Descriptions of Mathematics

The Single Subject Matter Preparation
Program in Mathematics

Course requirements for the Single Subject Matter Preparation
Program, 49-50 units, in conjunction with the Professional
Education Program, leads to a Single Subject Teaching
Credential.

In most majors, candidates for this credential will normally fulfill the
single subject matter preparation program by completing the appropriate
education option in the major. Any exceptions to this procedure are noted
at the end of this section. In addition to the single subject matter preparation
program, completion of an additional professional education program
is required to qualify for a California teaching credential. Professional
education (credential) programs are available through the School of Education.
For prerequisites and other admission requirements to professional
education programs, see the “Education” chapter of this catalog.

Your departmental credential advisor is responsible for verifying that
the subject matter preparation program has been completed. If you are
interested in obtaining a teaching credential, confer with the appropriate
credential advisor early in your University career. Department credential
advisors can assist you in planning an educational program that meets
both major and credential requirements.

Subject matter preparation requirements are governed by state legislative
action and approval of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
Requirements may change between catalogs. Please consult with your
departmental credential advisor for current information.

The Option in Mathematics Education and the core program, both
described previously, along with a professional education program, fulfill
all requirements for the Single Subject Matter Preparation Program in
Mathematics.

The Master of Science
in Mathematics Education

The MS in Mathematics Education is a 30-unit summer program that provides
an opportunity for secondary mathematics teachers to advance their
professional development by:
1. deepening and broadening their understanding of mathematics and of
mathematics education;
2. developing their understanding of mathematics education research and
its relationship to practice; and
3. developing their skills as teacher leaders in mathematics education.

Course Requirements for the Master’s Degree: 30 units

A minimum of three consecutive summers of enrollment is required.

Continuous enrollment is also required, and is defined as enrollment in
each summer term once the program is begun. Adjunct enrollment is
required for any summer the candidate does not enroll in courses. A maximum
of 9 semester units of transfer and/or CSU Chico Open University
course work may be applied toward the degree.

Graduate Time Limit:

All requirements for the degree are to be completed within seven years of
the end of the semester of enrollment in the oldest course applied toward
the degree. See “Graduate Education” in the University Catalog for complete
details on general degree requirements.

Prerequisites for Admission to Conditionally Classified Status:

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics does not admit students to
conditionally classified status.

Prerequisites for Admission to Classified Status:

1. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, or an equivalent
approved by the Office of Graduate Studies.

2. Course work equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in mathematics approved
by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

3. State certification to teach secondary mathematics.

4. Satisfactory grade point average as specified in “Admission to Master’s
Degree Programs” in the University Catalog.

5. The personal characteristics which are conducive to academic and
professional success, such as maturity, motivation, interpersonal skills,
leadership and breadth of experience as reported in two letters of recommendation.
The two letters should be from those who know the student’s
work, preferably one from a faculty member from a mathematics department
and one from the secondary teaching profession.

6. The motivation to pursue graduate study in mathematics education as
evidenced in a two-page written statement describing experience, purpose,
and career goals.

7. Approval by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and the
Office of Graduate Studies.

Advancement to Candidacy:

In addition to the requirements listed above:

1. Completion of 9 semester units of course work in residence, including
MTHE 601 and one course from MATH 610-660, Topics in Mathematics
for Teachers.

2. Formation of the Graduate Advisory Committee.

3. Development of a program of course work approved by the Graduate
Advisory Committee Chair and the Graduate Coordinator.

4. A minimum grade point average of 3.0.

Requirements for the MS in Mathematics Education: 30 units

1. Completion of an approved program consisting of 30 units of
400/500/600-level courses as indicated below. At least 21 units must be in
600-level courses.

Mathematics and Statistics: 15 units

15 units selected from:

Mathematics Education Research Courses: 6 units

2 courses required:

OR (the following course may be substituted for the above)