The MAT in mathematics is offered by the Department of Mathematics jointly with the University's College of Education. This degree program is designed specifically for students who wish to obtain certification in mathematics at the secondary level. The course work is in conformance with NCTM and State of SC Standards.
The MAT degree requires 30 approved semester hours of graduate-level course work in mathematics and education (exclusive of student teaching). The individual student's program is planned according to that student's background and goals. At least half of the student's course work must be numbered 700 or higher.
Each student's program of study must include a course in geometry (one from MATH 531, 532, 736-I), algebraic structures (MATH 546 or 701-I), analysis (MATH 554 or 703-I), probability and statistics (MATH 712-I or STAT 509), and two approved math electives at the 500 or 700 level. If similar courses have already been taken, appropriate substitutions will be made.
Unless previously taken, the student must also take a course in linear algebra (MATH 526 or 544), a course in discrete mathematics (MATH 574), and a course in computer science using a high-level programming language (CSCI 500 or CSCI 145).
MAT students must finish with an integrated view of mathematics comprising problem solving, reasoning and proof, and the interlocking connections between areas of mathematics and its applications. They are expected to communicate mathematics at appropriate levels for their audiences.
Course work in education must include Human Growth and Development (EDPY 705), The School in Modern Society (EDFN 749), a teaching skills course (EDSE 770 or 783). The student must also complete a sequence of mathematics methods courses (EDSE 550, EDSE 764), and a course in the teaching of reading (EDRD 518 or 730), and a program of directed teaching in mathematics (EDSE 584, EDSE 778A, and EDSE 778B) which is administered through the College of Education. Students must apply for admission to directed teaching through the College of Education's Office of Field Experience early in the fall or spring semester prior to the semester of directed teaching.
Upon admission to the MAT program, the student is assigned a faculty advisor in mathematics to assist in the development of the mathematics portion of the program. Approval of the candidate's program will be granted by a committee of three faculty members, consisting of the faculty advisor in mathematics, the faculty advisor in education, and a faculty member from either mathematics or education.
Each student must maintain a "B" average on all graduate level course work in mathematics and a "B" average on all graduate level course work in education.
Candidates for the MAT degree are required to pass a written Comprehensive Examination covering their program of study and emphasizing calculus, algebra (MATH 546 or 701-I), and analysis (MATH 554 or 703-I). This examination is offered three times per year through the College of Education Examination Program administered by its Office of Student Services. Students must apply to take the examination three weeks prior to the administration date. The MAT requires neither a foreign language nor a thesis.