BS Secondary Education Mathematics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of South Alabama

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education Mathematics at the University of South Alabama prepares students to teach mathematics to learners in grades 6–12. Combining advanced mathematical study with professional teacher preparation, the program helps aspiring educators develop subject expertise, classroom communication skills, and effective teaching strategies for a rewarding career in secondary education.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – General Education and Mathematical Foundations

Students build essential academic, quantitative, and communication skills through courses such as English Composition I, English Composition II, and Calculus II. These foundations strengthen analytical reasoning and prepare students for advanced mathematics and teacher-preparation coursework.

Year 2 – Advanced Mathematics and Educational Foundations

Students deepen their mathematical understanding through subjects such as Calculus III, Linear Algebra I, and Differential Equations I. They also develop an understanding of learners and educational technology through courses such as Human Growth and Development and Microcomputing Systems, connecting mathematical knowledge with future classroom needs.

Year 3 – Mathematical Reasoning and Teaching Methods

Students explore the structure and communication of mathematics through Foundations of Math, Elementary Geometry, and Introduction to Number Theory. Professional preparation expands through Fundamentals of Teaching, Middle Level Education, and Teaching Mathematics, helping students develop instructional strategies for diverse learners.

Year 4 – Professional Practice and Classroom Experience

Students refine their mathematical knowledge through History of Mathematics, Abstract Algebra I, and Applied Regression Analysis, alongside advanced mathematics electives. They also complete secondary field experience and a mathematics internship, applying their knowledge in educational settings and preparing for professional teaching.

Focus Areas

Mathematical foundations, calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, number theory, geometry, abstract algebra, probability and statistics, mathematics education, adolescent development, classroom instruction, curriculum design, content-area literacy, supervised teaching practice.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills, communicate mathematical concepts clearly, understand student development and diverse learning needs, design effective lessons, apply educational technology, assess student learning, and gain practical experience preparing to teach mathematics in grades 6–12.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The University of South Alabama's College of Education and Professional Studies reports that its teacher education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the Alabama Department of Education. Successful completion of the program and required examinations can lead to a recommendation for Alabama Class B certification in mathematics, subject to applicable certification requirements.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

The university's College of Education and Professional Studies emphasizes practical teacher preparation, authentic clinical experiences, and professional development. These opportunities support students in preparing for teaching careers, although a specific employability ranking or graduate employment rate for this individual degree was not identified.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The program connects mathematical theory with the realities of secondary-school teaching. Students build instructional skills through field experience, teaching-methods coursework, educational technology, and a mathematics internship. These opportunities help future teachers explain complex concepts, adapt instruction to different learners, and develop confidence in classroom settings.

Key practical learning opportunities include:

Secondary Field Experience: Develop familiarity with secondary-school classrooms and teaching practices.
Mathematics Teaching Methods: Explore instructional approaches specific to mathematics education.
Mathematics Internship: Apply teaching knowledge through supervised professional practice.
Microcomputing Systems: Develop technology-related skills relevant to education.
Content Area Literacy: Learn approaches for supporting reading, communication, and understanding within subject-specific instruction.
Teacher Education Resources: Benefit from clinical learning environments, educational technology, and mentoring within the teacher-preparation setting.

Progression & Future Opportunities

This degree is designed for students who want to turn their interest in mathematics into a meaningful teaching career. By combining mathematical expertise with classroom preparation and supervised teaching experience, graduates can pursue roles such as mathematics teacher, middle-school mathematics educator, high-school mathematics teacher, or mathematics curriculum and instructional support specialist.

Career development and progression opportunities include:

Teacher Certification: The program prepares eligible graduates for a recommendation for Alabama Class B certification in mathematics, subject to examination and state requirements.
Practical Classroom Preparation: Field experiences and the mathematics internship help students develop the skills needed for teaching positions in secondary schools.
University Career and Academic Support: Academic advising and college resources can support educational and career planning.
Employment Outlook: Mathematics teaching offers a defined professional pathway in secondary education. Salaries depend on location, qualifications, and employer; a verified program-specific employment rate or salary figure was not identified.
Professional Development: Teachers can pursue further certification, graduate study, and additional professional qualifications as their careers progress.
Industry Partnerships: No specific corporate partnership directly associated with this degree was verified.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue graduate-level study in mathematics education, secondary education, curriculum and instruction, or related educational fields. Eligible graduates may also consider an Alternative Master of Education pathway in Secondary Education, including a mathematics option, for advanced preparation and potential progression toward Alabama Class A certification. Admission and certification requirements apply.