Graduate Programs of Study

Program Description
In April of 1999, the School of Education at DePaul University opened a new program for middle school mathematics teachers on its Lincoln Park campus. The program is designed to enhance participants' ability to teach mathematics in middle school and to prepare them to be leaders in the reform of mathematics education in schools.

Distinctive Features include:

• The design and content of the program is based on recent research on mathematics teaching and learning. In particular, mathematics is presented as an activity, a way of thinking which involves identifiable mathematical habits of mind.
• There is an organic integration of mathematics content and pedagogy; students will experience learning mathematics in appropriate ways.
• Curriculum materials from model middle school projects are incorporated with course work so that students will become familiar with and understand the underlying rationales of innovative materials.
• Issues of diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism are infused throughout the curriculum.
• The program will be connected to school and classroom experiences and will have a focus on restructuring mathematics education at the building level.

Additional Features include:

• The program starts in the Summer Quarter and continues through two academic years. Students who do not start in summer may join the program in September.
• The program provides a sequence of seven graduate courses that will meet once a week in the evening during the school year and more often during the summer.
• These courses provide 11 semester hours of mathematics credit towards the required 18 hours in mathematics required for a middle school endorsement.
• There is an option for students to include these courses in a Master’s degree in Curriculum Studies. Students who choose this option will need to take 6 additional courses, 3 core curriculum courses, 2 in social and cultural studies, and the introductory research course. These courses may be taken before, during, or after the 7 courses listed above.
• Insofar as possible, teachers move through the program as a cohort that contains teams of teachers.
• The program incorporates the NCTM Standards.
• Appropriate use of technology is incorporated throughout the program.

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Admission
Criteria
We have designed the program for certified teachers who are teaching mathematics in middle schools, who want additional preparation that will help them teach mathematics to all students in meaningful ways, and who would like to collaborate in the reform of mathematics education in their school. This means we are looking for applicants who are:

• Currently teaching mathematics in grades 5-8 and/or have a good mathematical background;
• Committed to the reform of mathematics education;
• Prepared to teach in multicultural settings to diverse populations; and
• Expecting to make a difference in their schools.

Materials Needed

1. An application to the Graduate School of Education at DePaul. (Write in "Middle School Math" at the bottom under "Programs and Degrees".
2. Include one set of official transcripts.
3. Include at least one reference from the principal or other administrator from your school.
4. A personal statement which clearly addresses the four criteria mentioned above.
5. A check made out to DePaul University for $25.
6. (If applicable) If you are a part of a team from a particular school that is planning to collaborate on the reform of mathematics education at your school, a statement clearly indicating who the team members are and what you hope to accomplish.
   

Procedures

1. Complete applications (including all of the materials mentioned above) should be received.
2. The Admissions Committee meets to evaluate the completed application and make a decision.
3. Letters indicating the committee's decision should be received at the address given on the application form.
4. Follow the steps outlined in the admissions letter to make sure you are properly enrolled in the program.

Learn about:

• Degree Requirements
• Career Emphasis Courses
• Information Sessions
• Faculty
• Program Resources
• Frequently Asked Questions
• To get more information
• Apply Now
• Application Deadlines

For More Information
Please direct questions or comments on the Curriculum Studies Program to Peter Pereira at: ppereira@depaul.edu, 773-325-4347.

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