Mathematics Education, Secondary

At OBU, our Mathematics Education degree offers an exceptional education that combines the strength of one of the most influential majors with the personal attention of small class sizes. If you dream of becoming an education professional, our math education program will thoroughly equip you to inspire the next generation of students in STEM fields. From delving into the fascinating history of mathematics to exploring topics like differential equations, linear algebra, and statistics, our program will nurture your passion for systematic thinking and set you on a path to making a meaningful difference in the world through the language of numbers.

Hannah DeMoss

Class of 2024

"OBU’s Secondary Math Education program has not only prepared me academically but also spiritually so that I may be a future shaper in the sphere of education. In both my math and education courses, my professors have modeled and taught me what it looks like to use one’s vocation as a platform for the gospel.”

Benefits of OBU Mathematics Education, Secondary Program

Graduate Success 

Our secondary mathematics education graduates consistently rank in the top tier with a 100% passing rate on their certification exams. These new educators teach in public, private, or classical high schools across the state, the nation, and - in some cases - the globe. As they grow in their profession, some of our graduates pursue opportunities in business, school administration, and higher education. Many secondary mathematics education graduates continue on to graduate school to attain their master’s or doctorate degree.

Exceptional Faculty

The OBU mathematics faculty is comprised of four full-time professors, each holding doctorate degrees which is a high ratio for a small Christian liberal arts university. They are focused on teaching and student success. At least 95% of all the courses are taught by these full-time faculty members, not adjuncts, offering you individualized training and mentoring. Our small class size, with 25 or fewer students in lower-level courses, and an average of ten students in the upper-level math courses, ensures you are receiving quality, intentional and personal instruction.

Professional Development

OBU mathematics students are invited to attend a regional math conference each year where they are inspired in their leadership and academic abilities through workshops and sessions. Historically, OBU faculty have been featured session speakers and a host of students compete in mathematics competitions. Through varied events such as this, you can build a supportive, professional network that will benefit your future endeavors.

Incredible Education, Affordable Cost.

OBU provides a minimum $10,000 per year scholarship to every incoming first-time freshman and $8,000 to every incoming transfer student. And you could qualify for even more financial aid! Many of our students also receive money through federal Pell grants and OBU Bison Grants.

To get an estimate of what your cost to attend OBU might be, please check out our Net Price Calculator. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how affordable an OBU education really is. Especially considering the incredible academic quality, personal mentor relationships with faculty and staff, and strong Christian commitment you will experience at OBU. You won’t find an experience like this anywhere else!

Program Information

Math Club

As a mathematics student, you can enjoy participation in OBU’s active student Math Club. The organization offers professional growth through relevant topics related to students’ success. Collaboration with fellow students and faculty, and networking with guests from industry are key factors that offer students satisfaction and growth. Discussions on advancements in technology, job forecasts for the future, and academic excellence are highlighted. Involvement in OBU’s Math Club also offers you key avenues for social connections and personal growth.

Teacher Education Organizations

Students are invited to participate in professional teacher education organizations, such as the Student Council for Exceptional Children (SCEC) and Student Professional Oklahoma Educators (SPOE), which enables them to network with other preservice and in-service educators across the state and nation. Students are also invited to travel to state and national conferences which offer professional development related to innovative, researched-based practices within the field of education.

Faith Integration

The mathematics program is taught from a Christian worldview. It is Christ-centered and scientifically sound. It seeks truth through the integration of faith and knowledge, thereby cultivating a deep appreciation and sense of responsibility for creation. OBU math professors serve as personal mentors, supporting both your intellectual and spiritual development, and instill a solid foundation of faith and biblical perspective through their instruction and personal lives.

Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Scholarship and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Emphasis

OBU hosts an OBU STEM Day, annually showcasing the many majors on campus that incorporate STEM skills. Students and faculty provide live demonstrations and instruction in various labs and classrooms using diverse equipment for the benefit of all who attend. As a supporter of STEM careers, OBU has entered an agreement with Project Lead the Way to begin the fall semester of 2024. Through this agreement, OBU will offer an annual $1,000 scholarship to students who have completed at least two PLTW courses during their high school years. This applies to PLTW students who enroll in any area of study at OBU.

National Accreditation

The School of Education is nationally accredited through CAEP, the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation. In addition, each licensure area is accredited through the state of Oklahoma. Graduates from our program are eligible to teach locally, nationally and internationally.

The courses within the education program focus on learning the content, knowledge, and dispositions of an effective educator through hands-on and engaging instruction, alongside practical field experiences in the public school classroom. OBU’s teacher education program partners with districts all over the state, nation and world.  

Field Experiences

One of the many noted strengths of becoming an educator through OBU is the amount of field experience/practicum time that is provided across the four years of the degree program. You will be asked to complete between 85 –120 hours of observation and practicum experiences in local schools prior to student teaching. Field experiences allow you to tutor children, teach small groups and whole classes and practice differentiation and classroom management. Unique to OBU and a student favorite is the creation of an Interactive Children’s Museum over a topic of history and a fun-filled science discovery STEM day with hands-on learning for children.  

Internship Opportunities

Field experiences culminate in a 14-week internship of student teaching during your senior year. Efforts are made to pair you with your school of preference within 50 miles of OBU.U.

Job Opportunities and Outcomes

Our OBU graduates in secondary math education are teaching all over the state of Oklahoma and in other states. Graduates receive jobs in both public and private educational settings, and many continue on to graduate school to attain their master’s or doctorate degree.

Program Options

Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE)

World-Class Faculty

OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.

Dr. Elizabeth Justice

Dr. Elizabeth Justice

Chair, School of Education
Lawrence C. and Marion Harris Chair of Education
Associate Professor of Education
Co-Director, ACCESS Program

Dr. Cherith Tucker

Dr. Cherith Tucker

Chair of Mathematics
Associate Professor of Mathematics

Dr. Jeanne Akin

Dr. Jeanne Akin

Mary A. White Professor of Education

Annie Keehn

Annie Keehn

Assistant Professor of Education
Co-Director, ACCESS Program

Dr. Nathan Drake

Dr. Nathan Drake

Associate Professor of Mathematics

Dr. Krista B. Hands

Dr. Krista B. Hands

Professor of Mathematics

Dr. Sarah Marsh

Dr. Sarah Marsh

Professor of Mathematics

Become a Future Shaper