Mathematics, Secondary Education Certification, BS
Observation of classes in middle and high school
The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with secondary certification provides excellent preparation for teaching math in grades 7-12 in Pennsylvania and more than 40 other states with reciprocal agreements. Shippensburg University is a great place to study to become a teacher because its secondary education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Completing this concentration at Ship results in a B.S. in Mathematics rather than the B.S.Ed. degree offered by other programs. Students have found this feature useful in pivoting toward graduate school or other mathematical interests after graduation.
You will complete the requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics while taking education courses and completing field experiences required for certification. The core of the program comprises the three-semester calculus sequence, discrete mathematics, statistics, linear algebra, abstract algebra and analysis. All mathematics students also complete at least one course in computer programming. The core of education coursework includes field experiences that culminate in a semester of student teaching, usually including both high school and middle school placements.
Many mathematics courses are taught in a computer classroom to provide hands-on experience with software such as Microsoft Excel, Mathematica, and various classroom-specific technology tools. Many mathematics students are employed by the university to tutor students in lower division mathematics courses.
4+1 Program Available
With careful planning, you may be able to complete a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with Secondary Certification and a Master of Science in Organizational Development and Leadership with only one additional year of study through a 4+1 program. For more information, contact the Political and Social Inquiry Department.
Course Work for Mathematics, Secondary Education Certification, BS
All concentrations within the mathematics program require the same core courses in calculus, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, abstract algebra and analysis. Students concentrating in Secondary Teaching Certification complete specialized mathematics coursework in Geometry, Mathematical Modeling, and the History of Mathematics, as well as education coursework required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
All undergraduate degree programs require a minimum of 120 credits. Some courses meet multiple requirements, but are only counted once toward the 120 credit total required to graduate. For full course descriptions, visit the undergraduate catalog.