Message from the Department Head

Welcome to the department of STEM Education at NC State. We are dedicated to preparing outstanding teachers and researchers in all areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. As a land grant institution, the work we do is wholly committed to engaging with and serving communities in North Carolina, the United States, and throughout the world. Graduates of our programs do research and teaching that supports STEM learning that people can use in their lives and communities, as tools to analyze and act in ways that improve society.

Our distinguished faculty are nationally and internationally renowned scholars of STEM education as well as committed educators, passionate about student success. Our teaching is deeply informed by our leading-edge research on STEM teaching and learning to provide outstanding, robust learning opportunities for our students. Our research draws from the knowledge of STEM educators to develop insights that improve and transform STEM teaching and learning. STEM education happens in variety of settings besides schools, including museums, zoos, aquariums, communities and homes. Our students have opportunities to study and teach across these diverse settings, collaborating on research and with industry and community partners. Our department is a vibrant, inclusive, diverse and supportive community where all students are empowered to excel in their desired STEM education career.

STEM fields are oriented toward helping all of us explain our world and to develop solutions to problems that we see in society. Our department is devoted to developing scholars and educators who are dedicated and prepared to strive for STEM teaching and learning that helps all learners, everywhere, understand how STEM can productively function in their lives and be capable of using STEM to promote a just society. When you join our community, you join a dedicated group of people committed to making the world a better place. Welcome to the Wolfpack!

William Sandoval
Department Head for STEM ED