Admissions | Mathematics for Teachers MS

The Mathematics for Teachers MS is designed for individuals interested in strengthening their understanding of mathematics to enrich the teaching of mathematics. The program prepares teachers in subjects such as geometry, algebra, analysis/calculus, history of mathematics, probability, statistics, discrete mathematics, and the use of technology in the classroom.  Advanced training and specialized courses are offered for secondary school teachers of mathematics. 

 

Admissions Requirements

  • Meet PSU’s minimum requirements
  • Mathematics degree or strong background in mathematics
  • Completion of at least the following undergraduate courses with a grade of B or better: linear algebra,  introductory analysis/advanced calculus, college geometry, and abstract algebra/group theory. PSU equivalents are:
    • Mth 261 Introduction to Linear Algebra
    • Mth 311 Introduction to Mathematical Analysis I
    • Mth 338 Modern College Geometry
    • Mth 344 Introduction to Group Theory and Applications
  • Undergraduate courses in introductory statistics and discrete mathematics are recommended.

Deadlines

This program currently offers rolling admissions for each term (fall, winter, spring, summer). The application closes 2 weeks before the term starts.

Master's applicants seeking financial support must ensure all components of the application are complete by Feb. 1.

How to Apply

New Students

New students who have not yet applied to PSU must first apply to PSU.

 

Current Graduate Students

If you are currently enrolled in a graduate program at PSU and would like to add or change a program of study, you can do so by filling out a GO-19 Form. 

Application Materials

Below is the list of the materials and information you will need to provide as part of your application. We recommend preparing these materials in advance of submitting your application.

  • Personal Statement: A short statement about your reason for pursuing an MS MTCH degree, including your professional goals.
    • If applying for a GA position, you will also be required to upload a statement describing your background in mathematics/statistics, and previous teaching, tutoring, and/or grading experiences.
  • References: Submit contact information for at least two professional or academic references who can comment on your ability to do graduate work and your teaching potential. Portland State University will contact your references and provide them with instructions for submitting recommendation forms.
    • If applying for a GA position, you do not need to submit additional references but it is to your benefit to let your recommenders know that you are also applying for a graduate assistantship so that they can address your teaching potential in their reference letter. 
  • Copies of transcripts from each college or university attended
  • Proof of English Language Proficiency (if applicable)

Cost and Funding

The department offers a limited number of Teaching Assistantships, Research Assistantships, Fellowships and Scholarships. Program applicants are able to indicate their interest in an assistantship as part of the online program application.

If you applied for a graduate assistantship and you are in the first round of offers, the offer will be included in your admission letter. Applicants have until April 15 to accept or decline the offer. Once an offer is declined, an offer will be made to another applicant. This process may take some time until all available slots are taken. Please be assured that everyone who applied for a graduate assistantship will be contacted by the department by email once all available positions are taken. Please do not email the department asking about the status of your graduate assistantship application.

Contact 

If you have questions about the admissions process, please contact the Graduate Program Administrator at mathstatgrad@pdx.edu.

If you have academic advising or career related questions about one of our graduate programs, contact the advisor for your program of interest.