Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics for Secondary Education

A bachelor’s degree in mathematics for secondary education may be worth it if your goal is to teach mathematics in middle or high school and pursue a licensure-focused educator preparation program. The degree combines mathematics coursework with teacher training, helping prepare students for initial teacher licensure and classroom instruction. However, if your primary goal is to pursue a mathematics career outside of education, such as in data analytics or actuarial science, a traditional mathematics degree or other math-focused programs, such as finance, accounting or statistics may be a better fit.

Students in this program typically gain hands-on experience through fieldwork and student-teaching opportunities while developing skills in instructional methods, assessment and classroom management. The degree may also provide a foundation for graduate study in education or related fields. Graduates may pursue teaching roles in public, private or charter secondary schools, subject to state licensure requirements.^{(See disclaimer 4, 5)}

Relevant skills you can develop in this program include:

• Math competencies, including calculus, geometry, probability, statistics and algebra
• Differentiated instruction
• Classroom engagement
• Application of teaching methodologies and instructional technology
• Lesson planning and assessment design
• Data interpretation
• Mathematical communication

You’ll practice applying these skills during your student teaching experience, during which you’ll work directly with adolescent math students.

A bachelor’s degree in mathematics for secondary education is designed to prepare graduates to pursue initial teacher licensure, but the degree does not automatically grant a teaching license. Licensure requirements vary by state and may include passing required assessments, completing background checks, meeting additional state-specific requirements and submitting a separate licensure application. Graduates must apply for licensure, certification or endorsement through their state’s department of education. The program may also prepare graduates to pursue a middle grades mathematics endorsement, where available. Make sure to study throughout your program to prepare for the licensure exam.

Graduates of a mathematics for secondary education program are generally prepared to teach mathematics at the middle or high school level. However, the specific grade range they are authorized to teach depends on state licensure requirements. Common subject areas may include algebra, geometry, probability and statistics, trigonometry, pre-calculus and calculus. The exact subjects and grade levels a teacher may teach are determined by their state's licensure or endorsement requirements.

Yes, this degree includes a student teaching component, which provides in-person classroom experience. Student teachers will engage in classroom observation, lesson delivery and supervised teaching experience. Under the guidance of their mentor, student teachers will apply instructional methods to the classroom.

This degree teaches a range of teaching methodologies, including differentiated education, assessment methods and data-driven instructional strategies. Students will also explore strategies in classroom management and engagement. They will examine the integration of educational technology into the mathematics classroom.

Students can complete the academic coursework for this mathematics for secondary education degree online^{(See disclaimer 1)} or on campus. However, required field experiences, practicum hours and student teaching must be completed in person at an approved school setting. Online students still have access to faculty support, student resources and assistance with field experience and student-teaching placement requirements.