Mathematics Education

Bachelor of Arts

Math teachers play a very important role in society. Math is one of the basic skills that kids must master – it’s a core competency for productive adults, but it’s also the foundation for careers in science and technology. Ensuring that talented individuals have the skills needed to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math is a top priority for educators and policymakers alike. So dedicated math teachers help our nation remain at the forefront of innovation.

The Mathematics Education program is for students who plan to teach math at secondary levels. As a major, most of your courses will focus on mathematics, so you’ll have a thorough expertise in math concepts. The required professional education courses provide the training you need to connect with young adults and communicate what you know.

The math education program is approved by the Kansas State Department of Education for licensure in secondary education. You’ll be required to pass pre-licensure exams prior to receiving your teaching license.

Why MNU?

Small class sizes and dedicated professors mean that you’ll get the personal attention that you need to grow and thrive. Your teachers are math researchers and professional educators, with the experience to provide expert mentorship and guidance.

As a teacher-in-training at MNU, you will benefit from hands-on experience teaching in local classrooms. Field and clinical experiences at our Professional Development School – Prince of Peace Catholic School here in Olathe, Kansas – enable students to gain a deeper understanding of the diversity of educational needs. Educational mission trips expand your learning even more, allowing teacher candidates to teach in diverse international settings.

Students benefit from a wealth of resources at their fingertips, with the Teacher Education Resource Center on the second floor of MNU’s Mabe Library. The center houses textbooks, trade books, curriculum guides, instructional materials and more, for use by students and faculty.

Clubs & Organizations

Math Club
Join math club for fun math-related activities, social events and community service. It’s a great way to explore your love for math while building friendships with classmates who share your interests.

Pi Lambda Theta
Pi Lambda Theta, our Education Honors Club, is an international professional association for educators. Join to help promote academic excellence, develop your leadership skills and gain professional opportunities.

Professional Teacher Candidate Organization
This local umbrella organizations is devoted to helping teacher candidates become professional leaders. The organization works to facilitate communication and collaboration between various educational organizations and learning communities. As a member, you’ll be able to participate in fundraisers, special events and community service; you’ll also be eligible for special scholarships.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

John Stephens Memorial Scholarships
Mathematics Scholarship
TEACH grant – The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education

(TEACH) Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to full-time students who plan to teach in schools that serve low-income families. To be eligible, you must complete the FAFSA and meet certain academic achievement requirements.

TEACH Grant Flyer

Field Experiences & Clinical Experiences

Students gain experience through field work – teaching practice in actual classrooms. Many students log up to 100 practice hours before their first formal teaching assignment. We place students throughout local school districts, such as:

Olathe, KS
Blue Valley, KS
Shawnee Mission, KS
Gardner, KS
Spring Hill, KS
Bonner Springs, KS
DeSoto, KS

You’ll complete four pre-student teaching field experiences in a number of schools. These four programs will be in the following areas:

Exceptional Learner & Practicum
Research & Differentiated Learning Practicum
Curriculum Development & Assessment & Practicum
Methods of Teaching Secondary Biology
Math Student Teaching & Seminar (12 weeks) or International Student Teaching (14 weeks)

Careers

As school districts continue to grow, teachers are always in demand, making education a stable and rewarding profession. Your degree in mathematics education will prepare you to teach in school districts throughout Kansas, contributing to the health of your community and serving as a positive influence in children’s lives.

Alumni

Math education graduates have an outstanding rate of employment. MNU has an excellent reputation with local schools; in fact, many school districts actively recruit our graduates.

Alumni currently serve as teachers in Olathe School District, Bonner Springs School District, Lansing School District, Solomon School District, Gardner School District, Kansas City Kansas School District and more.