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Master of Science in Teacher Education

Middle Grades Science (6-8) Education Professional Internship Concentration (Post-Baccalaureate)

The MS in Teacher Education, Middle Grades Science (6-8) Education Professional Internship Concentration prepares candidates to teach science in grades 6-8. Candidates earn an undergraduate degree in a STEM field and an undergraduate minor in middle grades science education. Then they complete the Professional Year, which includes graduate coursework and a yearlong internship that leads to a master’s degree and teacher licensure. Candidates are prepared to work in diverse settings to effectively meet the individual learning needs of their students.

Undergraduates – Apply here

Post-Baccalaureates – Apply here

MS in Teacher Education, Middle Grades Science (6-8) Education Professional Internship Concentration Credit Hours
Required Courses  
TPTE 574 2-3
TPTE 575  12
TPTE 591  4
Concentration: Middle Grades Science (6-8) Education courses
TPTE 517 3
REED 543 3
Electives 6
For Thesis Option:
TPTE 500 and successful defense of the thesis
For Course only with Examination Option:
Successful completion of a comprehensive exam with a grade of Pass is required

Kristin Rearden, clinical professor and STEM / science team co-lead

Yolanda Kirkpatrick, clinical associate professor

Elizabeth MacTavish, clinical assistant professor

The Middle Grades Science Education programs are aligned to the National Science Teaching Association’s standards for teacher preparation.

Students completing the MS in Teacher Education, Middle Grades Science (6-8) Education Professional Internship Concentration have two options: 

Thesis:  30 graduate credit hours for the Thesis Option, including TPTE 500 (6 credit hours)

Non-Thesis/Project:  33 graduate credit hours for the Course Only with Comprehensive Exam Option

If you have questions about the program or the course of study, please contact:

Kristin Rearden, clinical professor and STEM instructional team co-lead

Email: krearden@utk.edu