Computer Science Education, MS

Vision Statement

This degree program is intended for those with a passion for the teaching and learning of computational thinking, computer science, and information technology skills. By developing both content knowledge and pedagogical skills related to the computing disciplines, this program is ideal for educators looking to empower young people to become the creators of next generation technologies. 

In completing program coursework, certified Nebraska teachers will also meet requirements for the IT supplemental endorsement. Teachers from other states should consult with with their corresponding state officials to consider local credentialing applicability.

Program Contact Information

Harvey Siy, PhD, Graduate Program Chair
402.554.2834
hsiy@unomaha.edu

Emily Wiemers, Graduate Advisor
402.554.3819
ewiemers@unomaha.edu

Program Website

Other Program Related Information

Students who hold current Nebraska teaching certification are eligible for the IT Supplemental Endorsement upon successfully completing the 15 hour core courses. 

Grades of 'C' or lower cannot be used when applying for the State of Nebraska IT Supplemental Endorsement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the MS in computer science education, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate CS knowledge and skills by creating computational artifacts.
• Articulate a vision of equitable and inclusive CS teaching practices.
• Responsively implement evidence-based pedagogy to facilitate meaningful learning experiences.
• Design learning experiences that implement evidence-based pedagogy.

Admissions

General Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

Program-Specific Requirements

Application Deadlines (Spring 2025, Summer 2025, and Fall 2025)

• Fall: July 1
• Spring: December 1
• Summer: April 1

Other Requirements

• English Language Proficiency: Applicants are required to have a command of oral and written English. Those who do not hold a baccalaureate or other advanced degree from the United States, OR a baccalaureate or other advanced degree from a predetermined country on the waiver list, must meet minimum language proficiency score requirement in order to be considered for graduate admission.
  • Internet-based TOEFL: 80, IELTS: 6.5, PTE: 53, Duolingo: 110
• Statement of Purpose addressing the following:
  • Describe your academic and professional journey. Discuss your background personal and professional experiences, and your current educational context.  Be sure to explain your motivation for pursuing this program at this point in your career.
  • In order to advise you on initial coursework, please describe any prior formal or informal training you have completed in computing, computer science, and information technology. This includes, but is not limited to programming/coding, web design, systems administration, computing networking, databases, and computer applications. 
  • Discuss your post-master's degree plans. How will the MS in computer science education contribute to your future endeavors related to P-12 students, educators, administrators or other community stakeholders. 
• Resume: Professional resume or curriculum vitae
• Copy of your current teacher certification (if applicable)
• International students who do not intend to teach in the United States may be eligible for admission.  

Degree Requirements

¹

 Thesis credits must be completed over two or more academic terms. 

²

Project credits must be completed over two or more academic terms. 

³

 The Capstone course may only be taken upon completion of at least 21 credit hours in the program.