Academics

Mathematics Education, B.A.

As a Whitworth mathematics education major, you'll not only acquire the background needed to meet Washington state requirements for teaching math at the middle and high school levels, but you'll also gain a deep understanding of mathematics and its intricate interconnectedness. This major is designed to prepare you to be an effective math educator who inspires the next generation of learners, fosters a love for mathematics and equips students with critical problem-solving skills.

Why major in mathematics education at Whitworth?

Get to know your professors through research opportunities, study abroad programs and department events. In courses such as Research Methods, professors work with students outside of class on students' research projects.
Develop critical-thinking skills. Each course will challenge you to grow in your mathematical maturity through analysis, reasoning, evaluation, decision-making and problem-solving.
Discover your career path. Through our Career & Vocation Seminar, visit workplaces and learn about the array of options available to math education majors.
Have fun and build community with fellow students through clubs, service-learning opportunities and social events. The mathematics & computer science department hosts several parties each year, including a Christmas party hosted by faculty and a Pi Day party.
Connect your faith with your learning. You will be encouraged to incorporate your worldview into your classes, for instance by considering the link between miracles and probability.
Become who you're meant to be.

Ask our faculty

Ask Martha

mgady@whitworth.edu

Associate Professor Martha Gady specializes in math education and statistics.

Ask Diana

dschepens@whitworth.edu

Associate Professor Diana Schepens specializes in general applied math.

Our mathematics grads make a difference (and get jobs)

Pair your degree with a B.A. in secondary education or pursue a Master in Teaching to gain experience in the classroom and hone your career direction.

Recent job placements include:

Hannah Edstrom, math teacher, McKnight Middle School, Renton, Wash.
Melanie Mumford, math teacher, Timberline Middle School, Redmond, Wash.
Genevieve Symons, math teacher, Cheney High School, Cheney, Wash.

Our recent mathematics grads further their studies in top graduate programs at institutions including:

University of Washington
Washington State University
University of Oregon
Oregon State University
University of Idaho
University of Colorado Boulder
Michigan State University

Opportunities outside the classroom

Tutor Whitworth students in the math lab. If you're thinking of becoming a teacher, this is a great way to develop your skills.
Apply for a summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). Whitworth math majors have recently completed highly competitive REUs at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and the Rochester Institute of Technology.
Put your problem-solving skills to the test by participating in the national Putnam and Kryptos competitions.

Pack your bags!

Bring your textbooks to life through the Math History study abroad program. This faculty-led Jan Term program will take you and your peers to England, France and Germany, where you will travel to places where famous mathematicians lived and worked. See the buildings they planned, the equipment they worked with, their manuscripts and their inventions. You'll gain an understanding of how mathematical ideas have developed over time and how math has contributed to society and culture.

What related majors can I explore?

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