What is an M.Ed. in Mathematics Education?

Students looking to become math teachers, or certified math teachers seeking advancement, should consider earning a M.Ed. in Mathematics Education. The courses in this master's degree program teach you to understand and break down math subjects, like algebra and geometry, so you can teach these subjects to others. Read this article to learn more about this degree option.

<h3 id="section---M.Ed.InMathematicsEducation">M.Ed. in Mathematics Education</h3> <p>A M.Ed. in Mathematics Education degree program builds upon what the student learned while earning a bachelor's degree, like a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics. You can deepen your understanding of mathematics while learning about current research in the field of education. Typically, teaching certification is not granted alongside the M.Ed. degree and must be obtained separately. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutAnExecutiveJurisDoctorDegree">Important Facts about an Executive Juris Doctor Degree</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td>Common Courses</td><td> Proportional Reasoning in Middle School Math, Research Methods, Participant Observation</td></tr> <tr><td>Prerequisites</td><td> Bachelor's degree in a related field</td></tr> <tr><td>Specializations</td><td> Gifted in-field, ESOL, Instructional technology for teaching</td></tr> <tr><td>Online Availability</td><td> Fully online coursework available</td></tr> <tr><td>Median Salary (2021)</td><td> $96,280 (<i>for mathematicians and statisticians</i>), $79,640 (<i>for postsecondary teachers</i>)</td></tr> <tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 31% (<i>for all math occupations</i>), 12% (<i>for postsecondary teachers</i>)</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics </i></p> <h3 id="section---MathCourses">Math Courses</h3> <p>In a M.Ed. in Mathematics Education program, you'll take classes designed to improve your understanding of a given math subject. You also learn how to educate others on the subject. Courses vary with your chosen concentration. For instance, many schools offer separate courses for teaching elementary school math and secondary school math. Typical mathematics subjects covered include: </p> <ul><li>Geometry and measurement </li><li>Statistics and probability </li><li>Calculus </li><li>Algebra </li></ul><h3 id="section---EducationClasses">Education Classes</h3> <p>In addition to math courses, a mathematics education master's degree program will feature classes focusing on the process of learning itself. You'll be taught how people, particularly children, come to understand and remember mathematical concepts. Beyond the immediate mechanics of learning, classes cover other factors that can influence a child's education, such as poverty, discrimination and disabilities. You might also learn about: </p> <ul><li>Curriculum planning </li><li>Problem-solving methodology </li><li>Child psychology </li><li>Class, race and social issues </li></ul><h3 id="section---CareerOpportunities">Career Opportunities</h3> <p>A M.Ed. in Mathematics Education can lead to teaching positions at the middle school, high school and community college levels. School administrative positions usually require at least a M.Ed. degree as well. You can also find jobs designing curriculum, guiding educational policy and working in educational outreach programs. Some careers to consider include: </p> <ul><li>Secondary or postsecondary teacher </li><li>School administrator </li><li>Teacher trainer </li><li>Private tutor </li></ul><p>Even if you're already a teacher, a M.Ed. in Mathematics Education can improve your position. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, teachers can earn higher pay for attaining a master's degree.</p>