While students in the EEMS concentration primarily focus on one discipline (mathematics or science) throughout their doctoral studies, coursework and other opportunities are structured such that students explore and analyze the cross-disciplinary connections among all the core content areas.  By nature, elementary schools are interdisciplinary, and teachers typically are responsible for teaching all subjects.  The cross-disciplinary nature of the EEMS concentration allows faculty and students to leverage the natural setting of elementary schools.  Additionally, research and experiences in the EEMS concentration are not limited to formal “brick-and-mortar” learning environments but also include informal learning environments (e.g., home, museums, outdoor education).     

The concentration in EEMS builds on the successful work of NC State’s undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program and the elementary education master’s program. Together, the programs form a cohesive line of research, development, and instruction across all university-level degrees. The concentration in EEMS provides opportunities for highly qualified individuals interested in researching, designing, and improving elementary-level learning environments. Simultaneously, the Elementary Education in Mathematics and Science concentration strengthens faculty research in elementary mathematics education and elementary science education, feeding directly into the quality of the undergraduate and MEd programs.

• Completed application to the NC State Graduate School
• Unofficial transcripts from undergraduate and any graduate programs
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Personal statement
  • Your interest in obtaining a Ph.D. at NC State
  • How you plan to leverage your prior experiences to inform your research/educational interests.
  • Particular faculty in the EEMS concentration with whom you want to work and why.
  • How this degree will help you pursue your career goals now and in the future.
  • The unique contributions or special interests you bring that will enhance your doctoral studies.
• GRE scores
• Letters of recommendation (3)
  • At least one should be from a professor or someone who can comment on research experience/preparation for a PhD
• An academic writing sample (e.g., master’s thesis, paper from previous coursework, manuscript, research report, or white paper)

Concentration Handbook

TELS core (6 hours)

• ECI 735 Seminar on Teaching and Teaching Education 
• ECI 736 Learning Sciences 

Core Courses (12 hours)

• ECI 723 Elementary STEM Learning in Informal Settings  
• ECI 724 Professional Learning in Elementary STEM Education  
• ECI 725 Examining Researchers and Teacher Educators as Learners  
• ECI 726 Action and Cognition in Elementary STEM Teaching & Learning

Electives (12 hours)

• Chosen in consultation with advisor 

EEMS Graduate Student and Faculty Handbook

TELS core (6 hours)

• ECI 735 Seminar on Teaching and Teaching Education 
• ECI 736 Learning Sciences 

Core Courses (12 hours)

• ECI 723 Elementary STEM Learning in Informal Settings  
• ECI 724 Professional Learning in Elementary STEM Education  
• ECI 725 Examining Researchers and Teacher Educators as Learners  
• ECI 726 Action and Cognition in Elementary STEM Teaching & Learning

Electives (12 hours)

• Chosen in consultation with an advisor 

Review the Estimated Cost of Attendance for information on tuition and fees set by the university. Students are funded through a variety of opportunities, some of which cover tuition and fees. Stipend and length of appointment varies based on funding source. 

• Graduate Research Assistantships: Research assistantships are awarded to students working with a faculty member on an externally-funded research grant. Individual faculty select students for these awards.
• Teaching Assistantships: Teaching assistantships are rewarded to students with applicable experience to teach undergraduate courses or supervise teacher interns. Students are selected based on department needs.
• College Fellowships: Offices in the College of Education regularly offer assistantships for research and teaching positions. These are announced each spring.
• University Fellowships: The Graduate School offers several fellowships for new students, including the University Graduate Fellowship and the Provost’s Fellowship. The Director of Graduate Programs nominates applicants for these awards.
• External Fellowships: Applicants are encouraged to apply for fellowships from the National Science Foundation and other national programs.

Eligible students may receive coverage of their tuition and health insurance through the Graduate Student Support Plan (GSSP). Opportunities are available on a limited basis, and vary in: stipend amount; length of appointment; research/teaching area that is your focus; technical, research and teaching skill required; and where you are in your program timeline to completion. Therefore, funding is not guaranteed.

All applicants are automatically considered for funding opportunities that require department nomination. To express interest in being considered for other departmental funding, please complete the TELS Funding Interest Form.

Sarah J. Carrier
Jessica Hunt
James Minogue
Temple Walkowiak