2025-2026 Academic Catalog

Mathematics Education (5-12), B.A.

The Mathematics Education (5–12) major prepares students to teach mathematics in middle and high school settings. The program combines rigorous study of mathematical concepts—including algebra, geometry, calculus, probability, and statistics—with research-based instructional strategies tailored to adolescent learners. Students learn to design engaging lessons, assess student understanding, and support diverse learners in developing mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Program outcomes align with the Montana Professional Educator Preparation Program Standards for Mathematics Teachers (ARM 10.58.518).

For specific Student Learning Outcomes see Education and Mathematics

I. Major Program Requirements

Required classes:

MA 131Calculus of Single Variable Functions

4

or

MA 121Differential Calculus

3

and

MA 122Integral Calculus

3

 

MA 141Introduction to Mathematical Modeling

4

 

MA 233Multivariable Calculus

4

MA 301Teaching Math Content & Methods Mdl Grade

3

MA 306Real Analysis

3

MA 315Probability and Statistics

3

MA 321Math in the Mountains

3

MA 328Modern Applications of Discrete Math

3

MA 334Adv Diff Equations & Linear Algebra

4

MA 342Applied Numerical Methods & Analysis

3

MA 401Abstract Algebra and Modern Geometry

3

MA 421Math Optimization, Applications & Analysis

3

MA 471History Seminar in Mathematics

1

 

MA 422Senior Project

3

or

MA 499Senior Thesis

1.00 - 3.00

MA 422, MA 499: for a total of at least 3 credits

II. Other Program Requirements

Two semesters of college science approved by the mathematics department.

III. Professional Education Requirements

Requirements for Mathematics Education Major

All Secondary Education majors must take ED 318 for 4 credits.
AN 218/SO 218Intro Native Am Studies

3

ED 102Foundations of Education

3

ED 229Educational Psychology

3

ED 245Diversity Field Experience

1

ED 250Middle School Teaching

3

ED 305Classroom Management

2

ED 316Measurement and Assessment in Teaching

3

ED 318Content Area Reading & Sec Teach Methods

3.00 - 4.00

ED 405Education Seminar

2

ED 410Student Teaching - Major Or Major/Minor

12

 

PSY 203Developmental Psychology

3

or

PSY 227Child & Adolescent Psychology

3

 

SPED 200Introduction to Exceptional Children

3

SPED 206Collab & Conference for Educators

3

MA 250Mathematical Writing

1

 

IV. Admission to the Teacher Education Program and Student Teaching

Students pursuing a major in any Teacher Education Program must be admitted to the program.  See Admission to the Teacher Education Program for specific details. 

Students must submit an application in order to student teach. See Admission to Student Teaching for specific details.

To earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Mathematics for Secondary Education, a student must pass the mathematics senior exit exam and earn a grade of “C-” or better in all of the courses listed under “Major Program Requirements,” “Professional Education Requirements,” and “Other Program Requirements.” A lesser grade in any of these courses must be replaced before the Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in mathematics for secondary education will be granted. In addition, lesser grades in any of these courses preclude taking subsequent courses for which the deficient courses are prerequisite.

Note:

  1. All secondary education students must consult both with the Department of Education and the Department of Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science and Physics.
  2. All Mathematics Education (5-12) students must meet the following requirements: 
  • Earn a grade of “C-” or better in all Professional Education Requirements, Major Program Requirements, and Other Program Requirements;
  • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 for Admission to the Teacher Education Program;
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in Major Program Requirements, Other Program Requirements and Professional Education Requirements for Admission to Student Teaching.
  1. See Secondary Education Requirements.