Teaching Scholarships for Math Majors

Fellowship programs train high-quality math teachers.

Quality math teachers are in high demand in schools throughout the United States. Some scholarships encourage math majors to consider becoming math educators, or encourage math professionals working in a math-related field to change careers and teach. Most such scholarship programs are open to individuals who wish to teach mathematics at the secondary level, and, in addition to the scholarships, offer candidates the training and support necessary to ensure their success as teachers.

Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program

Those who hold a degree in mathematics or currently work in a math or science field and would likde to transition to teaching can apply for a scholarship through the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship program, sponsored by the National Science Foundation. The program works with colleges and universities to provide scholarships that cover the cost of earning teacher credentials or a master's degree in teaching. Individuals who participate in the program must teach for at least four years in a high-need school. In addition to a scholarship to cover tuition and fees, participants receive a salary supplement during their four-year teaching requirement.

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

For college students interested in teaching math for grades seven through 12, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics offers prospective course work scholarships. The Prospective Middle School Mathematics Teacher Course Work Scholarship provides up to $3,000 for juniors in college who want to teach math at the middle school level. The Prospective 7-12 Secondary Teacher Scholarship awards one college sophomore a $10,000 scholarship to cover the cost of course work related to becoming a certified secondary math teacher. Each scholarship requires an application form, three letters of recommendation, and an essay explaining why the applicant wants to pursue a career as a math teacher.

Knowles Science Teaching Foundation

Individuals who hold degrees in mathematics or science can apply for a Knowles Science Teaching Foundation Fellowship. Applicants must apply for the fellowship within five years of receiving a bachelor's degree, and must make a five-year commitment to the fellowship program. While completing a teacher education program, fellows receive $10,000 in tuition assistance and a monthly stipend. Once fellows obtain a full-time teaching position, they must participate in summer professional development activities and complete a regular portfolio for the program. Teachers also have the opportunity to apply for grants to offset the cost of classroom resources and supplies.

Math for America Fellowship

Math for America is a fellowship program committed to improving mathematics education throughout the United States, and is for anyone with a mathematics degree. Those accepted into the program receive a full-tuition scholarship good towards obtaining a master's degree in mathematics education, and over $100,000 in stipends while fulfilling the program's teaching requirements. Participants must make a five-year commitment to the program, which includes one year in an intensive master's degree program and four years of teaching. Individuals earn a regular teaching salary in addition to the program's stipends during their four years of teaching.

Alternate Routes to Certification

Many states offer alternate routes to certification for those who wish to teach mathematics with just a math degree instead of formal training in education. Individuals who seek the alternate route to certification are typically awarded a temporary teaching certificate when hired by a school district. While completing their first years of teaching, they take teacher education courses through special classes and workshops provided by the district or the state's department of education. Scholarships and grants cover the cost of the alternate certification courses, making them free for people who choose this route.

References

• National Science Foundation: Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics: Grants and Awards
• Math for America: About MfA Fellows
• U.S. Department of Education: Innovations in Education: Alternative Routes to Teacher Certification
• Knowles Science Teaching Foundation