Physics Education (MSIS) The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies in Physics Education offers the student an opportunity to acquire a general knowledge of Physics to understand the teaching methods to develop skills in critical analysis and to conduct interdisciplinary scientific research. The Department of Physics and Geology offers a 36-hour program leading to a master of science in interdisciplinary studies (MSIS) in physics education with thesis and non-thesis options. These options are designed to prepare students in their pursuit of further professional development and for interdisciplinary graduate studies in their area of concentration in physics.. Apply to the UTRGV Graduate College: Step #1: Submit a UTRGV Graduate Application at www.applytexas.org. The university application fee of $50 ($100 for International Applicants) can be paid online by credit card or electronic check (in the online application). All application fees are nonrefundable. Step #2: Register on the UTRGV Recommenders and Document Upload Webpage (www.utrgv.edu/gradupload). This is where you will request recommenders and upload program requirement documents, and where the graduate office will upload your transcripts. If you do not complete this step, we will not be able to process your application. Step #3: Request your transcripts and other supporting documentation to be mailed to: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley The Graduate College Marialice Shary Shivers Bldg. 1.158 1201 W. University Drive Edinburg, TX 78539-2999 Personal statement detailing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the graduate degree. Two letters of recommendation from referees conversant with the candidate’s academic background. Resume. Additional requirements for domestic applicants who attended foreign universities: TOEFL or IELTS Language Proficiency Test with minimum scores: 550 on paper-based, 213 on computer based, or 79 on internet-based for the TOEFL; 6.5 for the IELTS. TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for 2 years. For additional information, click here. English translation of educational records. Transcript Evaluation by the Foreign Credentials Service of America (FCSA). For additional information, click here. Additional requirements for international applicants: TOEFL or IELTS Language Proficiency Test with minimum scores: 550 on paper-based, 213 on computer based, or 79 on internet-based for the TOEFL; 6.5 for the IELTS. TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for 2 years. For additional information, click here. English translation of educational records. Transcript Evaluation by the Foreign Credentials Service of America (FCSA). For additional information, click here. Financial Documentation showing sufficient funds (minimum of $25,000) to cover all expenses (living and academic) for the first year of study. For additional information, click here. Immigration documents, including a current copy of your valid passport. For additional information, click here. Program Contact Review and submit all Program Requirements: Admission Requirement s Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or a recognized international equivalent in a similar or related field. Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Official transcripts from each institution attended (must be submitted directly to UTRGV). Program Director: Dr. Richard Kline E-Mail: [email protected] Phone: (956) 882-5789 Deadlines Domestic International Last Revised May 2015 www.utrgv.edu/grad Fall July 1 June 1 Spring November 15 October 1 Summer I May 1 TBD Summer II June 1 April 1 Program Requirements Thesis Option: Required Courses PHYS 5404: Physics by Inquiry I PHYS 5405: Physics by Inquiry II PHYS 6400: Astronomy by Sight 12 4 4 4 Education Courses 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: EDCI 6304: Assessment of Learning 3 EDCI 6306: Special Topics in Education 3 EDCI 6307: Research Issues and Trends 3 EDCI 6308: Advanced Educational Research 3 EDCI 6344: Assessment, Current Issues and Research in Science Education 3 EDCI 7334: Curriculum Problems and Processes 3 EDFR 6300: Research Methods in Education 3 Interdisciplinary Area Choose one area from the following: Chemistry 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: CHEM 6302: Teaching Environmental Sciences 3 CHEM 6330: Special Topics in Organic Chemistry 3 CHEM 6340: Special Topics in Inorganic Chemistry 3 CHEM 6350: Special Topics in Analytical Chemistry 3 CHEM 6360: Special Topics in Physical Chemistry 3 CHEM 6370: Special Topics in Chemical Education 3 CHEM 6380: Special Topics in Biochemistry 3 Educational Technology 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: EDTC 6320: Instructional Technology 3 EDTC 6321: Instructional Design 3 EDTC 6323: Multimedia/Hypermedia 3 EDTC 6329: Selected Topics in Educational Technology 3 EDTC 6341: Student‐Centered Learning Using Technology 3 Mathematics 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: MATH 6307: Collegiate Mathematics Teaching 3 MATH 6309: Integrating Technology into Mathematics 3 MATH 6310: Mathematics Teaching and Learning 3 MATH 6325: Contemporary Geometry 3 MATH 6328: Special Topics in Mathematics Teaching 3 Capstone Requirement Thesis PHYS 7300: Thesis I PHYS 7301: Thesis II 6 3 3 Total hours required for degree: 36 N on‐T hes is Option: Required Courses PHYS 5404: Physics by Inquiry I PHYS 5405: Physics by Inquiry II PHYS 6400: Astronomy by Sight 12 4 4 4 Physical Science Electives Choose from the following: GEOL 5301: Geology and Geography GEOL 5302: Meteorology and Oceanography GEOL 6410: Geoscience for Teachers PHYS 6301: Topics in Physics for Teachers 6 3 3 4 3 PHYS 6302: Environmental Physics for Teachers PHYS 6303: Quantum Information 3 3 Education Courses 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: EDCI 6304: Assessment of Learning 3 EDCI 6306: Special Topics in Education 3 EDCI 6307: Research Issues and Trends 3 EDCI 6308: Advanced Educational Research 3 EDCI 6344: Assessment, Current Issues and Research in Science Education 3 EDCI 7334: Curriculum Problems and Processes 3 EDFR 6300: Research Methods in Education 3 Interdisciplinary Area EDTC 6329: Selected Topics in Educational Technology 3 EDTC 6341: Student‐Centered Learning Using Technology 3 Mathematics 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: MATH 6307: Collegiate Mathematics Teaching 3 MATH 6309: Integrating Technology into Mathematics 3 MATH 6310: Mathematics Teaching and Learning 3 MATH 6325: Contemporary Geometry 3 MATH 6328: Special Topics in Mathematics Teaching 3 Capstone Requirement Written Comprehensive Exam Choose one area from the following: Total hours required for degree: Chemistry 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: CHEM 6302: Teaching Environmental Sciences 3 CHEM 6330: Special Topics in Organic Chemistry 3 CHEM 6340: Special Topics in Inorganic Chemistry 3 CHEM 6350: Special Topics in Analytical Chemistry 3 CHEM 6360: Special Topics in Physical Chemistry 3 CHEM 6370: Special Topics in Chemical Education 3 CHEM 6380: Special Topics in Biochemistry 3 Educational Technology 9 Choose from the following recommended courses: EDTC 6320: Instructional Technology 3 EDTC 6321: Instructional Design 3 EDTC 6323: Multimedia/Hypermedia 3 36 Course Descriptions CHEM 6302: Teaching Environmental Sciences [3‐0] May include environmental sciences, environmental education, and hands‐on environmental experience. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours credit. Prerequisite: Acceptance into Chemistry Graduate Program and/or instructor’s permission. CHEM 6330: Special Topics in Organic Chemistry [3‐0] May include advanced organic preparative laboratory, advanced organic synthesis, polymer synthesis, polymer physics and engineering and organic nanomaterials. Prerequisite: CHEM 2303. CHEM 6340: Special Topics in Inorganic Chemistry [3‐0] May include advance biochemical techniques, protein biochemistry, biotechnology, critical developments in biochemistry, advanced training and conduct in biochemistry, enzymes biochemistry and clinical biochemistry. Prerequisites: Undergraduate Biochemistry, CHEM 3303. CHEM 6350: Special Topics in Analytical Chemistry [3‐0] May include clinical instrumentation, quality control/quality assurance, chemical separations, laser analytical chemistry, advance instrumental laboratory investigations, environmental chemistry, geochemistry, marine chemistry and forensic sciences. Prerequisites: Undergraduate Analytical Chemistry, CHEM 2301. CHEM 6360: Special Topics in Physical Chemistry [3‐0] May include quantum chemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, statistical mechanics, group theory and nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: Undergraduate Physical Chemistry I & II, CHEM 3304 and CHEM 3305. CHEM 6370: Special Topics in Chemical Education [3‐0] Special topics for the enhancement of chemical education including chemistry, technology, environmental science and other related topics. Prerequisite: Assigned teaching duties or graduate student status. May be repeated for credit up to 9 hours. CHEM 6380: Special Topics in Biochemistry [3‐0] May include advance biochemical techniques, protein biochemistry, biotechnology, critical developments in biochemistry, advanced training and conduct in biochemistry, enzymes biochemistry and clinical biochemistry. Prerequisite: Undergraduate Biochemistry, CHEM 3303. EDCI 6304: Assessment of Learning [3‐0] An introduction to basic concepts, techniques and issues in assessment of student learning and learning environments. [Prescribed elective for all students who do not have a required assessment course in their specialization] EDCI 6306: Special Topics in Education [3‐0] Students will engage in projects focused on causing change to occur in public schools. Topics must be approved by the instructor. The primary student work product from the course will be either a project proposal or a final project report. Course may be repeated for credit when topics changes. EDCI 6307: Research Issues and Trends [3‐0] Research as well as current issues and trends within the field of education. A course designed to broaden the professional’s understanding of the impact and implications of research, controversial issues and trends both within the society and within the field of education. May be repeated for credit for maximum of nine hours when topics vary. EDCI 6308: Advanced Educational Research [3‐0] An examination of the role in education of the discipline or field of study selected by the student. Includes an intensive study of research findings, scholarly publications and advanced experimentation with a focus on the improvement of instruction. EDCI 6344: Assessment, Current Issues and Research in Science Education [3‐0] This course includes selected studies of current issues and problems related to science assessment, instruction and curriculum development within a research framework that leads to science education reform. A mentoring assignment, technology and field work is required. EDCI 7334: Curriculum Problems and Processes [3‐0] This course examines approaches in developing, implementing and evaluating curricula. Principles and practices in the production and use of curriculum frameworks, guides, textbooks, technologies and other curriculum materials will be included. EDFR 6300: Research Methods in Education [3‐0] A survey of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designed to introduce students to educational research. This course will include research design, literature review, critiquing research, and action research. EDTC 6320: Instructional Technology [3‐0] This course provides a history and overview of the field of instructional technology. Demonstrations of technologies in different educational settings are explored. Practical and theoretical means for ascertaining the needs of learners, implementations of specific technologies to meet those needs, and assessment of effectiveness of those technologies in meeting learner's needs are presented. EDTC 6321: Instructional Design [3‐0] This course uses an instructional systems design model to guide the student in systematically developing effective Instruction. Theoretical and practical issues in instructional systems design are examined. Other instructional design models are introduced. EDTC 6323: Multimedia/Hypermedia [3‐0] This course concentrates on the development and utilization of hypermedia and multimedia in education. Students are expected to demonstrate the ability to develop an interactive instruction by utilizing audiovisual technologies and computer‐based/Web‐based technologies in a meaningful, educational context. Prerequisite: EDTC 6321. EDTC 6329: Selected Topics in Educational Technology [3‐0] This course addresses the study of significant topics related to utilization of technology in educational settings. With approval by advisor, course may be repeated when topic varies. EDTC 6341: Student‐Centered Learning Using Technology [3‐0] This course provides the teacher/trainer with the skills and conceptual knowledge for instructional design and development of student‐centered learning activities in learning environments. The course also addresses critical issues in the instructional design and development process, including effective modifications of instruction that uses advanced technologies for special needs students, and mentoring other faculty members. GEOL 5301: Geology and Geography [3‐0] Geology and Geography is an integrated course focusing on physical geology and physical geography. It explores the diverse processes that continuously shape our planet. Develops an understanding of earth materials, how the earthworks, the causes of natural disasters, the importance of geologic time, and the fundamentals of geography. Topics include minerals, rocks, volcanoes, radioactive dating, earthquakes, plate tectonics, rivers and floods, groundwater resources, deserts, glaciers, the nature of maps, map projections, global positioning system, geographic information systems and fundamental aspects of remote sensing. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. GEOL 5302: Meteorology and Oceanography [3‐0] This is a course in the behavior of the atmosphere and ocean, and the linkages between them. The first part of the course will discuss the physics behind the behavior of the atmosphere and how the resulting differences in temperature and pressure give rise to the global wind and weather patterns observed. The second part will cover how wind drives ocean current circulation and waves, the origin of astronomical tides and how the physical and geological conditions in the ocean influence life. Special attention will be paid to the role of the ocean and atmosphere in global change. Prerequisite: GEOL 5301. GEOL 6410: Geoscience for Teachers [3‐3] This course is specifically designed to provide a broad intensive overview of the GMO (geology, meteorology and oceanography) subject areas for practicing teachers. It consists of a series of class and laboratory‐based modules that will enable teachers to effectively implement GMO sections into their existing curriculum. This course follows an inquiry‐based approach based on understanding and using the scientific method, data collection and analysis as appropriate for each of the three modules. Meteorology introduces the teachers to atmosphere, weather and climate systems; oceanography covers global oceans, coastal systems and the effects of human impact; while the geology module provides overviews of the history of geology, basic rocks and minerals, fossils, geomorphology, plate tectonics and geologic hazards such as earthquakes and volcanoes. Prerequisite: GEOL 5301. MATH 6307: Collegiate Mathematics Teaching [3‐0] This course provides opportunities for students to have a practical experience in teaching college‐level mathematics courses supervised by faculty. Prerequisite: Departmental approval. MATH 6309: Integrating Technology into Mathematics [3‐0] This is an introductory course related to the latest technological computer programs, especially in mathematics. It covers some of the following educational computer softwares: graphing calculator, dynamic geometry, computer algebra systems, publishing softwares and some multimedia and internet related softwares. Prerequisite: Departmental approval. MATH 6310: Mathematics Teaching and Learning [3‐0] This course examines issues, trends and research related to the teaching/learning of secondary school mathematics. Specific topics will vary, but could include: technology in the classroom, mathematical problem solving and the use of applications in the teaching of mathematics. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in mathematics. MATH 6325: Contemporary Geometry [3‐0] This course contains selected topics in computational, combinatorial and differential geometry as well as combinatorial topology. Topics include the point location problem, triangulations, Voronoi diagrams and Delaunay triangulations, plane curves and curvature, surfaces and polyhedrons and Euler characteristic. Prerequisite: Departmental approval. MATH 6328: Special Topics in Mathematics Teaching [3‐0] A critical analysis of issues, trends and historical developments in elementary and/or secondary mathematics teaching with emphasis on the areas of curriculum and methodology. This course may be repeated for credit when topic changes. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in mathematics. PHYS 5404: Physics by Inquiry I [3‐3] Physics by Inquiry I introduces students to guided inquiry‐based modules that are specifically designed to prepare prospective and practicing teachers (K‐12) to teach science as a process of "learning by discovery". This course deals with the study of mechanics, thermodynamics, and wave motion. Prerequisites: PHYS 1402 or consent of instructor. PHYS 5405: Physics by Inquiry II [3‐3] Physics by Inquiry II introduces students to guided inquiry‐based modules that are specifically designed to prepare prospective and practicing teachers (K‐12) to teach science as a process of "learning by discovery". This course deals with the study of electricity, magnetism, and modern physics. Prerequisites: PHYS 5404 or consent of instructor. PHYS 6301: Topics in Physics for Teachers [3‐0] A course that incorporates many different topics in physics. Guest lectures, student participation and basic concept presentation will be utilized to teach each topic. Prerequisite: PHYS 5405 or consent of instructor. PHYS 6302: Environmental Physics for Teachers [3‐0] An enhanced understanding of environmental concepts and principles regarding pollution, air, water and waste management. The course will also address local issues and resources to help teachers provide students with opportunity for real world critical thinking and problem‐solving. The course will include in‐depth industry site visits and guided field trips to environmentally sensitive areas. Both renewable and non‐ renewable energy resources with the concept of energy conservation, waste management and disposal methods will be emphasized. Prerequisite: PHYS 5405 or consent of instructor. PHYS 6303: Quantum Information [3‐0] The Heisenberg uncertainty principles and implications. Observation and measurement. Introduction to quantum mechanics, four quantum numbers and hands‐on experiment will be provided. The Schrodinger Equation and its application to bound and free particles, the hydrogen atom. Prerequisite: PHYS 3402 or PHYS 5405 or consent of instructor. PHYS 6400: Astronomy by Sight [3‐3] Astronomy by Sight is a set of laboratory‐based modules that are specifically designed to prepare prospective and practicing teachers (K‐ 12) to teach science as a process of learning by discovery. The modules are also suitable for liberal arts students and for under‐prepared students who aspire to science‐related careers. Astronomy by Sight emphasizes the process of science rather than the presentation and explanation of facts. This course will deal with the sun, moon and stars, which will help predict and explain daily/monthly changes in the appearance of the sky. It will also deal with the earth, solar system and possibility of extraterrestrial life. Prerequisite: PHYS 5405 or consent of instructor. PHYS 7300: Thesis I [3‐0] Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of thesis advisor. PHYS 7301: Thesis II [3‐0] Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of thesis advisor
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