Overview
If you are seeking initial certification to teach mathematics in grades 7-12 in New York state, the M.A.T. in adolescence education: mathematics is designed for you. This program provides a pedagogical foundation that complements a solid mathematical background.
Program Highlights
SUNY Cortland will prepare you for initial certification as you earn a master of arts degree. In the M.A.T. in adolescence education: mathematics, you will develop proficiency in your mathematical content knowledge, assessment of student learning and problem-solving ability. You’ll also learn about inclusive and effective pedagogy and how to critically reflect upon and explain teaching practices.
The mathematical core begins with course work in fundamental mathematical concepts and progresses through non-Euclidean geometry, number theory, cryptography, fractals, real analysis and the foundations of calculus, rings, and fields. You will develop a mastery of mathematics upon which you can build a curriculum for adolescents.
The professional core is devoted to the development of expert teaching practices. Courses include topics in classroom technology, teaching adolescence mathematics, language development, literacy and advanced psychology. Special emphasis is given to working with students who have difficulties learning mathematics, serving diverse student populations, using technology to promote active learning and developing skills in assessing student learning.
Finally you will spend a full semester student teaching in grades 7-12.
Culminating Experiences
When you complete this New York state-approved teacher preparation program, you are eligible for your initial and professional teaching certification for mathematics in grades 7-12. You are required to submit a professional portfolio and to pass a comprehensive examination.
Assistantship Opportunity
A limited number of graduate assistantships is available.
Career Potential
With an M.A.T. in adolescence education: mathematics (7-12) from SUNY Cortland, you are well prepared to teach middle and high school students or at a two-year college or to work as a curriculum coordinator or educational administrator. If you pursue an M.A., M.S., Ph.D. or Ed.D. in mathematics or math education, a career in higher education, business, industry or government employment also is an option.
Graduate Admissions
Evaluation Policy
At the State University of New York College at Cortland, we seek a diverse and academically strong student body. Our admission policy and practice will not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, national origin or marital status.
Required Materials
- Completed online Graduate School Application - Apply Now
- Official transcripts from all institutions of higher learning attended to be forwarded directly to SUNY Cortland Graduate Admissions Office
Note: candidates for admission must present evidence of bachelor's degree conferral prior to the start of their academic program.
- Two letters of recommendation, the first addressing suitability for teaching adolescents and the second addressing mathematical ability, submitted online with application
Admissions Criteria
- Bachelor's degree from a accredited college or university
- An overall undergraduate grade point average of at least 2.5 and above on a 4.0 scale
- Demonstrated proficiency equivalent to successful completion of the second semester (102) of a college-level foreign language sequence
- An undergraduate course in either educational psychology or adolescent psychology such as PSY 232 or PSY 332
- A health education course that fulfills NYSED mandates for teacher education programs such as HLH 110, HLH 199 or HLH 510
- A minimum of 30 credit hours of approved mathematics courses including the following:
- at least 12 credit hours of calculus, analysis or differential equations
- at least three credit hours in each of the following areas:
- mathematical reasoning and proof
- linear algebra
- geometry
- probability and statistics
- history of mathematics
- abstract algebra
- real analysis
Deadlines
Fall semester applications: July 1
Spring semester applications: Dec. 1
Summer semester applications: April 1
Applications submitted after the deadline may be considered on a space availability basis.
Please contact the Graduate Admissions Office at (607) 753-4800 to check availability.