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B.S. in Secondary Education (7-12) - Mathematics
York, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The B.S. in Secondary Education (7-12) with a Mathematics concentration at York College is built on a "partnership program" philosophy, emphasizing a strong foundation in both the theory and practice of education and mathematics. This program prepares graduates for professional teacher certification in grades 7-12 in Pennsylvania. It aims to develop educators who can effectively guide middle and high schoolers through core academic subjects like algebra, geometry, and calculus, ensuring they not only understand mathematical principles but can also inspire a deeper appreciation for the subject. The curriculum is designed to equip future teachers with research-based skills and techniques proven to be effective in diverse classroom settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum is rigorous, blending comprehensive professional education coursework with in-depth study in mathematics. Required mathematics courses typically include Calculus I, Statistics, Linear Algebra, Calculus III, Differential Equations, Advanced Discrete Mathematics, College Geometry, History of Mathematics, and Abstract Algebra, along with Mathematical Probability and Statistics. This ensures a broad and deep understanding of mathematical theory. Concurrently, professional education courses cover topics such as Educational Psychology, Multicultural Education and Intercultural Competence, School Law and Ethics, Strategies for Teaching, the Teaching of Mathematics, Learning Environments, Content Area Literacy, ELL Foundations, and Educational Assessments. A significant component of the curriculum involves extensive field experience and a culminating student teaching semester, providing practical application of learned theories and skills.
Research Focus: While the Secondary Education (Mathematics) program is primarily focused on professional preparation for teaching, it intrinsically incorporates a research-informed approach. The Education Department's curriculum emphasizes developing research-based skills and techniques. Students are guided to understand why mathematical steps work, not just how to follow them, which is a pedagogical approach rooted in deeper understanding and research. Faculty members, who are experts in mathematics and education, encourage students to explore and apply current research in mathematics education, including effective teaching strategies, student misconceptions, and the role of mathematics in social justice. This focus ensures future educators are equipped to make data-driven instructional decisions and continuously improve their teaching methods based on evidence.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a critical component of York College's Secondary Education (Mathematics) program, largely through its extensive and scaffolded field experiences within local middle and high schools. The college maintains strong connections within the educational landscape, partnering with various public, charter, and other educational organizations. Students gain hands-on teaching experience from early in their program, gradually increasing their responsibilities, culminating in a full semester of supervised student teaching. This direct classroom immersion allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, refine their teaching techniques, develop classroom management skills, and build invaluable professional networks with experienced educators and administrators, preparing them for successful entry into the teaching profession.
Global Perspective: York College of Pennsylvania offers various study abroad opportunities that can significantly broaden a Secondary Education (Mathematics) major's global perspective. While these experiences may not always directly involve teaching mathematics in international schools, they expose students to different cultures, educational systems, and diverse approaches to learning. By engaging with international communities, future educators can enhance their cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills. This broader perspective is increasingly valuable for teaching in multicultural classrooms and understanding the global relevance of mathematics, preparing them to connect with and effectively educate an increasingly diverse student population. The college also emphasizes global citizenship within its general education requirements, which can include courses like World Regional Geography.
Location
York, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 26920
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
York College of Pennsylvania offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students in achieving their academic goals while easing financial burdens. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and other special talents among international applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to York College are considered for merit-based scholarships automatically during the admissions process. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall application strength. High-achieving students can receive significant tuition discounts, which help make studying in the U.S. more affordable.
International Student Scholarships: York College provides dedicated scholarships for international students, which may include renewable awards throughout the duration of their degree program. These scholarships acknowledge the diverse backgrounds and contributions international students bring to the campus community.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain academic departments at York College offer scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional performance or promise in their chosen field of study. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities by contacting their academic departments directly.
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Secondary Education (7-12) with a Mathematics concentration from York College of Pennsylvania primarily prepares graduates for roles as certified middle and high school math teachers. However, the strong analytical, problem-solving, and logical reasoning skills developed through this rigorous mathematics and education program also open doors to a diverse range of careers in fields that value quantitative abilities, even outside traditional teaching. The program's emphasis on practical application and research-informed instruction further enhances a graduate's versatility.
High School Mathematics Teacher (Grades 9-12): This is the most direct and common career path. Graduates are fully certified to teach various high school mathematics courses, including Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus, in public or private school settings.
Middle School Mathematics Teacher (Grades 7-8): Graduates are also qualified to teach mathematics at the middle school level, focusing on foundational concepts and preparing students for more advanced high school math.
Academic Tutor/Test Preparation Instructor: Leveraging their deep content knowledge and pedagogical skills, graduates can provide individualized or small-group tutoring in mathematics, or work for test preparation companies helping students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, or AP Calculus exams.
Curriculum Developer (Mathematics): With an understanding of both advanced mathematics and effective teaching methodologies, graduates can work for educational publishers, online learning platforms, or school districts to design and refine mathematics curricula and instructional materials.
Instructional Coach/Mentor Teacher: Experienced math teachers with this degree can advance to roles where they support other educators. They might provide professional development, help implement new teaching strategies, or mentor new teachers within a school or district.
Data Analyst (Entry-Level): The strong quantitative and analytical skills honed in a mathematics program are highly valuable in data analysis roles. Graduates can work in various industries (e.g., finance, marketing, healthcare) to collect, interpret, and present data to inform business decisions. While some roles may prefer a dedicated data science degree, a math education background provides a solid foundation.
Actuarial Assistant/Analyst: This career involves applying mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in the insurance and finance industries. While becoming a fully certified actuary requires a series of professional exams, a mathematics degree provides excellent preparation for entry-level actuarial positions.
Financial Analyst (Entry-Level): Graduates with strong mathematical reasoning can pursue roles in finance, analyzing financial data, market trends, and investment opportunities for banks, investment firms, or corporations.
Educational Technologist: As educational technology evolves, graduates can specialize in integrating digital tools, learning management systems, and interactive software to enhance mathematics instruction in schools or for educational software companies.
Youth Program Coordinator (STEM/Math Focus): Graduates can work for non-profit organizations, community centers, or after-school programs that offer STEM-focused initiatives. They can design and lead engaging activities and workshops that promote mathematical thinking and problem-solving among young people.
