Welcome to the Advanced Inquiry Program

Program Description

The Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) offers a ground-breaking graduate degree focused on inquiry-driven learning and social change. Some of the nation's premier community and learning institutions have joined together to co-deliver the AIP, bringing exceptional local connections and resources to an unprecedented national partnership united through joint coursework and a common mission. AIP students take courses at a local AIP Master Institution while sharing ideas with peers and instructors nationwide via web-based learning communities. The AIP builds on the participatory education models of Project Dragonfly, which reaches millions of people each year through inquiry-driven programs, public exhibits, and graduate courses worldwide. AIP Master’s candidates use inquiry not only as a tool for integrated learning, but as a powerful agent for student achievement, public engagement in science, and ecological stewardship.

The AIP curriculum provides real-world experiences that also advance district, state, and national educational standards through research-based practices for student achievement in core content areas. AIP Master's candidates may also choose to integrate professional development experiences abroad by choosing from Earth Expeditions field courses in Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas (7 credits from Earth Expeditions courses can count toward the AIP Master's degree).

The AIP is based on the principle that education should extend beyond the classroom, and that students should make a difference--not just after graduation, but now, as a basic function of education itself. AIP Master's students practice the skills of investigation, critical reflection, leadership, and collaboration required to effectively address the vital issues of our time.

AIP Master’s Institutions

Eligibility

Enrollment is open to applicants who hold a Bachelor’s degree--regardless of academic major or profession--and who are able to travel to an AIP Master Institution, currently located in Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Denver, Phoenix, San Diego and Seattle. Coursework occurs at Master Institutions and on the web.

The AIP Master’s can be completed part-time while working. It’s designed for educators and a broad range of professionals from non-profit, business, and government settings.

Degree Options

Applicants elect to enroll in either a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree in the Biological Sciences or a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Zoology (see program details). MA and MAT candidates go through the Advanced Inquiry Program together.

Note: Some courses, for example the Earth Expeditions courses, can be taken outside the degree program.

Applications

Accepted until February 28, 2013, for enrollment in summer 2013.

More Information

Contact: aip_masters@muohio.edu