Mathematics (BA) + MS in Education Dual-Level Program

Why Mathematics (BA)?

A Mathematics (BA) degree is best-suited for those hoping to teach high school mathematics. Gain training across the diverse mathematics fields including calculus, algebra, and probability & statistics. Individuals with a BA degree in mathematics are equipped for math education as well as further graduate studies in various forms of mathematics. This dual-level program has the same career end goal of the Secondary Mathematics Education major (to be a certified teacher), but the dual-level program allows for more mathematics courses throughout its course of study. And at the end of five years, you’ll have two degrees: a bachelor’s in mathematics and a master’s in education. The majority of public school teachers in 2017–18 (58%) held a postbaccalaureate degree, so being a first-year teacher with a master’s degree already in-hand will put you among the ranks.

How it Works:

This dual-level program allows you to condense what would be six years of study (four-year bachelor’s + two-year master’s) into just five years by starting master-level courses as early as your junior year. You’ll be able to complete all requirements for both degrees in as few as five years without taking summer courses. By completing this program, you will be able to teach in both public and private schools, as this program prepares you to receive the Pennsylvania Instructional I Secondary Mathematics Education (7–12) certification and Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) English (7–12) certification.

You will also continue to receive your undergraduate scholarships and tuition aid for all five years of study, which will save you thousands of dollars.

Why Mathematics (BA) at Cairn?

• Study mathematics through an integrated biblical worldview that strengthens your faith in God.
• Join the Honors Program and dive deeper into a specific math concept or educational method.
• Learn mathematics in conjunction with Bible/theology courses, preparing you to minister to those in STEM careers.
• Interact with professors invested in you and your pursuits.
• Take graduate courses fully online, which provides schedule flexibility in the last two years of study.
• Prepare a final thesis paper or project on a topic of personal mathematical interest and an Instructional Design Project on specific pedagogical principles.
• Complete a Student Teaching assignments in multiple school settings related to your career goals (public or private, suburban or urban).

Career Paths

• High school math teacher (public, private, Christian, international)
• Middle school math teacher (public, private, Christian, international)
• Instructional Coach
• Curriculum Designer
• Graduate studies in mathematics
• Graduate studies in physics, biology, and chemistry
• Graduate studies in engineering