Mathematics Education
Description
Math teachers teach our doctors, engineers, scientists and businessmen the basic skills required to do their jobs every day. Teachers play a significant role in training future leaders and ensuring that many of the most important professions in this country are done correctly. The nationally recognized Mathematics Education program at OU offers its students a good balance between in-class education and hands-on opportunities. Undergraduate students spend more than 120 hours observing and tutoring in the classroom.
The curriculum for a Bachelor of Science degree is designed for four years. If students then wish to be certified to teach, they can choose to pursue a Master of Education degree or they can complete a certification-only program. The certification-only option requires one semester while the master's option can be completed in up to five years. Students would receive their certification in Mathematics Education to teach in middle/junior high schools and high schools.
Field experiences prepare students for student-teaching internships during either the certification or graduate portion of their education. Internships typically last 16 weeks. Students work in the classroom observing, creating lesson plans and teaching. Students are allowed to request a school and even a specific teacher.
Degree Options
A Mathematics Education student graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. A student could also pursue a Master of Education, a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Education degree. Students who obtain a master's degree may be certified as reading specialists.
Accreditation
The Mathematics Education program is accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, a specialty organization.
In 2007, U.S. News and World Report ranked the College of Education 40th among the best graduate programs in the nation.
Notable Achievements
Mathematics Education faculty members serve in numerous Mathematics and Mathematics Education professional organizations. In addition several Education faculty members serve on editorial boards for prestigious academic publications.
Education students can participate in such organizations as Kappa Delta Pi, an honor society that recognizes outstanding contributions to education, and the Student Council for Exceptional Children, which provides professional growth opportunities through field experiences.
Interests and Skills
Mathematics Education students typically have interests in mathematics, science and computers. Education students also enjoy working with middle- and high school-aged students. High school preparation should include tutoring or working with middle and high school students.
This page last updated: Oct 27, 2009