The PGCEM course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

• to examine the theoretical frameworks used in the study of education and its constituent disciplines;
• provide training in research methods appropriate to education;
• advance students’ capacity for professional reflection and judgment;
• cater for a range of specialists interested within the field of education or one of its constituent disciplines.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of literature and concepts relating to mathematics education research and practice;
• show abilities in the critical analysis of mathematics education issues and practices;
• apply knowledge and understanding of educational research to plan and implement enquiry into an issue related to the course;
• communicate the outcomes of their study and research through extended writing conforming to stipulated academic expectations and conventions.

Continuing

Students wishing to continue from the PGCEM to PhD or EdD are required to achieve a mark of 70 or higher for the thesis.

The PGCEM Mathematics Masters modules are taught by means of a combination of lectures, seminars, reading groups, workshops and student presentations. Self-directed study includes pre-session readings, preparation for presentations, and practical research activities.

Feedback

Throughout the programme, written work is submitted and detailed feedback is provided.  Informally, feedback is also provided through regular supervisions.  At the end of each term, supervisors write an on-line report which can be viewed by the student via the Cambridge Graduate Supervision Reporting System.

Assessment

Thesis

The thesis is up to 20,000 words in length and submitted at the end of August.

Where a candidate receives a provisional fail mark, an oral examination is required.

Essays

IMPORTANT:  This course is only open to students who have completed the PGCE at the Faculty of Education.  PGCEM applicants are NOT required to submit transcripts or references.

The University of Cambridge offers a range of financing options for students pursuing the Mathematics Education program, aimed at supporting exceptional candidates from diverse backgrounds. Students are encouraged to explore scholarships, bursaries, and loan opportunities available through the university and external sources. The University provides various scholarship schemes specifically for education students, which are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or both. For international students, there are also access funds and hardship bursaries designed to assist with unforeseen financial difficulties. Additionally, the Cambridge Trust and other partner organizations offer funding opportunities, including full and partial scholarships for outstanding candidates. Prospective students are advised to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application procedures for each financial aid option. Many awards require separate applications, often accompanied by supporting documents such as academic transcripts, personal statements, and references. Some funding options are competitive and merit-based, emphasizing academic achievements and potential contributions to the field of mathematics education. Beyond scholarships, students may benefit from government-sponsored loan schemes in their home country or private educational loans to cover tuition fees and living expenses. The university also offers advice and support through its Student Advice Service and Financial Support Office, which can assist students in planning their finances and accessing available funding. International students should consider additional expenses such as health insurance, visas, and travel, and plan accordingly with the help of university resources. It is essential to maintain good academic standing and adhere to any scholarship conditions to retain funding throughout the course. Families and students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including charitable foundations and professional associations related to mathematics and education. Overall, the University of Cambridge is committed to making high-quality education accessible by providing comprehensive financial support options, aiming to reduce economic barriers and enable talented candidates to achieve their academic and professional goals in mathematics education.

The Mathematics Education program at the University of Cambridge is a specialized course designed to prepare students for careers in teaching mathematics at various educational levels. This program combines rigorous training in mathematical concepts with pedagogical skills necessary for effective teaching. Students will engage with advanced mathematical theories and methodologies, ensuring they have a solid foundation in the subject matter. In addition to core mathematics modules, the program emphasizes educational theory, curriculum development, classroom management techniques, and assessment strategies. The coursework aims to develop both subject expertise and teaching competencies, enabling graduates to inspire and educate future generations of students. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical teaching placements, and collaborative projects, students gain hands-on experience planning lessons, delivering instruction, and assessing student progress. The program may also include research components that explore innovative approaches to mathematics teaching and learning, contributing to the field's development. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a vibrant academic community that encourages intellectual growth and professional development. The program is often tailored to meet the standards of secondary school teaching, qualifying graduates for teaching positions across various educational settings. Graduates from this program are well-prepared to pursue careers as mathematics teachers in schools, education consultants, curriculum developers, or further academic research. The duration of the program is typically three years for an undergraduate degree, and it may include opportunities for additional training, internships, or specialized coursework depending on the specific pathway chosen. Oxford's rich academic tradition and reputation for excellence ensure that students receive a comprehensive education that balances theoretical understanding with practical application, making graduates highly competitive in the education sector.