Department of STEM Education

Help students discover STEM

Study how science and mathematics are taught, understood, and experienced in real classrooms. If you enjoy problem solving, inquiry, and helping students make sense of the world through data, experimentation, and discovery, STEM Education could be a strong fit.

With a degree in STEM Education, you can pursue a career as a middle or high school science or math teacher, instructional leader, curriculum specialist, STEM coordinator, or researcher, and work in K-12 schools, high education settings, research centers, non-profits, or education-focused organizations. 

Why study STEM Education at NAU

Theory and practice are integrated into the classroom from the very start across all programs. Strong partnerships with schools and districts and an active research culture create a dynamic environment where teaching, learning, and innovation continuously build on one another. 

As an undergraduate student in NAUTeach, you’ll step into real classrooms in your first semester, building confidence while developing skills in instructional design, assessment for learning, student engagement, and inclusive teaching practices.

As a graduate student in the Master of Arts in Science Teaching (MAST), you’ll apply coursework directly to your own classroom, strengthening content knowledge and pedagogy while continuing to teach. As a Doctoral student, you’ll collaborate with faculty through the Center for STEM Teaching and Learning to develop research expertise and leadership skills. 

Learning outcomes

As a STEM Education major at NAU, you will:

• understand how learners grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas.
• design and implement developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.
• connect concepts and use differing perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative problem-solving related to authentic local and global issues. 
• use a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop a deep understanding of content areas and their connections, and to build skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways.
• apply multiple assessment methods to engage learners in their growth, monitor learner progress, and guide the teacher’s and learner’s decision-making. 

Student clubs and organizations

Share teaching strategies, develop leadership skills, engage in outreach, and build networks you’ll have for life by joining a student club or organization dedicated to STEM Education.

Center for STEM Teaching and Learning (CSTL)

Participate in outreach and research through the Center for STEM Teaching and Learning which connects NAU with schools, districts, and organizations across Arizona. CSTL supports projects that strengthen STEM instruction, promote equity in science and math classrooms, and expand access to high-quality learning experiences. Through CSTL, you’ll gain interactive experience and contribute to work that is shaping how STEM is taught across Arizona.

Place-based learning

Surrounded by schools, research centers, and natural laboratories like the Grand Canyon and Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff is the ideal place to explore how local contexts can deeper science and mathematics learning. These experiences will reinforce your curiosity and help you connect STEM concepts to the world we live in.

Dedicated support

Small classes, accessible faculty, a close-knit community, and ample resources provide you with all the support you need to achieve your goals and succeed at NAU.

Faculty mentorship

STEM Education faculty are invested in your success and bring their expertise as researchers and educators in science and mathematics education to every interaction. Through their guidance, you’ll examine not only what and how to teach STEM, but why, developing the perspective needed to become a thoughtful, adaptive, and impactful educator.

Scholarships and financial assistance

As a STEM Education student, you’ll benefit from significant financial support. Highly competitive NSF Noyce Scholarships can cover all tuition costs and provide continued support during your first year in the classroom. Another full-tuition program, Arizona Teachers Academy (ATA), covers your tuition in exchange for a commitment to teach in Arizona after graduation (if eligible). Additional departmental and college-level scholarships offer additional support, helping students focus on achieving their professional goals. Check out Scholarship Universe for additional scholarships you may qualify for.

Career readiness

You're not just earning a degree, you’re preparing to launch your career. NAUTeach graduates are in demand across the state and so most step straight into teaching roles after graduation.

If you’re already teaching, the MSAT program helps you strengthen your practice while staying in your classroom, supporting your growth as an instructional leader. Doctoral students build research experience alongside faculty to prepare for careers in higher education, research, and educational leadership. No matter your path, STEM Education at NAU prepares you for a career that's built to make a significant impact.