionals
• Program managers in nonprofits, corporations, or education-focused agencies

Learn More about Drexel University’s Online MS in STEM Education & Society

Pursuing an MS in STEM Education and Society at Drexel University means becoming part of a vibrant, mission-driven community of educators, researchers, and changemakers. This fully online program is designed to connect students with peers, faculty, and local partners who are passionate about using STEM education to make a meaningful impact. Through collaborative coursework and community-based learning experiences, students gain the tools to lead and inspire in both formal and informal educational settings.

FAQs on MS in Learning Sciences, Technology, and Creativity

What is the MS in ESTS program designed to do?

The MS in STEM Education and Society is designed to prepare educators, instructional designers, and learning leaders to apply STEM knowledge to address real-world challenges. The program blends interdisciplinary STEM content with design-based research, educational technology, and teaching practices to equip graduates to lead innovative learning environments in both formal and informal settings.

What skills will I gain from the ESTS program?
Graduates will develop a broad and practical skill set, including:

• Designing STEM learning experiences that are responsive to diverse learners
• Integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with real-world issues
• Applying learning theory and critical perspectives in classroom and community settings
• Using data and research to improve instructional practices
• Leveraging digital tools and computing to support teaching and learning
• Collaborating across disciplines to support a socially relevant education

Who should apply to this program?
The program is ideal for:

• PK–12 educators seeking to innovate and lead in STEM instruction
• Postsecondary instructors and adjunct faculty aiming to enhance
• STEM-focused teaching Informal educators (e.g., museum educators, nonprofit staff) who design or deliver
• STEM programming Professionals transitioning into education from STEM or technology-related industries
• Curriculum specialists and education leaders focused on creating engaging STEM experiences

Can I complete the program online?
The MS in STEM Education and Society offers a flexible structure that combines fully online coursework with hybrid courses that include synchronous sessions tied to field, community and/or lab-based experiences. This allows all students to participate in hands-on, place-based learning experiences that connect course concepts to real-world practice.

Is there a capstone or final project?
Yes. All students complete a capstone project rooted in design-based research, allowing them to identify a real-world STEM education challenge, design an instructional response, implement it in practice, and reflect on its impact. The capstone is both rigorous and practical—giving students the tools to lead innovation in their own educational settings.

Do I need a STEM degree to apply?
No. While prior experience or coursework in STEM is helpful, it is not required. The program welcomes applicants from a range of educational and professional backgrounds who are committed to supporting STEM learning and applying it to community challenges.

State restrictions may apply to some programs.