Mathematics Education, M.S.

Program Director: Christy Graybeal Ph.D.; graybeal@hood.edu; 301-696-3838

The Master of Science in Mathematics Education is a 30-credit degree program consisting of 10 required and elective courses in mathematics, computer science and education. It is designed for current mathematics teachers seeking to enhance their professional qualifications through graduate study, although other qualified students are welcome to enroll. Students in this program will acquire knowledge and skill in both mathematics and its teaching. Courses are offered in the late afternoon and evening, and in the summer, to accommodate working teachers.  This program does not lead to initial teacher certification.

Each student in the program must create and submit an electronic exit portfolio of artifacts— work completed in designated courses in the program. Students are responsible for collecting, refining, and saving artifacts as they proceed through the program using the Chalk and Wire electronic portfolio software. The portfolio will be evaluated by a committee including the program director and other program faculty. Students must earn an average score of at least 3.0 (out of 4.0) on the portfolio. Successful completion of the portfolio is a requirement for completion of the degree.

The portfolio must be submitted by October 1 for January graduates, February 1 for May graduates, and June 1 for September graduates. Students may submit the portfolio at any time after completing 21 credits in the program including a minimum of 9 credits of Education courses from among EDUC 551, EDUC 552, EDUC 595, and EDUC 596.

Application Requirements

Students applying to the Mathematics Education program must submit all official transcripts and complete a one-page statement describing how the M.S. in Mathematics Education relates to their previous academic and professional experience and to their occupational or personal goals.

For additional admission information, see Graduate Admission.

There are two tracks in the program:

• A track for teachers of middle school mathematics, especially those who may not hold an undergraduate degree in mathematics;
• A track for teachers of high school mathematics, or those who have completed an undergraduate major in mathematics.