Mathematics Education

The Mathematics Education MA is for teachers, tutors and others interested in how mathematics is taught and learnt. The programme gives students the opportunity to explore issues in mathematics teaching, to consider the theoretical underpinnings, and to carry out a rigorous study of mathematical learning.

In the two core modules students consider research-based developments in mathematics teaching and their related sociological, psychological, curricular and linguistic issues, and they engage with mathematics itself, finding implications for teaching. Optional modules and the independent dissertation/report explore learning with digital technologies, study the wider values and practices of education, and allow teachers to develop and critique their own practice.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The Mathematics Education MA consists of two core modules (60 credits), two optional modules (60 credits) and a dissertation (60 credits) or report (30 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma, two core modules (60 credits), two optional modules (60 credits), full-time nine months or flexible study up to five years, is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate, two optional modules (60 credits),flexible study over a period of up to two years, is offered.

Core modules

• Understanding Mathematics Education
• Mathematics for Teachers

The module A level Mathematics Pedagogy is not scheduled to run in 2017-18, but is an allowed alternative core module, replacing Mathematics for Teachers.

Optional modules

• Digital Technologies for Mathematical Learning
• What is Education?

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a 17,000-word dissertation or 8,000-word report.

Teaching and learning

Teaching varies according to the modules and includes face-to-face seminars and discussions of reading, mathematical workshops, student presentations, as well as online interactions. Only one module, Digital Technologies in Mathematical Learning, can be studied at a distance. 

Normally applicants are expected to have at least a lower second-class UK Bachelor's degree, usually in mathematics or in education, with relevant experience. Professional experience of teaching or tutoring, and the ability to write reports will also be considered as relevant experience.