Mathematics Education

Why Major in Mathematics Education?

The math education major is an accredited program primarily focused on the skills needed for teaching secondary education. Students take both mathematics and education classes to help understand the concept behind mathematical formulas and develop the tools necessary to teach future students on those concepts.

Class sizes are small and follow a cohort model. Students learn the latest techniques and technology to effectively teach high school students, using tablets, smartboards and software programs.

Minor in Mathematics Education

Mathematics Education Minor, 23 hours: B.S.Ed.
Designed for students interested in teaching math to middle school students, and will require the enrollment in and completion of a middle school education major.

Mathematics Education Minor, 30 hours: B.S.Ed., Secondary Program (Certifies Grades 9-12)
With proper choice of electives, this minor meets minimum Missouri certification standards for grades 9-12 when added to an existing education major certification program. Students should obtain a minor advisor early in the program.

The pre-student teaching semester includes is a mini student teaching opportunity that lasts one week. Faculty observe and provide feedback that prepares students for their required semester-long student teaching.

Career Opportunities

100%
placement rate

100% of students who graduate with a degree in math education obtain employment or continue their education within six months after graduation.

Northwest’s math education program is highly respected by surrounding educators, and it is common for principals to call Northwest in search of math teachers.

*Based on self-reported data.

Career Ready. Day One.

Northwest ensures students are career ready, day one through internships, field experiences and networking opportunities. Read Liz's story »

Beyond the Classroom

Northwest offers field experiences that are embedded into courses and include pre-student teaching and pre-professional semesters.

Pre-student teaching is a “mini student teaching” opportunity lasting one week. Northwest faculty observe and provide feedback that prepares students for their required semester-long student teaching.

The pre-service teaching conference is an annual conference that students and faculty attend to learn new teaching methods.

Student Organizations

Northwest Student Chapter of Mathematical Association of American (MAA) promotes the interest and study of mathematics through problem-solving, meetings, lectures and social events.

Pi Mu Epsilon is a national honorary society that promotes mathematics and honors students who have excelled in the major and helps students who need assistance with their studies.

For a full list of student organizations with in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics »

Study Abroad

Study Abroad is an opportunity for students to apply hands-on international experience to their academic development. Faculty members provide short-term study programs that prepare students before, during and after the program. Two types of study abroad programs are available: faculty-led and traditional study abroad.

The traditional program may be a semester, summer or year-long program and is taught by Northwest’s international partner institutions.

For more information about study abroad opportunities »

The Northwest Difference

Founded in 1905, Northwest is a traditional campus with more than 7,200 undergraduate and graduate students. Located in the middle of everywhere, Maryville is two hours from Omaha, Nebraska and Kansas City, Missouri and 2 ½ hours from Des Moines, Iowa.

The Bearcat Advantage provides out-of-state students the opportunity to earn in-state tuition rates that can save more than $6,000. With the average undergraduate financial aid award of $5,467 for in-state students and $8,286 for out-of-state students, Northwest offers a quality education at an affordable price.
At Northwest, the American Dream Grant covers 100% of the tuition and fees for Pell-eligible students.