academic programs
The Mathematics Department offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Undergraduates can earn a B.A. or B.S. in mathematics, or they can minor in mathematics. Graduate students can earn an M.S. in mathematics education, an M.S. in mathematics education with certification, or a secondary school mathematics teacher certification.
Undergraduate Degree Program
- Majors in Mathematics: The major provides the basic mathematical tools for applications in business and industry, such as actuarial science and computer work, statistics, operations research, teaching mathematics at the secondary school level, or pursuing graduate studies in mathematics, statistics, or related fields.
- Minors in Mathematics: The Mathematics Department has developed its minor program to complement a variety of majors including biology, computer science, earth science, economics, physics, political science, psychology, and liberal studies. As part of a liberal studies major, the mathematics minor is also a good choice for elementary education majors. In fact, the minor in mathematics is compatible with any major at Southern.
Graduate Degree Program
- Graduate Program Mission and Outcomes
- Secondary School Mathematics Teacher Certification: The certification program in secondary school mathematics is designed to accommodate a wide range of professionals. Depending upon their background, candidates in this program complete a sequence of mathematics and professional courses which will include a student teaching practicum. Students wishing to teach under a Durational Shortage Area Permit (DSAP) must first complete a minimum of 21 credits of mathematics courses in the certification program, and must also pass the PRAXIS II examination in mathematics. Effectively July 1, 2010, Connecticut law requires all students in teacher/educator certification programs to undergo state and national criminal history background checks before participating in school-based field experiences and student teaching. Please consult this website for additional information.
- Master of Science Degree in Mathematics Education: The Master of Science degree in Mathematics Education is designed primarily for certified mathematics teachers, allowing for the scholarly study of mathematics as well as the development of skills that aid in teaching. Each applicant must complete core requirements of 21 credit hours. Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree and have had a minimum of 18 semester hours of undergraduate mathematics including calculus, geometry, linear and abstract algebra, probability, and statistics with overall 3.0 undergraduate grade point average. Deficiencies may be overcome by taking appropriate courses under advisement. A personal interview by the Mathematics Department graduate admissions committee is required.
- Master of Science Degree in Mathematics Education with Certification: Applicants who are not certified teachers may simultaneously enroll in a planned master's degree program leading to certification to teach mathematics, grades 7-12. Candidates in this program first complete the certification requirements. In order for initial certification to be elevated to professional certification, the State of Connecticut requires 30 additional credit hours of graduate study.