The Department of Chemistry and Physics provides graduate training through advanced courses, seminars, and research leading to an M.S. degree in chemistry. To meet these objectives, the department requires broad knowledge of fundamental chemical principles and specialized knowledge of advanced topics in the research area. Course programs are arranged on an individual basis by a faculty advisory committee consisting of the thesis director and two other faculty members. The science course content is coordinated with the elementary curriculum and is relevant to elementary classroom instruction.
Instruction emphasizes the integration of and connection between the various science disciplines.
Classroom instruction focuses on and is centered in hands-on instruction. The science education courses focus on enhancing leadership and mentoring abilities, on familiarization with contemporary science-reform programs, and on familiarization with contemporary instructional materials and classroom technology. COSI encourages and nurtures conceptual development which involves critical thinking and incorporates technological advancement. The courses are team taught by scientists and educators. Coursework for the master's degree can be completed in four to five years.