Mathematics: Secondary Teaching Emphasis, B.A.

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Program Director: Shawn Wirts Ph.D.

Mathematics Major Overview

The mathematics majors provide students with an understanding of the concepts and procedures in the field of mathematics. The subjects offered at FPU range from the historical and philosophical ideas that drove the development of this field to modern day applications of mathematics using appropriate technology to model and problem solve; all are founded on the solid logical footing of mathematical theory.

Students may choose from two distinct degree programs. For the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree in Mathematics, students may choose an emphasis in General Mathematics , Secondary Teaching, or Pure Mathematics . For the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Mathematics, students pursue an emphasis in Applied Mathematics .

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Communicate mathematical results and arguments clearly, both orally and in writing.

2. Develop critical thinking skills and apply mathematical reasoning to apply theorems, solve problems, form conjectures, prove or disprove statements and evaluate and interpret results.
3. Distinguish between and understand computational/methodological skills and use them appropriately and effectively.

4. Use problem-solving skills and develop strategies necessary to solve real-world problems mathematically, including mathematical modeling and the use of appropriate technological tools.

5. Understand the central role of mathematics in the sciences and recognize the relationship between mathematics and creation.

Locations Offered
Main Campus Fresno

Emphasis Overview

Within the B.A., the emphasis of Secondary Teaching is intended to give students a sense of the human story and the philosophical underpinning of mathematics, with requirements similar to the emphasis in General Mathematics. The Secondary Teaching emphasis is specifically designed to prepare students to enter credentialing programs for secondary education in mathematics upon graduation, and additionally encourages future mathematics educators to shape their elective coursework to fulfill expectations of graduate programs like the Teacher Education Program.

The total coursework requirements include a minimum of 46 units of mathematics beyond the general education prerequisites.

General Education Or Other Prerequisites

Required Courses (37 Units)

Electives (9 Units)

Select three of the following:

MATH 325 - Introduction to Topology 3
MATH 345 - Numerical Analysis 3
MATH 357 - Operations Research 3
MATH 365 - Differential Equations 3
MATH 370 - Discrete Mathematics 3
MATH 375 - Introduction to Game Theory 3
MATH 454 - Complex Analysis 3
Computer science courses (advisor approval required)
MATH 477 - Independent Research in Mathematics 1-3
Must be taken as a 3 unit course

Teacher Education Program Information

Students who are interested in applying for admission to the Teacher Education Program should consult with their academic advisors and/or contact the Regional Enrollment Office prior to (2 or more semesters before) completion of their degrees.

Admissions Requirements:

Applicants to the Teacher Education Program are required to complete the following in order to be considered for admission.

Online application
Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
A written request to waive the GPA requirement can be submitted for Program Director consideration.
Three letters of reference
Personal statement documenting experience working with youth LA 385 - Critical Approaches to Teaching is recommended to students, as it provides school-based experiences with youth that meet this requirement.
Verifications of negative TB test and Certificate of Clearance.

Testing Requirements:

Students are strongly encouraged to complete the required tests prior to admission to the credential program. Students must meet established testing requirements to progress into the student teaching or internship phase of the Teacher Education Program.

Passing results on CBEST
Passing results on CSET for area of credential

Required Co-Requisite Courses:

Students are strongly encouraged to complete the required co-requisite courses as part of their undergraduate programs. If not completed prior to admission to the Teacher Education Program, the equivalent graduate-level courses can be added to a student's academic plan for the credential program.

LANG 340 - Introduction to Linguistics 3 units
PSY 355 - Adolescent Development 3 units
PS 120 - American Politics and Society 3 units or HIST 150 - American Civilization 4 units