Portland-State-University 2016-2017 Bulletin

Mathematics for Teachers M.S.

Candidates must complete an approved program of 45 graduate credits and complete an approved mathematics curriculum project.

The M.S. in Mathematics for Teachers is designed for individuals interested in strengthening their understanding of mathematics to enrich the teaching of mathematics. The program prepares teachers in subjects such as geometry, algebra, analysis/calculus, history of mathematics, probability, statistics, discrete mathematics, and use of technology in the classroom. The program is intended for individuals with a mathematics degree or a strong background in mathematics.

The M.S. in Mathematics for Teachers program offers advanced training and specialized courses for secondary school teachers of mathematics.


Admission

The Masters of Science in Mathematics for Teachers is designed for people interested in strengthening their understanding of mathematics to enrich the teaching of mathematics. The program prepares teachers in subjects such as geometry, algebra, analysis/calculus, probability, statistics, discrete mathematics, and the use of calculators and computers in the classroom.

The MS-MTCH in Mathematics does not lead to a teaching license.  If you are interested in teaching secondary mathematics, please contact the School of Education, GTEP program.

Program prerequisites:

The program is intended for individuals with a mathematics degree or a strong background in mathematics. In order to be admitted to the MS-MTCH program, the applicant's transcript must show successful completion of undergraduate courses in at least the following: abstract algebra, advanced calculus, linear algebra and college geometry.
Instructions on how to apply: http://www.pdx.edu/math/graduate-admissions

Degree Requirements:

An MS-MTCH candidate must complete an approved program of 45 graduate credits which includes a mathematics curriculum project. A typical program would include 30 hours in Mathematics, 9 hours in Education, and 6 hours in Mathematics, Education, or other areas.

Required coursework

Probability/Statistics (3 credits)

Mth 581Topics in Probability for Mathematics Teachers

2-3

or

Mth 582Topics in Statistics for Mathematics Teachers

2-3

University Electives (6 credits)

Graduate-level courses (Mathematics, Education, or other) approved by adviser.

Geometry (3 credits)

Mth 583Topics in Geometry for Mathematics Teachers

2-3

Algebra (3 credits)

Mth 584Topics in Algebra for Mathematics Teachers

2-3

Analysis (3 credits)

Mth 585Topics in Analysis for Mathematics Teachers

2-3

History/Foundations of Math (3 credits)

Mth 585Topics in Analysis for Mathematics Teachers

2-3

Discrete Math (3 credits)

Mth 587Topics in Discrete Mathematics for Mathematics Teachers

2-3

Technology (3 credits)

Mth 588Topics in Computing for Mathematics Teachers

1-3

Curriculum Project (3 credits)

Mth 501Curriculum Research, Mathematics

3

Mathematics Electives (6 credits)

Approved graduate-level mathematics courses.

Education Courses (9 credits)*

Approved graduate education courses, including a course on mathematics teaching strategies.

*The MS MTCH program requires 9 credits in education, which includes courses with prefixes ED, CI, EPFA, COUN, and IST. Consult with the MS-MTCH coordinator to select education courses that fit their particular goals and interests.

A maximum of 15 credit hours in education are allowed for the MS-MTCH degree.

For those in MEd/GTEP program, consult with the MS-MTCH Coordinator for Dual-Degree option.

MTH 501 Mathematics Curriculum Project

As part of the degree requirements, the student will complete a mathematics curriculum project. In this independent research project, the student will explore a mathematical topic and will develop and classroom-test curriculum materials related to that topic. Under the guidance of a faculty member, the student will prepare a research paper and present this research in a colloquium. Requirements for the course are listed separately in the handout: M.S. in Mathematics for Teachers’ Curriculum Projects.