<p>Hi,</p>
<p>My J wants to major in math education. She has good stats: 3.75 GPA, 2130 SAT's (760/m, 680/CR, 690/CW). She has lots of extra curriculars, is a lifeguard and counselor this summer and next year has an internship at a middle school.</p>
<p>Any suggestions are appreciated.
Thanks,
Mbe</p>
<p>My understanding is that many math departments have programs for prospective math teachers, rather than stand alone majors.</p>
<p>I quote from the Harvard guide "Mathematical Sciences at Harvard":
To accommodate those students who want to teach mathematics in the public school system after graduation, the Mathematics Department offers a sub-concentration "Mathematics and Teaching." Students choosing this option must be simulatneously enrolled in the Undergraduate Teacher Education Program (UTEP)...</p>
<p>I don't know whether LACs have UTEPs, but I should think most universities would.</p>
<p>Swarthmore offers an Education department that can lead to Pennsylvania teacher certification. A typical track for math teacher certification would be a combined Math department/Education Department special major. The required student teaching is covered in the Education department courses.</p>
<p>I'm guessing that many other of the LACs in the region probably offer a similar kind of program.</p>
<p>Many New England states now require a master's degree for on-going certification; NCLB also requires that teachers be "highly qualified" which means a UG that's not in education. Your D might consider an UG degree in math and a year at her local state u getting her master's. RPI offers a great summer program--three summers--that results in an MAT in Science or Math teaching.</p>
<p>Some colleges will have you major in the subject you plan to teach, in this case, math, and then with elective courses you complete the necessary education coursework and do a student teaching experience in senior year. Upon graduation you have your degree in Math with secondary school certification (after filing the appropriate paperwork). Some states (like NJ) have reciprocity with nearby states with regard to certification. Like if you are NJ certified, then you can file for reciprocal certification in PA. I think a friend's daughter is doing this, as she graduated from an NJ college and is also job-hunting in PA.</p>
<p>Most teachers should also be prepared for finishing Master's degrees during their teaching career as noted above.</p>