B.S. in Mathematics with Secondary Education Licensure

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics with Secondary Education Licensure at Mississippi College is specifically designed to prepare highly competent and passionate mathematics teachers for grades 7-12. This integrated program provides a robust foundation in advanced mathematics while simultaneously equipping aspiring educators with essential pedagogical knowledge and practical classroom skills. Graduates are not only prepared for state teaching licensure but also possess a strong mathematical background that makes them versatile in other analytical fields. The program prides itself on graduates' high passage rates on the Praxis teacher certification exams and their desirability among school district administrators, offering a clear pathway to a rewarding career in education.

STEM-Designated: Yes, the B.S. in Mathematics with Secondary Education Licensure at Mississippi College is explicitly listed as a STEM-designated program on the university's official STEM Programs page. This designation is highly beneficial, particularly for international students, as it potentially qualifies them for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, allowing for an additional 24 months of work authorization in the U.S. beyond the initial 12 months of standard OPT. The STEM designation underscores the program's rigorous academic content in mathematics, reflecting its emphasis on critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and problem-solving, which are core to STEM fields.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.S. in Mathematics with Secondary Education Licensure at Mississippi College is comprehensive, blending in-depth mathematical study with professional education coursework. Core mathematics courses typically include extensive sequences in Calculus with Analytic Geometry (I, II, III, IV), Applied Linear Algebra, Foundations of Mathematics, Introduction to Modern Algebra, and Differential Equations I. Students also take courses such as Modern Plane Geometry and Elementary Statistics or Introduction to Probability and Statistics. The professional education component is crucial for licensure, encompassing courses like Educational Psychology, Classroom Management, Measurement & Evaluation of Student Progress, Psychology of Exceptional Children, and a significant Directed Teaching (student teaching) experience in local middle and high schools. This ensures graduates master both their subject matter and the art of teaching.

Research Focus: Mississippi College's Mathematics with Secondary Education Licensure program integrates an applied research focus, encouraging students to engage in both mathematical inquiry and educational best practices. While traditional "research labs" are more common in pure science fields, students in this program are taught to critically analyze educational theories, research-based instructional strategies, and assessment methods. They are encouraged to understand "how students think about and understand mathematics" through field experiences and coursework. The program aims to train future teachers to be reflective practitioners who can critically evaluate and implement effective classroom strategies. Faculty members, including those with expertise in mathematics education, guide students in developing their analytical and problem-solving skills, preparing them to engage with current research in the teaching and learning of mathematics.

Industry Engagement: Mississippi College's B.S. in Mathematics with Secondary Education Licensure program boasts strong industry engagement, directly preparing graduates for the teaching profession. The program facilitates extensive field experiences and a year-long student teaching internship in schools throughout Rankin, Hinds, and Madison counties, providing invaluable hands-on classroom exposure. Students are paired with experienced Clinical Instructors who mentor them. The School of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a national standard for teacher training, indicating robust connections with the K-12 education system. This accreditation, combined with the program's reputation for producing graduates with 100% passage rates on Praxis teacher certification exams, makes MC graduates highly sought after by school district administrators in Mississippi and beyond.

Global Perspective: Mississippi College is committed to fostering a global perspective across its academic programs, and the B.S. in Mathematics with Secondary Education Licensure inherently contributes to this. While the focus is on preparing teachers for the U.S. system, the universal nature of mathematics transcends cultural and national boundaries. The program prepares educators who can teach mathematical concepts that are globally consistent. Furthermore, the university's overall emphasis on a diverse student body enriches the learning environment, exposing future teachers to varied backgrounds and perspectives that will inform their approach to teaching diverse learners in an increasingly interconnected world. The broader university offers study abroad programs, providing opportunities for students to engage with new cultures and educational systems, further broadening their global understanding.