Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

 

 

General
Degree Information

Who Should Apply?

Schedule of Course Offerings

Faculty

How Do I
Apply?

Frequently Asked
Questions

 

1. What are the program goals?

The program is designed to support the professional development of K-8 teachers who want to improve their mathematics instruction.

Topics to be addressed include:

  • What are the unifying mathematical ideas behind the K-8 mathematics curriculum?
  • How can mathematics be empowering for all children rather than an elite few?
  • How do children (as opposed to adults) think about mathematics?
  • What does it mean to have a deep understanding of mathematics?
  • How can we effectively assess our students' understandings?
  • How can research improve our instruction?
  • What mathematics education issues are being discussed locally, nationally and internationally?

2. I am a full-time teacher. Will I be able to complete this program?

We have structured the program to accommodate the schedules of full-time teachers. For example, all classes are scheduled to begin after 4:00 PM.  In addition, you will be able to integrate much of the coursework into your own classroom instruction.

3. How many courses are required for the degree and when will I take these courses?

The entire program will span from Fall 2008 through Spring 2010 and requires a total of ten courses. You will take two courses each fall and spring semester, and two courses in Summer 2009. Each course is three units and requires three hours of class time per week. Fall and Spring courses will be offered from 4:15 - 7 PM on Mondays and Wednesdays. Summer courses will have a varied schedule but will never meet before 4 PM. You will also have a few Saturday classes during the summer.

4. Who are the program faculty?

SDSU has a diverse mathematics education faculty that include faculty in the School of Teacher Education and the Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences. Mathematics educators at SDSU include Nadine Bezuk, Janet Bowers, Vicki Jacobs, Lisa Lamb, Joanne Lobato, Ricardo Nemirovsky, Susan Nickerson, Randolph Philipp, Chris Rasmussen, and Rafaela Santa Cruz.

5. What are the requirements and admission procedures to get into the program?

We are looking for students who are interested in exploring how to teach and learn mathematics more effectively -- you do not need to be a math whiz to join the program. In general, qualified applicants will:

  • have teaching experience in grades K-8 or request special consideration because of their interest and/or experience in education.
  • meet the masters degree admission requirements for SDSU (i.e., 2.75 GPA in the last 60 semester units (or 90 quarter units) of study).
  • have a combined verbal and quantitative GRE score of at least 950.

Note: For every cohort, there will be additional program requirements. Contact the program director for additional information.

To apply to the program, you will need to:

  • complete two applications: one from the School of Teacher Education and one from the University Graduate Division (you can download the applications and directions on the page, How Do I Apply?),
  • provide your Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores,
  • submit one set of official transcripts (in sealed envelopes) reflecting all of your previous coursework at the undergraduate level and above.
  • submit at least one letter of recommendation.

6. Do I have to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)? How do I go about doing so?

Yes, GRE scores for the general test are required, and you need to take the test before you can be admitted to the university and begin the program. Scores from previous years are acceptable. You will need to provide a copy of the scores sent to you by the Educational Testing Service (http://www.ets.org/) or request that they send official GRE scores directly to San Diego State University. The institution number for San Diego State University is 4682. 

The GRE is now offered on the computer, and there are test administrations regularly. You can take the exam on campus ((619) 594-0968) or at the Prometric Test Center at 5075 Shoreham Place, Suite 180, San Diego, CA 92122 (858-866-2120). If you took the exam in past years, you may also mail a copy of the scores to the Graduate Admissions Office. The cost of the exam is $140. To get additional information, you can call 1-800-GRE-CALL or go to their web site at http://www.gre.org/. 

7. I have heard about the Math Specialist positions in some of the area school districts. Will this program certify me to be a Math Specialist?

There are 12-unit mathematics specialist certificates designed for upper elementary and lower elementary levels. The Master of Arts program, although it is generally more comprehensive than either specialist certificate, does not certify you to be a Math Specialist. If you would like to find out more about the specialist certificate, contact Nadine Bezuk at 619-594-3971.

8. I am also considering pursuing a Master of Arts degree from the department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at San Diego State University. What is the difference between these two programs?

The Master of Arts program offered through the School of Teacher Education focuses on teaching mathematics in grades K-8. While there will be some mathematics incorporated into the program, the primary emphasis will be on how to teach and learn mathematics at the K-8 levels. This program also utilizes a cohort model so that you will work with the same students throughout the program. Your common experiences will provide you with multiple opportunities to build relationships and share expertise.

The Master of Arts program offered through the Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences focuses on secondary mathematics education. The program has a strong mathematics component and students design an individual course of study. If you would like to find out more about the mathematics department's program, contact Susan Nickerson at 619-594-4338.

9. What are tuition costs?

Tuition and registration fees at San Diego State University (for California residents) is currently $1318 for up to 6.0 units per semester. Fees may increase. Please check the website at http://bfa.sdsu.edu/fm/co/sfs/registration.html. Parking is $135 per semester and may also increase.

10. Am I eligible for financial aid or scholarships?

The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships encourages students to apply. For more information, contact SDSU's Financial Aid and Scholarships office at (619) 594-6323.

11. What are the major components that are required to graduate from this program?

1. Thoughtfully complete the appropriate coursework (30 units total) and maintain your GPA in those courses to a level acceptable by program directors and university guidelines.

2. Take and pass a required Comprehensive Examination. You will take the exam some time in your last 2 semesters of the program. Project directors will provide you with guidelines regarding the exam and will provide suggestions for studying.

3. Complete a Master of Arts final project. You will learn about the project expectations in the two courses that are designed to support your successful completion of the project (ED 795A and ED 795B)

4. File an Application for Graduation. Graduation is not automatic upon completion of degree requirements. An application for graduation may be obtained in the Graduate Division and Research office, Centennial Hall, Room 3320. The phone number is (619) 594-5213. Complete and submit the form to the Cashier's Office with the appropriate fee by the deadline of the term in which you expect to graduate. Consult the current Class Schedule for the filing deadline date.

12. Are there easier or faster ways to complete my Master of Arts degree in Education?

There are faster ways (most of which cost more money), but our program is designed to help you deeply explore the teaching and learning of mathematics so that you can make sound changes in your teaching.  We are excited about the program we have put together and hope to find a cohort of thoughtful teachers to participate.