Good teachers know they need to acquire a deeper understanding of math themselves. They also know they must adapt and even rethink their teaching practices.With Maryland’s adoption of the Common Core State Standards, expectations for K-12 students are higher than ever — especially in mathematics. The Hood College Graduate School, located in Frederick, Maryland, offers a master’s degree in math education and a certificate option designed to prepare teachers to ensure their students make the grade.
From algebra and graph theory to cutting-edge technological tools, master’s candidates learn through doing — just as their students do. Top-notch faculty members with deep connections in the region’s school districts bring proven experience to instruction, modeling research-based pedagogy and process in active, hands-on classes. The goal is to immerse students in current math content and equip them to teach it dynamically and effectively.
The only one of its kind in Western Maryland, the 30-credit master’s degree program combines courses from both mathematics and education and affords students the expertise of faculty from both fields as well. The middle school track is designed for students without an undergraduate degree in mathematics, while the high school track is for those who have completed an undergraduate math degree. Those who do not want or need a full master's degree may choose to earn a certificate in secondary mathematics education. Yet another option is to transfer the five certificate courses into a master's program later.
