Science and Mathematics Education

About the Program

The Graduate Group in Science and Mathematics Education (known informally as SESAME) offers an interdisciplinary graduate program leading to a doctoral degree in science, mathematics, technology, and engineering education. The program is designed to give graduates advanced expertise in a STEM discipline as well as in educational theory and research methodologies.

This Graduate Group was established so individuals with training or experience in a mathematical, scientific, or technical discipline can pursue advanced studies focused on educational issues in these disciplines. SESAME produces scholars who can communicate effectively with scientists, mathematicians, and engineers as well as with educational researchers and practitioners. SESAME students are expected to attain a level of expertise equivalent to that of a Master's student in their chosen discipline.

Thesis work typically consists of basic research on learning or cognition in a STEM field or the development of improved pedagogical approaches based on relevant models and research. Upon satisfactory completion of their studies and thesis work, students will obtain the degree of Ph.D. in Science and Mathematics Education.

SESAME also offers a Learning Sciences Certificate in Instructional Design, Learning Technologies, and Education Research.

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Admissions

Admission to the University

Applying for Graduate Admission

Thank you for considering UC Berkeley for graduate study! UC Berkeley offers more than 120 graduate programs representing the breadth and depth of interdisciplinary scholarship. The Graduate Division hosts a complete list of graduate academic programs, departments, degrees offered, and application deadlines can be found on the Graduate Division website.

Prospective students must submit an online application to be considered for admission, in addition to any supplemental materials specific to the program for which they are applying. The online application and steps to take to apply can be found on the Graduate Division website.

Admission Requirements

The minimum graduate admission requirements are:

1. A bachelor’s degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution;

2. A satisfactory scholastic average, usually a minimum grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 (B) on a 4.0 scale; and

3. Enough undergraduate training to do graduate work in your chosen field.

For a list of requirements to complete your graduate application, please see the Graduate Division’s Admissions Requirements page. It is also important to check with the program or department of interest, as they may have additional requirements specific to their program of study and degree. Department contact information can be found here.

Where to apply?

Visit the Berkeley Graduate Division application page.

Admission to the Program

Requirements

1. A bachelor’s degree or its recognized equivalent from an accredited institution;
2. Superior scholastic record, normally well above a 3.0 GPA;
3. Indication of appropriate research goals, described in the statement of purpose; and
4. For international applicants whose academic work has been in a language other than English, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

Selection Criteria

SESAME accepts three to six Ph.D. students each year from more than 50 applications. Applicants are judged on a number of factors; good scores and a high GPA are necessary but not sufficient. Particularly valued are potential as a researcher and educator, a strong background in a STEM discipline, and an agenda that fits well with the work of specific faculty in this small, interdisciplinary program. Applicants should clearly indicate in their statement of purpose which faculty member(s) they are interested in doing research with and why.

Experience teaching, developing instructional materials, or doing educational or psychological research in these areas will also be favorably considered.  Knowledge of psychology, cognitive science, education, or statistics is helpful but not required. See SESAME Admissions for more information. SESAME accepts applications for only the Fall semester.

Statement of Purpose and Personal History

The statement of purpose and personal history are two separate essays.

The statement of purpose should succinctly explain your reasons for applying to SESAME, briefly review our relevant academic preparation and work experience, and describe your future academic or professional goals once the degree is acquired. The focus should be on your preparation, experience, and aims rather than a discussion of the trends or importance of education in general. The most successful statements are one to two pages in length and focus on the strengths and experiences of the applicant, providing the reviewers with evidence and justification for admitting those applicants who are qualified and well-suited for SESAME.

The personal history should include any relevant information not already included in the statement of purpose. Additional suggestions may be found in the Graduate Division’s Personal Statement Guide. There is no minimum length for the personal history.

These two essays are used in part to evaluate the candidate’s writing skills. Pursuant to UC Berkeley Policy, the two statements must be written by the candidate.

Three Letters of Recommendation

Ph.D. applicants should provide at least three and no more than five letters that speak directly to their ability and potential to perform academic work at the doctoral level.

Doctoral Degree Requirements

SESAME is programmatically separate from the GSE so GSE-wide course requirements do not apply. Note, however, that the Graduate Division’s requirement of EDUC 375 still applies.

A. Two SESAME Core Courses Taken in Year 1

B. Two Foundations Courses Beginning in Year 1

C. Three Methodology Courses (1 Quant, 1 Qual + 1 More) Taken at Any Time

D. One Learning in the Discipline Course Taken at Any Time

Below are examples of courses that represent this area but this list is not exhaustive. Students are encouraged to look at courses offered each term, to consult with their advisor, and to explore graduate coursework on campus more broadly.

E. Required: One Curriculum and Technology Design Course Taken at Any Time

Below are examples of courses that represent this area but this list is not exhaustive. You are encouraged to look at courses offered each term, to consult with your advisor, and to explore graduate coursework on campus more broadly - e.g., the School of Information.

F. Two STEM Disciplinary Courses in the Student’s Field of Emphasis

Reflecting the range of STEM disciplinary fields and your interests, these two courses should be selected in consultation with your faculty advisor and with an eye toward your professional development.

G. Participation in a Research Group (At Least Four Semesters)

Many faculty in the GSE have one or multiple research groups that run yearlong. SESAME students typically enroll in a research group led by their advisor. However, you are encouraged to participate in multiple research groups if it will further enhance your growth. Below is a list of Learning Sciences and Human Development research groups to consider.

Learning Sciences Certificate

Courses

Science and Mathematics Education