COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Education (BAED) in Mathematics (Middle Level Education) at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and prepares students to become licensed middle school mathematics teachers for grades 5–8. Students must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 2.50 and a 2.50 GPA in major content coursework while completing the requirements of the WSU General Education Program and the College of Education. The program blends advanced mathematical study with professional teacher preparation to build both strong content knowledge and effective teaching skills. General education requirements include foundational coursework alongside specialized preparation such as Adolescent Development, which helps future educators understand the learning needs and behavioral development of middle school students. The mathematics core includes key subject areas such as geometry, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, and mathematical reasoning, along with specialized courses like Evolution of Mathematics, Elementary Mathematics, and Mathematics for Middle School Teachers. Students also take Mathematics for High School Teachers and an approved mathematics applications elective, allowing flexibility to explore applied or advanced mathematical topics. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application of mathematics in educational settings. The teacher education component is structured into four sequential cores. Core I focuses on diversity, classroom foundations, and early field experiences. Core II includes instructional methods in mathematics, educational assessment, philosophy of education, and practicum experience. Core III provides a teaching internship in middle level mathematics along with literacy strategies and advanced instructional techniques. Core IV culminates in a full teaching internship with extensive classroom responsibility, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real school environments. Students must complete all teacher education courses with a minimum grade of B-. Licensure requirements include the Praxis II Mathematics Content Knowledge Test and the Teacher Licensure Capstone. Through the support of the College of Education and Wichita State University, graduates gain strong mathematical expertise, pedagogical skills, and extensive classroom experience needed for successful careers as middle school mathematics educators.