Mathematics Education is concerned with the learning and teaching of mathematics. The philosophy of the doctoral programs is that effective instruction in mathematics is based on the best information about how students learn mathematics, and on the examination of teaching practices. The doctoral programs are designed to promote significant research in the learning and teaching of mathematics.
Doctoral programs in mathematics education are housed in the School of Education within the College of Human Services, Education, and Public Policy (CHEP). Faculty who participate actively in the docoral programs include those in the School of Education and the Department of Mathematical Sciences.
Students can choose either the Ph.D. option or the Ed.D. option. The Ph.D. program focuses on developing research expertise and preparing students for positions at graduate universities. The Ed.D. program focuses on preparing leaders for positions in K-12 school settings. To accomplish the different goals, there are some differences between the programs in courses, exams, residency requirements, and the nature of the dissertation. Both programs assume a bachelor's degree or equivalent in mathematics, some teaching experience, and a Master's degree in mathematics, mathematics education, or a related field; however, applicants with special strengths and somewhat different profiles will be considered.
Ph.D. in Education
Specialization: Mathematics Education
The Ph.D. program consists of a set of core courses on general issues in education and research methodology (17 credits), a general education colloquium series (6 credits), five courses in mathematics education (15 credits), two courses in mathematics (6 credits), and a dissertation (9 credits). In addition, students are expected to pass a qualifying exam and assemble a portfolio demonstrating expertise in the common activities of the profession (e.g., presenting a paper at a professional conference). Additional details about the Ph.D. program can be found on the School of Education's program overview page.
The Ph.D. program is offered through collaboration with the University of Maryland and the Pennsylvania State University as part of the Mid-Atlantic Center for Mathematics Learning and Teaching. Applicants accepted into the program will be recommended as Fellows of the Center. Four of the courses in mathematics education and two courses in mathematics are offered jointly with faculty and students at Maryland and Penn State. Fellows also are expected to actively participate in a variety of research and teaching experiences that further the goals of the Center.
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership
Concentration: Curriculum & Instruction
Specialization: Mathematics Education
The Ed.D. program is designed for practitioners whose professional goal is to improve school curricula, instruction, and assessment through leadership, expertise, and scholarship. In contrast to typical Ph.D. graduates, Ed.D. graduates seek positions that do not require them to conduct research but rather to be familiar with the best knowledge in the field. Additional details about the Ed.D. degree can be found on the School of Education's program overview page.
Faculty
Advising Faculty
Tonya Bartell, Dawn Berk, Jinfa Cai, Brad Glass, Laura Glass, James Hiebert, Amanda Jansen, Mary Ann Huntley, Anne Morris
Supporting Faculty
School of Education
William Moody and Diana Wearne
Department of Mathematical Sciences
Cliff Sloyer
Mathematics and Science Education Resource Center
Kathy Hollowell and Jon Manon