Mathematics, Secondary Education Certification, BS
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. It also home to the only public elementary lab school in the state. 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.
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What Will I Learn?
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.
Meet Autumn Garibay
“The Math Department has many incredible opportunities, including seminars, on-campus jobs, trips to conferences and clubs. So, get involved! Classes for math majors will be difficult, but the professors are very kind and competent.”What are the requirements for this degree?
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.
What Types of Careers Could I Get With This Degree?
- High school math teacher
- Middle school math teacher
- School administrator
What Kinds of Experiences Could I Have?
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.
As you prepare to become a teacher, you will participate in hands-on learning experiences such as:
- Observation of classes in middle schools and high schools
- Observations of physically challenged and exceptional learners
- Student teaching placements