Mathematics, Secondary Education with Initial Licensure (8-12), B.S.

Mathematics

Objectives for the Program in Mathematics

The Department of Mathematics serves all students at the university. Mathematics majors receive a comprehensive foundation in abstract and applied mathematics as preparation for graduate school or a professional career. Minors in Mathematics receive the mathematical foundation needed for advanced work in their major field.

The department also provides non-majors with courses for their major or with courses for their General Education program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Develop effective thinking and communication skills

• Present information in a clear, precise and organized manner both verbally and in writing.
• Use and compare analytical, visual, and numerical perspectives in exploring mathematics.
• Recognize and make mathematically rigorous arguments.
• Approach mathematical problems with curiosity and creativity and persist in the face of difficulties.
• Work creatively and self-sufficiently with mathematics.

Learn to link applications and theory

• Understand and apply motivating examples that illustrate the ideas they are studying.
• Apply mathematical ideas to problems in those areas of study.
• See mathematical theory as useful and enlightening in both pure and applied contexts.
• Recognize and integrate connections between mathematical courses and theory.

Learn to use technological tools

• Use technology effectively, both as a tool for solving problems and exploring mathematical ideas.
• Use technology with increasing sophistication throughout a major curriculum.

Develop mathematical independence and experience open-ended inquiry

• Be able to explore mathematical ideas and problems beyond the classroom.
• Explore increasingly more difficult and open-ended questions.
• Speak and write about mathematics with increasing depth and sophistication.

Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics with Initial Licensure

Students within our Mathematics major can pursue initial licensure as high school Mathematics teachers. This program provides students with both a broad introduction to high school teaching and specific instruction in the theory, research and practice of secondary Mathematics teaching. Students engage in field-based experiences in the school setting supervised by our faculty through on-site pre-practicum experiences coupled with each teaching course and a formal teaching practicum as the capstone experience. Students pursuing this option will have to fulfill the degree requirements for the mathematics major with some restricted electives, a minor in Middle and Secondary Education (5-12), as well as the requirements for initial teacher licensure in Secondary Education.The requirements are described below: