The Satisfaction You'll Get From Teaching Math Adds Up
Do you enjoy working with others, particularly around mathematics? Does supporting someone to have an “ah-ha” moment in math bring you joy? Have you worked in a mathematics-related field and realize you have always had a longing to teach, or are now envisioning a career in teaching? If any of these are true, we would like to support your journey to becoming a middle and/or high school mathematics teacher.
There is a high demand for well-qualified middle and high school math teachers. For people like you, with a deep understanding of and passion for mathematics and a call to teach, we offer a program that prepares you to become a licensed math teacher who ignites and supports all students’ learning.
In the UW-Madison Teach Secondary Education Math Master’s Program, you will develop a conceptual appreciation and pedagogical understanding of secondary school mathematics (middle and high school) — one that will enable you to build students’ assets to create meaningful learning opportunities for all.
If you are excited to learn more about our program and how we empower and prepare you to be an equitable, student-centered educator, visit our website and/or reach out to our program coordinator anytime.
Mathematics Program Prerequisites
Candidates for the mathematics program must demonstrate specific criteria to be accepted, such as a relevant undergraduate degree, certain coursework or experience, and GPA requirements.
Non-U.S. Graduates: Review the graduate school’s application requirements for specific information about comparable degrees in your country and which academic documents are required.
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Earn a Relevant Undergraduate Degree
Applicants need to have (or have completed by June of the year they enter the program) a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or a comparable degree from an international institution with a major or a minor in one or more of an area associated with the certification area.
These could include:
- Mathematics, applied mathematics
- Statistics
- Accounting
- Actuarial science
- Computer science
- Engineering
- Economics
- Physics or other applied sciences
A wide variety of degrees are accepted. Must have studied algebraic reasoning, geometric reasoning, and statistics. To discuss your eligibility or to send us a statement and a copy of your transcript, email Lisa Hennessey at hennessey@wisc.edu.
Demonstrate Competency in Relevant Content Domains
Prior to admission, applicants must demonstrate competency within certain areas of their chosen subject. This may be demonstrated through coursework or significant life experiences.
All mathematics applicants must demonstrate competency in the following general areas:
- Calculus
- Advanced Algebra
- Geometry
- Combinatorics/ Probability
- Statistics
English Proficiency
All international degree-seeking applicants are required to provide proof of English proficiency. For more information on this requirement, check the English proficiency section on the Requirements for Admission page.
Non-native English speakers must also show adequate instructional verbal skills, by passing a verbal interview with the Secondary Education ESL team.
Get the Added Value of a Dual Certification/ESL Certification
Our program is infused with a philosophy that teachers must be able to engage and value all students in the classroom. Our approach allows you to work with a wide range of students that engage in US public schools. For the secondary content areas, this also includes skills and techniques to work with students learning English, including the opportunity to earn a dual English as a Second Language (ESL) Certification along with your content. This certification increases your potential impact as a teacher and gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.