Science and the Public, EdM

Our master's program in science and the public focuses on preparing you to engage in public activities and debates related to science, promote science literacy and understanding in the public at large, and promote scholarship in science and humanism, science and public policy, and science in the political, religious and secular environments.

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Why Science and the Public at UB?

The features of our program include:

  • learning how to develop and implement public policy decisions that provide solutions for our 21st century science and technological challenges 
  • learning how to engage in public activities and debates related to science
  • learning how to influence and promote science understanding in the public

Program Overview

Academic credential granted Master of Education
Credits required for completion 30
Time to completion 4 to 5 part-time semesters
Course delivery Online
Careers Work in organizations such as:
  • Government and legislative offices 
  • Informal science institutions such as museums, science centers and zoos
  • K-12 schools
  • Mass media
  • Research institutions
  • Science and technology corporations
Application deadline Priority Deadlines

Spring: Nov. 1, then rolling until Dec. 1
Fall: Feb. 1, then rolling until July 15

Program Coursework

Required Courses (30 credits)

  • CEP 500 Fundamentals of Educational Research
  • CEP 532 Understanding Statistical Research
  • LAI 505 Scientific Writing
  • LAI 524 Critical Thinking
  • LAI 525 Science, Technology and Human Values
  • LAI 531 Science Curricula: Current Approaches
  • LAI 575 Seminar in Informal Science Education
  • LAI 639 History and Philosophy of Science
  • LAI 648 Research Ethics
  • LAI 700 Capstone Project (3 credits)

Application Requirements

You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, an adequate science background (i.e., at least three undergraduate level science courses). 

Submit your completed online application, which includes:

  • Application fee: A $50 non-refundable application fee, submitted electronically through UB's ePayment system.
  • Unofficial transcripts from all colleges attended. (UB transcripts are automatically submitted for current UB students and alumni.)
  • Contact information for two individuals who will each be asked to provide an electronic recommendation letter.
  • Statement of education and career goals

Former/Maiden Name: Please provide us with your former/maiden name if you have one. When requesting transcripts, please ask the sending institution to indicate your current name and former/maiden name.

Admissions Decision: The admissions decision will be communicated to you as soon as review is complete. The decision is based on a number of factors and is the result of a thorough and deliberate process. All decisions are final and cannot be appealed.

International Applicant Additional Requirements
  • Official original proof of your degree
  • A copy of your passport biographical page
  • Official test scores for either the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic. Test scores must be dated within two years of submitting your application.
    • TOEFL minimum score is a 250 for a computer based test, 600 for a paper based test and 96 for the Internet based test 
    • IELTS minimum score is 7.0 overall
    • PTE minimum score is 55 overall
  • Financial documentation — International graduate applicants must document their ability to pay for all costs incurred while studying in the U.S.
  • An official bank statement

All financial forms and supporting documentation with required signatures must be uploaded with your application, and must be dated within one year of your intended enrollment date.

Are you an international student and unable to take the IELTS, PTE or TOEFL?

If you are currently unable to take the IELTS, PTE or TOEFL tests because they are canceled due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the University at Buffalo will accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) for proof of English proficiency. This test can be taken online, in your own home. More information can be found on the Graduate School’s website.

The TOEFL iBT® Special Home Edition is a safe and convenient option for students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT test at a test center due to public health concerns.

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Tuition Information
University Computing Standards

You are required to have daily access to a reliable broadband connection and a computer that meets university computing standards. You are also expected to have basic computer competency before beginning your coursework.