Mathematics for Teaching
Bachelor of Science
Become the math teacher your future students need.
There’s a difference between learning a subject and learning to teach it. You’ll want to do both to be the kind of teacher that inspires their students to love math.
This is the right major for you if you aim to teach mathematics at the middle or high school level. Not only will you build your own math expertise, but you’ll learn how to share it with others.
Become a middle school or high school math teacher
The mathematics for teaching degree is a specialized major for those interested in teaching in secondary schools (grades 6-12). It includes all the elements of the traditional bachelor’s in mathematics but also prepares you for a future career as an educator.
Advance your mathematical knowledge
The core requirements for this major are the same as the traditional bachelor’s degree in mathematics. You’ll build a foundation in mathematical theory and explore its branches from geometry to calculus. You’ll also solve complex problems by creating simulations and models. Additionally, you’ll study related fields like computer programming and physics.
Prepare for teaching
As you build your math expertise, you will also encounter invaluable opportunities to get a “first look” at your future teaching career and prepare for your credential program. Here’s how:
- Teaching field experience through a paid internship. At our campus Math Center, you’ll build confidence in your teaching while helping fellow students master mathematical concepts and problem-solving.
- Coursework in supporting fields of study. Today’s teachers are called to educate diverse students and show that they understand the real-world context of their subject. To prepare you for this dynamic environment, you’ll take an additional upper-division course in education. You’ll also be able to satisfy your general education requirements, called IDEAS, from various fields that complement your teacher training, such as psychology and sociology.
- Building a subject-matter portfolio to synthesize and summarize your experiences as an undergraduate student. It’ll include work samples from your classes, a reflection on your tutoring experience, and writings on topics related to math and education. Before graduation, you’ll present your portfolio to faculty and give them a teaching demo, which will be great preparation for your credential program.
Earning your credential
By majoring in mathematics for teaching, you’ll be well-prepared for the credential program of your choice.
With this degree, you’ll also meet the requirements to enter a credential program in California after graduation. You can generally earn your teaching credential within one year. Cal Lutheran’s credential program also includes the option to earn your master’s degree with three additional courses.
Scholarship opportunity for future teachers
This major integrates well with the TEAMS (Teacher Experiences Advancing Mathematics and the Sciences) Program. TEAMS is a selective opportunity for those interested in teaching secondary-level math or science. It provides an undergraduate scholarship for your senior year and a stipend for your credential program. All mathematics for teaching students should apply early in their junior year at Cal Lutheran.
Programs
Offered as a major (BS).
Recommended Minors
Want to add even more value to your degree? Consider one of these minors to gain a unique combination of skills and perspectives.
A Bachelor of Science (BS) in mathematics for teaching is the start of your training to become a mathematics teacher in public schools at the secondary level. Your next step will be a teaching credential program, and this specialized major will stand out on your graduate school application.
When applying for your first teaching position, your major will also signal to hiring managers that you’re committed to the field. It will also give you a head start on work experience in the classroom.
Without a teaching credential, career options include teaching in private schools and working as a tutor or instructor in other spaces. But when you earn your BS in mathematics for teaching, you’re a mathematician first. Your expertise can also be applied to a wide range of private and public-sector careers.
Career paths:
- Middle-school math teacher
- High school math teacher
- Math instructor
- Data analyst
- Statistician
of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months
Growing up, I watched my siblings struggle with math, whereas for me it came easy, and I saw the struggle in many of my friends as soon as I got to high school. It pushed me to use my strengths to help others succeed. Math has a bad reputation, and I wanted to be part of helping people understand that they are born with the ability to do math.
I had to create a portfolio throughout the program that highlighted my work and defended my work to my professors at the end. It made me feel accomplished and like I chose the right path for my future.
Shannon Pearce-Harris '22
Liberal Studies in Education, Mathematics Major
High School Mathematics Teacher, Los Angeles Unified School District
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