Other Programs in the College of Natural and Health Sciences

Graduate Interdisciplinary Degree Program M.A.

Middle Level Mathematics Teaching Emphasis

This program is designed to prepare professional teachers currently working in K-8 education with mathematical content and pedagogical expertise to teach mathematics at the middle level (Grades 6-8). Upon finishing this program they should be able to teach the mathematical content at this level, assume leadership roles at their sites, perform action research in their own classrooms and read and understand the relevant professional literature. The program focuses on mathematics content, and the mathematics courses are taught in a manner consistent with the process standards of the NCTM. This program emphasizes the mathematical and professional preparation to meet national standards and the need for excellent mathematics education in the 21st century.

The program combines professionalized mathematics courses appropriate for middle school teachers (Mathematics for Teaching (MFT)) with courses in mathematics education, pedagogy and practice (Mathematics Education (MED)). Students may include some appropriate electives in other areas of education.

Admission Generally, a B.A. or B.S. in any area with (at least one year of) teaching experience in K-8 education is required; a current professional teaching position is preferred. Students must submit an essay of approximately 500 words addressing their interest in the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with Emphasis in Middle Level Mathematics Teaching and their educational goals.

For degree and program requirements, see:

Graduate Interdisciplinary Degree Program M.A. — Middle Level Mathematics Teaching Emphasis  

Science Education Emphasis

The program is coordinated by the Mathematics and Science Teaching (MAST) Institute. The program provides practicing K-12 teachers with advanced study focusing on the following themes: increased science content knowledge; increased pedagogical content knowledge for the science teaching setting; competency in the sciences; diversity and equity teaching practices; and the teacher as a researcher. Thesis and non-thesis options are available for this degree. Research experiences are molded around the teacher's interests. The majority of the courses are offered on line. The program combines science courses directed towards topics applicable to K-12 science teaching with courses in science education, pedagogy, and reflective practice.

Admission: Students will be admitted to the program on the basis of:

1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university,
2. One year of teaching experience in K-12 educational setting,
3. Transcripts,
4. Graduate Record Examination scores,
5. At least two letters of recommendation from persons familiar with their academic and teaching performance,
6. Resume,
7. A 500 word letter of intent addressing interest in the program, their educational goals, areas of study, and topics of potential research interest.

All admission criteria as listed above are taken into consideration for acceptance into the Science Education Emphasis program. Admission to the Graduate School does not guarantee admission to the Science Education Emphasis graduate program.

For degree and program requirements, see:

Graduate Interdisciplinary Degree Program M.A. — Science Education Emphasis