Mathematics, Secondary Education
The major in mathematics is the foundation of the department's curriculum. The basic
program can be complemented with further courses depending on a student's interest.
Common directions of targeted preparation include graduate studies in a mathematical science and careers in statistics, finance, or operations research. Graduates
have used a mathematics major as preparation for seemingly non-mathematical careers
ranging from law to business to the ministry. Recent LVC graduates have obtained
positions such as operations research analyst, bank credit analyst, marketing manager,
and mutual fund accountant. Other mathematics graduates have taken positions involving
computer system support and installation.
Typically, candidates for secondary teaching certification in mathematics must be prepared for, and successfully complete, MAS 111, 112 (Analysis) and MAS 113, 114 (Intro to Mathematical Thinking) in their freshman year to complete the program in four years. Preparation for these courses is determined by a review of the student's academic record and through the Calculus Readiness Test, which is administered during a New Student Advising Day.
Students seeking secondary certification in mathematics must complete: a major in mathematics including the following:
MAS 322 Abstract Algebra
MAS 325 Geometry
CSC 131 Intro. to Programming (w/Java)
One course from:
MAS 270 Intermediate Statistics
MAS 372 Mathematical Statistics
Required education courses:
SED 115 Intro to Teaching and Learning
SED 366 Teaching of Math in Sec Schls
SED 421 Content Area Literacy
SED 431 Practicum & Methods II
SED 440 Student Teaching
Additional Certification Requirements
Students seeking teacher certification must also complete a number of additional processed and requirements outlined in the Steps to Pennsylvania Teacher Certification document on the Education Department web page. Along with other requirements, these include a minimum GPA and the following coursework:
1. Completion of one English composition course.
2. Completion of one English or American literature course.
3. Completion of two college-level mathematics courses.
4. Completion of required Special Education coursework:
SPE 250 Cog Devel of Diverse Learners
SPE 255 Special Ed. Process & Proced.
The following course is required for music education majors and may also be required for students transfering credits into any certification program from other institutions:
SPE 258 Instruct & Behav. Strategies
5. Completion of one of the following ESL courses:
For early childhood/special education certification: EDU 240 Lang, Diversity, Achiev.: Pk-8
For secondary education certification: EDU 245 Lang, Diversity, Achieve: 7-12
K-12 certification (art, languages, and music) candidates may take either course.