Mathematics

Bachelor of Science in Teaching and Learning Mathematics

Turn your interest in mathematics into the ability to help others understand it. WMU's teaching and learning mathematics program combines mathematical content with the study of how learners think, how teachers build understanding and how technology can support instruction. You will practice assessing student thinking and explaining ideas in ways that make mathematics more accessible. Designed for students planning to teach middle or high school mathematics, this degree provides the content-area foundation for WMU's post-baccalaureate Master of Arts in Teaching pathway to teacher certification.

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100%

of mathematics graduates are working or continuing their education

—2024-25 Post-graduation Activity Survey
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94%

of graduates working full time have a job related to their degree

—2024-25 Post-graduation Activity Survey
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98%

of Broncos had instructors who made them excited about learning

—2024-25 Post-graduation Activity Survey
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Pursue a B.S. in teaching and learning mathematics

The Bachelor of Science in teaching and learning mathematics prepares you to understand mathematics from both a learner's and a teacher's perspective. You will study mathematical theory while learning how adolescents develop mathematical ideas, where misconceptions arise and how different teaching approaches can support understanding. Coursework in teaching methods and educational technology gives you opportunities to design learning activities, assess student reasoning and communicate concepts for a secondary-school audience. Field experiences allow you to observe and practice these skills in educational settings. After completing the bachelor's degree, you may apply to WMU's Master of Arts in Teaching in secondary education; successful completion of that graduate program can lead to recommendation for Michigan teacher certification.

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What you'll learn

You will study geometric structures and explore how transformations can help explain geometric relationships. Methods courses examine curriculum, materials and activity-based approaches for teaching mathematics, with attention to how learners develop and communicate mathematical understanding. You will also use computing technology to support problem-solving and concept development in grades 7 through 12. Through field experiences, you will assess student thinking, practice teaching techniques and use evidence of student understanding to guide instruction.

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Student Quote

As I have progressed through my mathematics journey, I have found Western to be a welcoming and uplifting place to learn and grow. The department is close-knit and friendly, and being a part of a small community has given me the opportunity to explore my interests right alongside the faculty
— Ben Reisfeld

Where you'll be after graduation

This major is designed for students who plan to become middle or high school mathematics teachers through WMU's post-baccalaureate Master of Arts in Teaching pathway. Graduates have worked as mathematics teachers and tutors, and the degree can also support further study in mathematics education.

WMU’s Career and Student Employment Services helps you explore career options, connect with employers and prepare for the job market through personalized career advising, resume and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, internship and job search assistance, and career fairs. These resources help you identify opportunities that align with your interests and career goals while building the professional skills needed for long-term success.

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Making the most of your learning experience

WMU offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities that reinforce classroom concepts through hands-on application and community engagement. Collaboration with peers is an important part of learning, and the Math Club extends that engagement beyond the classroom through talks, activities and social events that connect you with the broader mathematical community. You are also encouraged to participate in seminars with graduate students and faculty. Field experiences give you opportunities to assess student thinking, practice teaching techniques, use technology to deepen understanding and design and implement lessons in local schools. You can also participate in outreach events such as the Math Carnival for K-8 students and families. Academic support resources such as the Tutor Lab and Learning Assistant Program provide assistance in early mathematics courses, while opportunities to support other learners can help you develop leadership and teaching skills. 

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What scholarships are available for a teaching and learning mathematics degree?

The Department of Mathematics is committed to supporting student success. Through the kindness and generosity of our donors, we award more than $300,000 annually in scholarships. New students majoring in mathematics are automatically considered for departmental scholarships, and continuing students can seek additional funding opportunities through Scholarship Universe.

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Frequently asked questions

A teaching and learning mathematics degree from WMU gives you the confidence and knowledge to pursue careers in education. Many go on to be certified to teach high school mathematics. One option to achieve certification is to complete the Master of Arts in Teaching.  The program teaches skills in critical thinking, logical reasoning, and communication of complex ideas.  Learn to approach complex challenges systematically, communicate technical ideas with precision, and discover patterns and structures that support decision-making across a wide range of industries.

Yes. The teaching and learning mathematics program includes field experiences where you can assess student thinking, practice teaching techniques, use technology to support learning and design lessons for local classrooms. You can also gain experience through mathematics outreach activities, like the annual Math Carnival, and opportunities to support other learners. If you continue into WMU’s post-baccalaureate Master of Arts in Teaching program, you will complete a year-long internship in a public school setting as part of your preparation for teacher certification.

Scholarships are available through the kindness and generosity of our donors, we award more than $300,000 annually in scholarships. New and continuing students majoring in mathematics are automatically considered for departmental scholarships. Continuing students can seek additional funding opportunities through Scholarship Universe.

There are no additional requirements beyond admission to WMU. 

There are several accelerated master's degrees.

You can choose from three mathematics majors: Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Math Teaching and Learning. The Mathematics major places greater emphasis on abstract reasoning. The Applied Mathematics major places greater emphasis on mathematical skills for applications across other disciplines. The Math Teaching and Learning major is designed for students planning to teach high school mathematics and, when combined with the Master of Arts in Teaching program, prepares students for teacher certification.

Mathematics can connect with many fields, allowing you to apply quantitative reasoning to the subjects and problems that interest you. If you are interested in the sciences, consider programs in geological and environmental sciences, physics, chemistry, biology or environment, geography and sustainability. You can also connect mathematics with design and technology through mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering and other engineering programs. Other complementary areas include economics and philosophy, as well as data-focused programs such as data science and statistics, computer science and accounting.