Enrollment is open to applicants who hold any bachelor's degree, regardless of academic major or profession. Students should have reliable internet access and be able to attend in-person experiential learning days at Brookfield Zoo. For more information, visit Miami University's AIP overview page.

AIP Master’s students earn 35 total credit hours: 21 credit hours come from Web+ Courses that combine web-based instruction with experiential learning onsite at Brookfield Zoo plus14 credit hours that come from AIP Core Courses that occur on the web. The experiential learning at Brookfield Zoo takes place during 3 or 4 face-to-face class meeting days per course.

Students must be available for class meeting days that may take place on weekdays or Saturdays during the summer and Saturdays during the fall. All class meeting days are provided well in advance.

Students can enroll in either a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in the biological sciences for formal K-12 teachers or a Master of Arts (M.A.) in biology for all other professionals. The M.A.T. does not confer a teaching license. All courses are delivered online by a Miami University instructor. Two-thirds of AIP courses also include experiential learning on grounds at Brookfield Zoo and in and around the Chicagoland area. Miami University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Students earn 35 credit hours; 7 of those credits may come from an Earth Expeditions global field course. Students also complete a Master’s portfolio in their final course.  The AIP can be completed in as little as 2.5 years or as long as 5 years. The program is designed to be part-time, with working professionals in mind.

The AIP curriculum provides real-world experiences that also advance educational standards. M.A.T. students may choose to develop a portfolio adaptable to National Board Certification. AIP Master’s candidates use inquiry not only as a tool for integrated learning, but as a powerful agent for achievement, public engagement, and ecological stewardship.

Download a copy of the Scope and Sequence to view course offerings in the Advanced Inquiry Program or read more about each course below.

Estimated Costs
The AIP is designed to be as affordable as possible for all participants. To support involvement by a broad range of educators and other professionals nationally, Miami University offers substantially reduced tuition for AIP courses. Please see Miami University’s AIP Costs page for the most up to date information.

Offsetting Costs
Supplemental funds can help reduce some of the financial burden so students focus on their coursework and in achieving their student goals. Applicants to the program should check with their school district or employer to see if professional development and/or tuition reimbursement funds are available to further offset costs. Click the button below for grant and scholarship tips and resources.