MST/MAT in Mathematics

The Masters of Science/Arts1 in Teaching of Mathematics is designed for those interested in strengthening their understanding of mathematics to enrich the teaching of mathematics at the high school or community college level.  The program prepares teachers in subjects such as geometry, algebra, analysis/calculus, probability, statistics, discrete mathematics, and the use of calculators and computers in the classroom.  The program is intended for individuals with a mathematics degree or a strong background in mathematics.  An MST/MAT candidate must complete an approved program of 45 graduate credits which includes a mathematics curriculum project. A typical program would include 30 hours in Mathematics, 9 hours in Education, and 6 hours in Mathematics, Education, or other areas.  In order to be admitted to the MST/MAT program, the applicant's transcript must show successful completion of undergraduate courses in at least the following:  abstract algebra, advanced calculus, linear algebra and college geometry.

The program may also lead to the Standard Teaching Certificate with the Standard Advanced Mathematics Endorsement for those currently holding a valid Basic Advanced Mathematics Endorsement, or to the Continuing License for those holding an Initial License.

Check our website at www.mth.pdx.edu for advising, class schedule, and additional information about other degree and certificate programs. The website also has a link (under “Advising”) to the PSU Bulletin, which offers course descriptions as well as general information on PSU Graduate Program requirements.

Contact:  Dr. Sean Larsen, MST/MAT Coordinator and Adviser, (503) 725-3633;  e-mail: slarsen@pdx.edu.

1 MAT requires a foreign language examination.

ADMISSION:

Applicants must follow the university admissions instructions for graduate applicants (http://www.gsr.pdx.edu/forms/gradapp.pdf).

General Admission Information

The following materials must be submitted to the Department of Mathematics and Statistics:
  • Departmental Application portion of the PSU Application for Graduate Admission.
  • One transcript from each post-secondary institution attended.
  • Two letters of recommendation, one concentrating on applicant's ability to do graduate work, the other concentrating on teaching potential (these letters may be included in sealed envelopes with the materials to our Department).
  • A short statement about the applicant's reason for pursuing an MST/MAT degree, including his/her professional goals.

Send these materials to:
Eileen Mitchell, PSU Dept. of Mathematics & Statistics, P.O. Box 751, Portland, OR 97207-0751

APPLICATION DEADLINES:2

Application deadlines correspond to the general University deadlines (see current PSU Bulletin):

Fall Term Winter Term Spring Term Summer Session
April 1 September 1 November 1 February 1

 

2 Note that it is possible to take some courses toward the MST/MAT prior to formal admission to the program. If you have missed the Application Deadline for the term you wish to start taking classes, please contact the MST Coordinator

REQUIRED COURSE WORK FOR MST/MAT:

(Alternative math courses may be substituted with Adviser approval. Note also that many of these courses are “Topics” courses, and with MST Coordinator approval may be repeated for credit.)

Probability/Statistics (3 cr)
Mth 581  Probability for Math Teachers
or    Mth 582  Statistics for Math Teachers

Geometry(3 cr)
  Mth 583  Topics in Geometry for Math Teachers

Algebra (3 cr)
Mth 584  Topics in Algebra for Math Teachers

Analysis(3 cr)
Mth 585  Topics in Analysis for Math Teachers

History/Foundations of Math (3 cr)
Mth 586  Topics in the History of Mathematics

Discrete Math (3 cr)
Mth 587  Introduction to Combinatorial Analysis

Technology (3 cr)
Mth 588  Computing Technology for   Math Teachers

Curriculum Project (3 cr)
Math 501  Curriculum Research, Mathematics

Mathematics Electives (6 cr)
Approved graduate-level mathematics courses

Education Courses (9 cr)2
Approved graduate education courses, including a course on mathematics teaching strategies

University Electives (6 cr)
Graduate level courses (Mathematics, Education, or other) approved by Adviser

2 The MST program requires 9 credits in education, which includes courses with prefixes ED, CI, EPFA, COUN, and IST. Teachers who obtained a “Basic Certificate” prior to 1999 and are seeking a “Standard Certificate,” or who had an “Initial License” and are seeking a “Continuing License,” should consult with the MST coordinator regarding specific required education courses. Others in the program should consult with the MST coordinator to select education courses that fit their particular goals and interests.

A maximum of 15 hours in education are allowed for the MST/MAT degree.

Tentative Schedule of Course Offerings

   2005-06
 (2008-09)
 
 
 2006
 (2009)
 
 
 2006-07
 (2009-10)
 
 
 2007
 (2010)
 
 
 2007-08
 (2010-11)
 
 
 2008
 (2011)
 
 

Fall

Mth 584   Mth 585   Mth 582  

Winter

Mth 586   Mth 586   Mth 583  

Spring

Mth 581
Mth 588
  Mth 587   Mth 588
Mth 586
 

Summer 

   Mth 582 
Mth 583
Mth 588

 
   Mth 581 
Mth 584
Mth 586
   Mth 585 
Mth 587
Mth 510

 

MST-MAT Handout 04/05 (Revised 11/08/06 )

 


Last Modified January 25, 2008