M.A. in Teaching Middle Grades Mathematics

This master's program is designed for teachers with New Jersey certification in disciplines other than mathematics who are preparing to teach mathematics in the middle grades. The program of study is built upon Montclair's five-course Certificate in Teaching Middle Grades Mathematics that provides content preparation in the areas of algebra, geometry, number and operations, data and probability, and measurement. The remaining courses in the masters program provide both breadth and depth in subject matter and mathematical pedagogy to further prepare teachers to effectively teach today's recommended curriculum. Teachers who successfully complete the master’s in Teaching Middle Grades Mathematics will have the mathematical knowledge and related pedagogical skills to be teacher leaders in their buildings districts and, for some, at the state and regional level. The program of study combines the fundamental concepts and principles that underlie middle school mathematics and includes connections to topics in the mathematics curricula that both precede and follow the middle school curriculum. Thus teachers who successfully complete this master’s degree will be able to make connections across the mathematics curriculum and to other disciplines. Their increased content knowledge and pedagogical skill will result in an observable and enhanced level of confidence, enthusiasm and comfort with mathematics, which in turn will foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of mathematics in their students. Middle grade students who experience a broad and rich exposure to mathematics are academically prepared to succeed in a first course in Algebra, either in the middle school or high school. Students thus prepared will have more options in terms of high school course selection, post high school education and career paths.