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Mathematics (5-8 or 8-12)

  • Grade Levels:
    5-8, or 8-12
  • Credits for Licensure:
    35-38
  • Credits:
    30
  • Degree:
    Master of Education
  • Program Approved:
    Massachusetts Dept. of Elementary & Secondary Education

Program Description

Gain the specialized skills and training to effectively teach mathematics at the middle (5-8) and high school levels (8-12). The Mathematics Education program explores the concepts, language, and procedures of mathematics—advancing your math education and developing your ability to apply mathematics to the world around you. Available in licensure and non-licensure options, the program is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Who Is the Mathematics (5-8 or 8-12) Program Designed For?

This program is designed for adults who want to help children learn the language of mathematics; current teachers who wish to add mathematics as a new subject area; and those wishing to become National Board Certified mathematics teachers, coaches, specialists, and directors. It’s also well suited for non-mathematics majors who wish to enhance and broaden their teaching careers, and career changers who wish to pursue a rewarding job that involves teaching children mathematics. This program currently only offers licensure for students in Massachusetts.

Cambridge College Mathematics Program Highlights

Earn your master’s in mathematics education at Cambridge College. We provide high-quality, affordable graduate programs designed to fit your life:

  • Career-focused learning. Graduates of the mathematics education program are ready to lead in the classroom, adept at using the latest technologies, and prepared to advance social justice.
  • Hands-on training. The math education curriculum links theory and practice in a collaborative learning environment. Licensure students will complete a mathematics teaching practicum (for grades 5-8 or 8-12) and a supporting seminar that provides a cohort for students to address problems and find solutions.
  • Diverse experiences. As one of the most ethnically diverse colleges in the United States, Cambridge College offers the opportunity to gain new perspectives from working with other adult learners from all over the world. This program also features a Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Content License Endorsement Course to prepare licensure candidates to address the needs of a diverse and ever-changing student population in Massachusetts.
  • Flexible course options. The master’s in mathematics education is delivered via convenient day, evening, weekend, and online course options designed to fit your busy schedule.    

Cambridge College is one of the most affordable four-year private nonprofit colleges in the United States, offering quality education at a low rate of tuition.

Mathematics (5-8 or 8-12) Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program are skilled teachers with strong mathematics content knowledge. Through the coursework, you’ll learn to make connections between math and other fields to deepen your students’ understanding, and use technology as an essential mathematics tool. You’ll also learn inclusive practices to create a safe and collaborative learning environment, and how to implement well-structured lessons with measurable assessments of learning.

Jobs in Mathematics Education

Teaching mathematics to children and high school students is a rewarding career that gives you the chance to make a difference and change lives. Qualified math teachers are also in high demand—in Massachusetts and across the nation.

Jobs in mathematics for program graduates include:

  • Math teacher (grades 5-8 or 8-12)
  • Mathematics specialist
  • Mathematics coach
  • Mathematics director

You don’t have to have a background in teaching to benefit from this program. Individuals coming from careers in business, engineering, finance, and the military are often very successful in relating the importance of mathematics to the real world they have worked in for many years.

Example Mathematics (5-8 or 8-12) Courses

The math education program features courses such as:

  • Discrete Mathematics
  • Inclusion in Math Class
  • Diagnosis and Remediation of Learning Problems in Mathematics (K-12)

Download the Mathematics (5-8 or 8-12) program sheet.

Mathematics Scholarships and Financial Aid

You may qualify for grants, scholarships, loans, and other types of financial assistance to help pay for your master’s degree in mathematics. Learn more about applying for financial aid at Cambridge College.

Many companies also offer tuition assistance programs that can help to pay for education. Find information about getting your company to help.

Related Programs at Cambridge College

If you’re still exploring degree options, you might be interested in learning more about these programs at Cambridge College:

Mathematics Specialist Certificate

Curriculum

Take the courses and practicum listed for your chosen level. 

Please note: At Cambridge College locations outside of Massachusetts, this program is currently non-licensure only.

Mathematics Courses (grades 5-8)
30
Credits
Program Portfolio Integration
EED 735

Students are required to enroll in this 0-credit course during the first semester of their program experience. Enrollment in this 0-credit course activates student access to the Tevera portfolio which facilities the tracking and storage of essential documents required for program completion.

Arithmetic to Algebra: Developing Patterns and Ideas (K-8)
MAT 603 • 3 credit(s)
This course explores the relationship between the study of arithmetic and of algebra in grades K-8. Teachers explore selected mathematical concepts at an adult level and discuss how children develop an understanding of it. They explore ways to facilitate classroom learning, and effective activities and materials that enhance learning of algebraic concepts and skills. They learn how to use vertical acceleration to connect arithmetic to algebra.
College Algebra
MAT 607 • 3 credit(s)
This course focuses on the major components of a college level course in algebra: real, rational, and irrational numbers; linear, radical, and quadratic equations and inequalities; functions and graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; conic sections; systems of equations and inequalities; and sequences and series. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Euclidian Geometry
MAT 609 • 3 credit(s)
This course emphasizes the fundamental ideas of Euclidean geometry with a focus on logic, observations, predictions, and conclusions. Significant geometric properties and concepts are explored through the systematic presentation of the axioms, definitions, constructions, and theorems of classical geometry. Major topics include: the foundations of geometry, direct proofing techniques, triangles, parallel lines, and polygons, right triangles and the Pythagorean theorem, circles, and solid geometry. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Common Core Math
MAT 623 • 3 credit(s)
This course covers the teaching pedagogy of the basic foundation of the mathematics curriculum in terms of its numerical and geometric structures. Major topics include number sense, numeration, estimation, mental math, modeling operations using concrete objects, geometry, spatial sense, and measurement. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
History of Mathematics
MAT 615 • 3 credit(s)
This course will show how the historical perspective accentuates many different approaches to problem solving thus allowing mathematics to take on an international, multicultural flavor. It will illustrate how mathematics history creates a bridge from the past to the future and how students can learn to value mathematics more by being exposed to its historical and cultural contexts. Major trends in mathematical thought are introduced, as well as the interplay of mathematical and technological innovations, and the contributions of great mathematicians. Prerequisites: MAT 607, MAT 609, and MAT 611 or program chair’s approval.
Calculus I
MAT 611 • 3 credit(s)
This course focuses on trigonometric and calculus concepts by providing numerical, graphical, and algebraic approaches for a clear understanding and mastering of the material. Course activities are placed in a context of real-world problems which enable students to create mathematical models that will help them understand the world in which they live. Major topics include: continuity, limits’ derivative of a function, anti-differentiation, definite integral, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Prerequisites: MAT 607 and MAT 609 or program chair’s approval.
Inclusion in Math Class
MAT 700 • 3 credit(s)

This course promotes collaboration between mathematics and special educators to improve instruction and outcomes for all students, including students with disabilities. This course provides a structure for developing shared visions, common language, foundational knowledge of mathematics instruction, and the instructional needs of math students with disabilities. The Mathematics Curriculum Frameworks serve as a foundation for high quality core curriculum and instruction addressing conceptual understandings and practices that are an essential part of rigorous math expectations. 

Discrete Mathematics
MAT 613 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisites: MAT607 & MAT 609 or program chair’s approval. This course is designed to cover the major components of discrete mathematics by studying the connections among mathematics topics and real-life events and situations, emphasizing problem solving, mathematical reasoning, and communications. Major topics include: counting and number systems; combinatorics; codes; recurrence relations; graphs and networks; and matrix operations. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Technology in Mathematics Learning & Teaching (K-12)
MAT 605 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisites: MAT607, 609, 611 & 613 or program chair’s approval. This course provides teachers with a strong foundation in effectively using technology in mathematics classrooms, K-12. They develop and implement comprehensive lessons for teaching mathematical concepts and skills using calculators, graphing calculators, computer graphing, algebra and geometry software, and internet resources. This course makes educational technology an integral component of the teaching, learning, and assessment of mathematics instruction and learning. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Probability and Statistics
MAT 633 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisite: MAT 613. This course focuses on how probability and statistics can reveal a more complete picture of the world, by emphasizing concepts and applications from a wide range of fields. Major topics include: concept of sample space; descriptive measures; probability and sampling distributions; estimation and hypothesis testing; analysis of variance; correlational analysis; regression analysis; experimental design; modeling; and decision criteria. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Mathematics Courses (grades 8-12)
30
Credits
Program Portfolio Integration
EED 735

Students are required to enroll in this 0-credit course during the first semester of their program experience. Enrollment in this 0-credit course activates student access to the Tevera portfolio which facilities the tracking and storage of essential documents required for program completion.

Discrete Mathematics
MAT 613 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisites: MAT607 & MAT 609 or program chair’s approval. This course is designed to cover the major components of discrete mathematics by studying the connections among mathematics topics and real-life events and situations, emphasizing problem solving, mathematical reasoning, and communications. Major topics include: counting and number systems; combinatorics; codes; recurrence relations; graphs and networks; and matrix operations. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Inclusion in Math Class
MAT 700 • 3 credit(s)

This course promotes collaboration between mathematics and special educators to improve instruction and outcomes for all students, including students with disabilities. This course provides a structure for developing shared visions, common language, foundational knowledge of mathematics instruction, and the instructional needs of math students with disabilities. The Mathematics Curriculum Frameworks serve as a foundation for high quality core curriculum and instruction addressing conceptual understandings and practices that are an essential part of rigorous math expectations. 

Probability and Statistics
MAT 633 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisite: MAT 613. This course focuses on how probability and statistics can reveal a more complete picture of the world, by emphasizing concepts and applications from a wide range of fields. Major topics include: concept of sample space; descriptive measures; probability and sampling distributions; estimation and hypothesis testing; analysis of variance; correlational analysis; regression analysis; experimental design; modeling; and decision criteria. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Non-Euclidean Geometry
MAT 629 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisite: MAT 609. This course reviews a variety of approaches to the axiomatic developments of Euclidean plane geometry; followed by a treatment of non-Euclidean geometries, and the geometric properties of transformations, particularly isometries. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Calculus I
MAT 611 • 3 credit(s)
This course focuses on trigonometric and calculus concepts by providing numerical, graphical, and algebraic approaches for a clear understanding and mastering of the material. Course activities are placed in a context of real-world problems which enable students to create mathematical models that will help them understand the world in which they live. Major topics include: continuity, limits’ derivative of a function, anti-differentiation, definite integral, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Prerequisites: MAT 607 and MAT 609 or program chair’s approval.
Abstract Algebra
MAT 627 • 3 credit(s)
This course focuses on why no formula solution to the quintic equation is possible by presenting all the concepts necessary for the construction of Galois Theory. This includes the study of finite groups, fields, and field extensions. Consideration is also given to various morphisms; as well a rings and integral domains. Some time is spent on classical algebra including exact solutions to the cubic and quartic polynomials. Prerequisite: MAT 607 or program chair’s approval.
Calculus II
MAT 631 • 3 credit(s)
This course begins with a thorough review of the Calculus I. It then proceeds to cover integration techniques in some depth. This will include integration-by-parts, u-substitution, and trigonometric-substitution. Power series and their applications are covered as well. Prerequisite: MAT 611.
Number Theory
MAT 625 • 3 credit(s)
This course focuses on integers and their application in a technology-rich world. Major topics include: prime numbers, Diophantine equations, congruences, quadratic-residues, order of a number mod p, Fermat’s Little Theorem, Euler’s Theorem, and Gauss’s Lemma. Applications to check-digits and encryption covered as well. Prerequisite: MAT 611.
Technology in Mathematics Learning & Teaching (K-12)
MAT 605 • 3 credit(s)
Prerequisites: MAT607, 609, 611 & 613 or program chair’s approval. This course provides teachers with a strong foundation in effectively using technology in mathematics classrooms, K-12. They develop and implement comprehensive lessons for teaching mathematical concepts and skills using calculators, graphing calculators, computer graphing, algebra and geometry software, and internet resources. This course makes educational technology an integral component of the teaching, learning, and assessment of mathematics instruction and learning. Pre-practicum hours of directed field-based training required.
Applied Mathematics
MAT 635 • 3 credit(s)
This course focuses on major areas of applied mathematics. This includes matrix theory, differential equations and Fourier analysis. Under matrix theory, linear transformations and diagonalization are covered in some depth, and the Cayley-Hamilton Theorem is proved. Under differential equations, linear versions are explored using an operator approach which motivates development and application of Laplace transforms. Finally we cover Fourier series after an advanced review of trigonometry. Prerequisites: MAT 611 and MAT631 or program chair’s approval.
Practicum Prerequisites
1-4
Credits
  • Pass all MTEL teacher tests required for this license: Communication & Literacy, and Middle School Mathematics or Mathematics (8-12).
  • SEI605 Sheltered English Immersion (3 additional credits) or Mass. ESE-endorsed course or SEI MTEL.
  • Pass all required courses.
  • Pre-Practicum — Successfully complete program-specific hours in diverse settings (0 credit)
  • EDU704    Practicum Readiness (1 credit)
  • Submit Practicum Application and Placement Approval Forms.
SEI (Sheltered English Immersion) Content License Endorsement Course
SEI 605 • 3 credit(s)
This Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Content License Endorsement Course is designed for educator licensure candidates in all core academic areas, to prepare them to address the needs, and build on the multilingual and multicultural assets, of a diverse and ever-changing student population in Massachusetts. The course is a key element of the Massachusetts RETELL initiative (Rethinking Equity and Teaching for English Language Learners). RETELL also includes statewide implementation of the WIDA ELD (English Language Development) standards, and the WIDA-ACCESS assessment tools. Participants will be introduced to ELD standard and WIDA tools, and will practice applying research-based SEI instructional strategies as they teach their content to English language learners (ELLs). They will also be introduced to a variety of professional growth opportunities to prepare them to extend their learning by making SEI the focus of professional practice within the new educator evaluation process.
Practicum Readiness
EDU 704 • 1 credit(s)

This course is specifically designed to determine readiness for the practicum. It will assist the teacher candidate to develop his/her skills to be ready to assume the role of student teacher from the first day of practicum. Students will understand the requirements of CAP by engaging in and completing the forms for each of the "essentials" and completing their own goals. All of the Tevera components, other than the practicum documents, will be completed. MTELs will be completed. Those having difficulty with the MTELs will be directed for support. Fieldwork assignments will be required.

Practicum (licensure students only)
4
Credits

Guided and evaluated by a licensed/certified math teacher in the classroom and Cambridge College mathematics supervisor. Practicum locations are subject to ESE regulations and must be discussed with the program chair and approved by the pre-practicum/practicum coordinator.

Take the practicum and practicum seminar for your chosen level.

Practicum: Mathematics Teaching (5-8) 300 Hours
MAT 794B • 2 credit(s)
Effective Fall 2012: 300 hours (previously 150 hours). Prerequisites: Pre-practicum, pass all required mathematics courses and EME800; pass all teacher tests required by Massachusetts for this license. Practicum Seminar required concurrently: MAT791. The seminar for classroom experience supports students’ growth as they assume the teaching role. It is the setting for students to interpret their field-based experiences and transform them into skills, knowledge constructs, attitudes and values. The seminar provides a cohort/support for students to address problems and find solutions, while utilizing current academic research and practices. They master understanding and practice of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, develop the skills necessary for the teacher tests, and become familiar with the current reforms and changes in state regulations on educator licensure. Exit Performance Portfolio required for credit.
Practicum: Mathematics Teaching (8-12) 300 Hours
MAT 794C • 2 credit(s)
Effective Fall 2012: 300 hours (previously 150 hours). Prerequisites: Pre-practicum, pass all required mathematics courses and EME800; pass all teacher tests required by Massachusetts for this license. Practicum Seminar required concurrently: MAT791. The seminar for classroom experience supports students’ growth as they assume the teaching role. It is the setting for students to interpret their field-based experiences and transform them into skills, knowledge constructs, attitudes and values. The seminar provides a cohort/support for students to address problems and find solutions, while utilizing current academic research and practices. They master understanding and practice of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, develop the skills necessary for the teacher tests, and become familiar with the current reforms and changes in state regulations on educator licensure. Exit Performance Portfolio required for credit.
Practicum Seminar: Mathematics
MAT 791 • 2 credit(s)
Practicum required concurrently: MAT790. Exit Performance Portfolio required for credit. The seminar for classroom experience supports students’ growth as they assume the teaching role. It is the setting for students to interpret their field-based experiences and transform them into skills, knowledge constructs, attitudes and values. The seminar provides a cohort/support for students to address problems and find solutions, while utilizing current academic research and practices. They master understanding and practice of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, develop the skills necessary for the teacher tests, and become familiar with the current reforms and changes in state regulations on educator licensure.
Download Program Sheet

Program Chair

617-873-0425leba.heigham@cambridgecollege.edu

Pages

Admissions

  • Admission Test:

    No standardized graduate school tests required for admission into non-licensure programs

  • Admissions Office:
    1-800-829-4723
  • Application Form:
    Apply Online Now
  • Application Fee:
    $50 ($100 for international students)

Program Requirements

A math placement test is required, and is administered during the interview to assess applicant readiness to enter the math program selected and, upon acceptance, for program advising.

This program accepts students for the Fall term. Although the School of Education accepts applications on a rolling basis, program applications will not be accepted for the Fall in the four weeks prior to the start of the Fall term.

Health Requirements for Massachusetts Students 

The Massachusetts Health Department and Cambridge College require the following of students in Massachusetts:

Immunizations – All students in Massachusetts are required to get certain immunizations before you can register for your first term. See form

Health Insurance – In Massachusetts, undergraduate students taking nine or more credits/term and graduate students taking six or more credits/term must enroll in the College’s health insurance plan. Students who have insurance with comparable coverage may request a waiver. See information and enroll or waive.

 

School Requirements

International Students 

International students need to provide supplemental documentation:

  • Official demonstration of English language proficiency
  • Supplemental documentation for issuance of I-20
  • International transcripts, evaluated by an accepted evaluation service

Transfer Credit 

Please complete the transfer credit request form if you wish to have prior course work evaluated for transfer. Learn more about transferring credits.

 

Tuition

  • Credits for Licensure:
    35-38
  • Credits:
    30
  • Cost per credit hour:
    $639
  • Application Fee:
    $50 ($100 for international students)
  • Health Insurance Fee:
    $3,940 - Required for Massachusetts students only. See waiver details on Tuition & Fees page.)
  • Internship/Practicum Fee:
    $400

See all fees

Note: Rates are as of July, 2022, and are subject to change without notice. Rates apply to all students, unless otherwise noted.

Financial Aid

Cambridge College offers financial aid to students in our degree programs who are enrolled at least half time. Undergraduate students must be enrolled in at least 6 credits each term. Graduate and doctoral students must be enrolled in at least 4 credits each term. Learn more

Grants, Scholarships and Loans

Cambridge College welcomes the opportunity to support your efforts to pay for college.  Federal, state and local resources in the form of grants, scholarships, loans and work-study, including Cambridge College Scholarships, are available to help defray the cost of tuition. Learn more

Getting Your Company to Help

Many companies have tuition assistance programs, designed to help their employees with their professional development. Learn more

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