Education: Specialization in Mathematics (MA)

The Masters of Arts in Mathematics Education bridges the gap between Mathematics and Mathematics Education Theory and Practice and prepares teachers for instructional leadership as master teachers of mathematics.

The program extends the professional competence of mathematics teachers through an in-depth study of mathematics and mathematics teaching and learning. The courses feature content based on the Common Core Standards and are designed to provide information that is compatible with those requirements.

Program participants will demonstrate their knowledge through individual and collaborative projects and presentations, field-based curriculum implementation and evaluation, and reflective classroom inquiry.

The degree, which is a collaborative effort of the Department of Education and the Department of Mathematics, provides opportunities for mathematics teachers to deepen their understanding of mathematics by learning advanced mathematical topics in relation to the mathematics that they actually teach. In addition, the program develops teachers' understanding of-and ability to apply-education research into their own practice. The courses allow teachers to learn math-specific technologies for implementing appropriate mathematics curriculum and to continue to develop as a professional educators.

As a culminating project, teachers will conduct research in their own classrooms, where they will analyze how aspects of their own practice will have an impact on their own as well as their students' learning.

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

1. Analyze and solve real-world problems using a variety of mathematical techniques,
2. Apply Mathematics Education Theory to practice in the field,
3. Apply Mathematics to related disciplines,
4. Communicate effectively via multiple avenues,
5. Utilize and choose technology appropriate to a given situation,
6. Appreciate the need and desire to be lifelong learners.