• Math 113: Mathematics for Elementary Teachers 1
• Math 114: Mathematics for Elementary Teachers 2
• Math 131: Calculus 1
• Math 132: Calculus 2 
• Math 235: Introduction to Linear Algebra  
• Math 455 (or equivalent): Introduction to Discrete Structures*
• Math 456 (optional): Mathematical Modeling*
• Math 475: History of Mathematics
• Educ 497TM (optional but strongly recommended): Teaching Mathematics in Grades 4-12 
• Educ 511: The Principles and Methods of Teaching Middle and High School Mathematics**
• Educ 651: Teaching Mathematical Problem Solving
• Educ 697SM or Stat 501: Statistics and Modeling in the Secondary Curriculum OR Methods of Applied Statistics
• Educ 711: Recent Developments in Secondary Mathematics** 

*These courses require Math 300 as a pre-requisite. It is possible to take a Discrete Mathematics course beyond UMass to complete this requirement. Such a course would address discrete topics such as graph theory, induction and recursion, pigeonhole principle, voting methods, etc.

**These two courses are typically taken during the final practicum year of the program.

• Math 131: Calculus 1
• Math 132: Calculus 2
• Math 235: Introduction to Linear Algebra
• Math 300: Fundamental Concepts of Mathematics
• Math 331 or Math 456: Mathematical Modeling
• Math 411 or Math 490A: Introduction to Abstract Algebra
• Math 455: Introduction to Discrete Structures
• Math 461: Geometry
• Math 471 or EDUC 651: Theory of Numbers or Mathematical Problem Solving
• Math 475: History of Mathematics
• Stat 501: Methods of Applied Statistics
• Stat 515: Statistics I
• Educ 497TM (optional but strongly recommended): Teaching Mathematics in Grades 4-12
• Educ 651 (optional but strongly recommended): Teaching Mathematical Problem Solving
• Educ 697SM (optional but strongly recommended): Statistics and Modeling in the Secondary Curriculum
• Educ 511: The Principles and Methods of Teaching Middle and High School Mathematics*
• Educ 711: Recent Developments in Secondary Mathematics*

*These two courses are typically taken during the final practicum year of the licensure program.

Subject matter knowledge in Mathematics at the 8-12 level for Initial Licensure can be demonstrated by successful completion of appropriate course work and by passing the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) in Mathematics at the 8-12 level. Normally the coursework requirements can be met with a major in Mathematics.

At these meetings, participants are introduced to the mission of the Secondary Teacher Education Program (STEP) and learn about the various licenses and pathways UMass Amherst offers toward initial licensure. 

Submit an application by the deadline for either the undergraduate and graduate pathways (January 15) 
●     For applications to the Undergraduate UTS program
●     For applications to the UMass Graduate School

In February, Faculty review applications using the following criteria 

• A well developed and carefully written personal statement of approximately 500 words. This statement should make clear why you are interested in entering the teaching profession and what you hope to accomplish in the future as a teacher in your chosen subject. Keep in mind that we are interested in hearing why you are interested in coming to UMass and why a particular pathway fits with your professional goals. 
• Experience working with diverse youth during one’s undergraduate experience (e.g., extra-curricular activities, volunteering in schools, tutoring, summer work experience). 
• Evidence of leadership and a commitment to issues of equity based on a review of the applicant’s transcript, resume, writing sample, and personal statement.
• Subject Matter Knowledge based on a review of the applicants’ transcript and subject matter form. This review is significant in determining if you are eligible for the one-year pathways (e.g., Bridges to the Future, 180 Days in Springfield). 
• A minimum GPA of a 3.0 
• Passing the Communication and Literacy Skills (01) and Subject Matter Tests  English (07) portions of the Massachusetts Test of Educator Licensure (MTEL). In order to be licensed in Massachusetts all teachers must have passed both the Communication and Literacy Test, as well as their Subject matter test. In order to progress successfully through the program, we encourage all candidates to take these tests as early as possible.  The Communication and Literacy test should be successfully completed by the start of your pre-practicum semester.  The Subject matter test must be completed prior to your student teaching practicum. 

Each Program/Pathway has a rigorous and intentional process for interviewing all candidates. The Program Coordinators will send you information about the interview process. Please note - Bridges to the Future and TEACH 180 Days in Springfield require an admissions committee interview as well as a school district interview.  

Please approach these interviews in a professional manner. Come prepared to discuss your application materials and future plans in the same way you would if you were interviewing for a teaching position. with a school district (e.g., subject matter knowledge form, resume, and personal statement)

University to Schools candidates will be notified in March if they have been accepted into their program.  The UTS Program Coordinator will then contact you to start the placement process in one of our partner school districts.  This could include visiting a range of schools and interviewing with potential mentor teachers.  
 
Bridges to the Future and 180 Days in Springfield will be interviewed by the University Admissions Committee (as per step 4 above) and if appropriate, will be invited to a School District Interview with participating Schools in early March. Once the school district interviews are complete applicants will be notified to continue with their process. These applicants will meet with teachers in the districts and solidify a potential placement. Candidates will be notified once this process is complete (typically usually mid to late April).

The UTS pathway allows flexibility to students who need to work full or part-time. UTS also provides the opportunity for para-educators to enroll in the program and continue to work at their school - if your school district agrees. Bridges to the Future and 180 Days in Springfield require full-time study. 

• Take courses that have a service learning component.
• Look for summer employment at a camp or youth organization.
• Look for opportunities to volunteer.

Yes. The UTS pathway is designed for teachers already employed, but seeking a Master’s degree and state license.
 

Yes, but you will mostly likely only be eligible for the University to Schools Pathway, not the one-year immersion pathways. However, it is important to meet with the program coordinator so that they can guide you through the Subject Matter Knowledge requirements - in case your major is a good fit. You can also complete these requirements at a community college, another college, or online. 

Having access to a car will give you more flexibility in finding a placement that is a match for you. Otherwise, you will need to rely on public transportation and may have fewer options for placement. 

This program is not designed as a fully online program. However, we are taking into account disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In Fall 2020, we have adapted as needed to support students who cannot be present to engage in studies. There will be the availability of remote courses and we are planning for several different outcomes whether on-campus or off-campus going forward. 

• Join student organizations with a social justice mission.
• Take courses that have a service learning component.
• Look for summer employment at a camp or youth organization.
• Look for opportunities to volunteer.