math education phd

Mathematics Education PhD

Doctor of philosophy.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree emphasizes research competencies. The degree requires a scholarly dissertation of intellectual merit and sound research methodology. Dissertation research may include analytical studies of the process of teaching or experimental studies of the teaching-learning process, including studies of verbal learning and laboratory practice or historical studies.

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2025, Summer 2025, and Fall 2025 terms.

• Points/Credits: 75
• Entry Terms: Spring, Summer, Fall
• Enrollment Formats: Full-Time, Part-Time

Application Deadlines

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines , such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

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Doctoral Degrees

All candidates for the Ed.D., Ed.D.C.T., or Ph.D. degrees are expected to demonstrate both mathematics and mathematics education competencies through a series of certification examinations taken upon the completion of 60 graduate points. Certification examinations test the student’s knowledge of current research and theory in mathematics education and mathematics content. Examinations are offered once in the fall, spring, and summer terms. Courses recommended as preparation for the examinations in mathematics education include MSTM 6037,  MSTM 4019, and other mathematics education courses; Courses recommended as preparation for the examinations in mathematics are 6000- level mathematics content courses.

Students must demonstrate acceptable proficiency in at least three of the following six mathematics content areas: algebra, analysis, discrete mathematics, foundations of mathematics, geometry and topology, and probability and statistics. Students may sit for the examination in mathematics content during the regular certification examination times. Alternatively, they may register for advanced content courses and, with permission of the program, sit for the content area certification examination upon completion of the course. Incoming doctoral candidates should register for MSTM 6037 Professional Seminar in Mathematics during the first year of doctoral studies.

Doctoral students whose dissertations require statistical analysis should include appropriate statistics courses in their programs. These points can be included either in the mathematics/mathematics education requirement or can be taken as research electives.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics Education

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree emphasizes research competencies. The degree program requires a scholarly dissertation of intellectual merit and sound research methodology. Dissertation research may include analytical studies of the process of teaching or experimental studies of the teaching-learning process, including studies of verbal learning and laboratory practice or historical studies.

Candidates are encouraged to develop an association with a faculty member early in their studies to identify a problem area of mutual interest to plan a course of studies that leads to the competencies needed to complete dissertation research and prepare for a professional role. Further details are available in the brochures on doctoral studies and in the general descriptions of doctoral programs available from the Office of Doctoral Studies (ODS).

A program of study for the Doctor of Philosophy degree must include at least 45 points taken under Teachers College registration. In order to permit the acquisition of broad and basic scholarship, each program of study should include at least 60 points in mathematics, mathematics education, statistics, and computing. At least 35 points should be in advanced courses – including research courses (MSTM 6500 or 6501 and MSTM 7500). (Any Teachers College course at the 6000 level or above, any Columbia University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences course with a “G” prefix, any “W” course numbered above 4000, or any transferred course with a graduate-level prerequisite will be considered an advanced course.) Further, 15 points in the philosophical, psychological, and curricular foundations of education must be included in every Ph.D. degree program. Students whose dissertations require statistical analysis should include appropriate statistics courses in their programs. These points can be included either in the mathematics/mathematics education requirement or can be taken as research electives.

Candidates for the Ph.D. degree are required to demonstrate competency in two languages chosen from among French, German, and Russian. Students who require other languages for the preparation of their dissertation may petition the program to request one substitution. Students in mathematics may not use computer languages or statistics to satisfy the language requirement.

The Ph.D. dissertation is a scholarly study contributing new theoretical knowledge to the field and should be planned early in the program when sufficient advanced courses have been completed to permit the candidate to enroll in relevant research courses. Ph.D. dissertations in mathematics education should be (1) experimental studies in learning, (2) analytical studies in policy theory in mathematics education, or (3) other scholarly investigations of problems and issues of broad significance in the field.

The website of the Program offers a list of Topic study groups which doctoral students are recommended to join.

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Program Director : Professor Alexander Karp

Teachers College, Columbia University 323 Thompson

Phone: (212) 678-3381 Fax: (212) 678-8319

Email: tcmath@tc.edu

• Mathematics Education

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Advance Your Career

The Ph.D. program emphasizes research and requires a written dissertation for completion. The program is individualized to meet the needs of graduate students. The student must develop, with the guidance from the major professor and committee, a program that is applicable to their background and interest. The average Ph.D. program requires 4-6 years beyond a master’s degree. The program is comprised of coursework in four major areas.

• Mathematics or a related area
• Cognate Area
• Research Core

This residential program has rolling admission . Applications must be fully complete and submitted (including all required materials) and all application fees paid prior to the deadline in order for applications to be considered and reviewed. For a list of all required materials for this program application, please see the “ Admissions ” tab.

July 1 is the deadline for Fall applications.

November 15 is the deadline for Spring applications.

March 15 is the deadline for Summer applications.

*Those applicants interested in being considered for any available PhD funding should submit completed applications by December 1 for the following Fall semester.

Program at a Glance

• Major/Department: Curriculum and Instruction
• Research Area: Mathematics Education
• Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Program Delivery: Residential
• Does this program lead to licensure? * No , this is a non-licensure program
• Application Deadlines: July 1 (Fall), November 15 (Spring), March 15 (Summer)

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Mathematics Education Courses

15-18 credit hours

In mathematics education, students engage in courses that cover topics in the cognitive and cultural theories of learning and teaching mathematics, and the role of curriculum in mathematics education.

A three (3) course sequence is required that consists of:

• EDCI 63500 – Goals and Content in Mathematics Education
• EDCI 63600 – The Learning of Mathematics: Insights and Issues
• EDCI 63700 – The Teaching of Mathematics: Insights and Issues

In addition, students are encouraged to take (6 – 9) hours of EDCI 620: Developing as a Mathematics Education Researcher

Related Course Work

Minimum of 6 credit hours

All students should have appropriate course work in mathematics, statistics, educational technology, or a related field. Students without a master’s level background in mathematics may be required to take more courses in mathematics. This will be determined by the student’s major professor and advisory committee.

9 credit hours

Students will take three graduate courses in a self-selected cognate area. Cognate area selection should be discussed with the student’s major professor and advisory committee. Possible cognate areas include: mathematics, psychology, philosophy, sociology, technology.

Research Core Courses

15 credit hours

All doctoral students in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction must complete five (5) courses from areas in research methodology and analysis before beginning their dissertation:

• EDPS 53300 – Introduction to Research in Education
• EDCI 61500 – Qualitative Research Methods in Education
• STAT 51100 – Statistical Methods OR EDPS 55600 – Introduction to Quantitative Data Analysis
• EDPS 63000 – Research Procedures in Education
• Advance electives in either quantitative or qualitative methods

In addition to a submitted application (and any applicable application fees paid), the following materials are required for admission consideration, and all completed materials must be submitted by the application deadline in order for an application to be considered complete and forwarded on to faculty and the Purdue Graduate School for review.

A completed master’s degree is required prior to admission.

Application Requirements

Here are the materials required for this application

• Transcripts (from all universities attended)
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• 3 Recommendations
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• Writing Sample
• International Applicants must meet English Proficiency Requirements set by the Purdue Graduate School

We encourage prospective students to submit an application early, even if not all required materials are uploaded. Applications are not forwarded on for faculty review until all required materials are uploaded.

How to Apply

When submitting your application for this program, please select the following options:

• Select a Campus: Purdue West Lafayette (PWL)
• Select your proposed graduate major: Curriculum and Instruction
• Please select an Area of Interest: Mathematics Education
• Please select a Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Primary Course Delivery: Residential

This program does not lead to licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere. Contact the College of Education Office of Teacher Education and Licensure (OTEL) at [email protected] before continuing with program application if you have questions regarding licensure or contact your state Department of Education about how this program may translate to licensure in your state of residence.

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Science & Mathematics Education PhD

The Graduate Group in Science and Mathematics Education (known informally as SESAME) offers an interdisciplinary graduate program leading to a doctoral degree in science, mathematics, technology, and engineering education. The program is designed to give graduates advanced expertise in a STEM discipline as well as in educational theory and research methodologies.

This Graduate Group was established so individuals with training or experience in a mathematical, scientific, or technical discipline can pursue advanced studies focused on educational issues in these disciplines. SESAME produces scholars who can communicate effectively with scientists, mathematicians, and engineers as well as with educational researchers and practitioners. SESAME students are expected to attain a level of expertise equivalent to that of a Master's student in their chosen discipline.

Thesis work typically consists of basic research on learning or cognition in a STEM field or the development of improved pedagogical approaches based on relevant models and research. Upon satisfactory completion of their studies and thesis work, students will obtain the degree of Ph.D. in Science and Mathematics Education.

SESAME also offers a Learning Sciences Certificate in Instructional Design, Learning Technologies, and Education Research .

Contact Info

[email protected]

2121 Berkeley Way, 4th Floor

Berkeley, CA 94720

At a Glance

Department(s)

Science & Math Education Graduate Group

Admit Term(s)

Application Deadline

December 3, 2024

Degree Type(s)

Doctoral / PhD

Degree Awarded

GRE Requirements

Search NYU Steinhardt

Mathematics Education

Phd in teaching and learning concentration.

Prepare to conduct mathematics education research at the elementary, secondary, and postsecondary level.   You will work closely with faculty on all aspects of the research process, including designing a research proposal, honing your methodology, implementing a research agenda, and disseminating findings.

What You'll Learn

• Strategies for designing and analyzing research studies in mathematics education
• Qualitative and quantitative research methods 
• Current issues in mathematics pedagogy, teacher education, curriculum, and integration of educational technology 

How You'll Learn

Pedagogy and content courses.

As a student in this doctoral program, you will take a series of courses focused on issues of teaching and learning and complete mathematics courses appropriate to the level of interest (elementary, secondary, post-secondary) in your research. If you're interested in doing work at the secondary or above level, you will take mathematics courses in the mathematics department.

Research Methods Courses

Take courses designed to prepare you for all aspects of the research process. You will gain mastery of a wide range of qualitative and quantitative research methods in mathematics education, then work closely with faculty members to develop your own research interests and a research proposal. 

Exceptional Faculty Resources

Mathematics Education faculty work closely with College of Arts and Sciences faculty in NYU's  Courant Institute for Mathematical Sciences . These collaborations provide you with opportunities to draw on content knowledge and pedagogical expertise from a diverse range of sources.

You'll graduate prepared to work as a researcher or teacher educator in mathematics education in colleges and universities. You'll also have the skills needed to excel as a mathematics education specialist or consultant in government organizations and multinational corporations.

Jasmine Y. Ma

Associate professor.

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Mathematics Education, Ph.D.

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The doctoral degree in Mathematics Education prepares graduates to engage deeply in the research and practice of mathematics and STEM education and become leaders and advocates of inclusive, antiracist, and equitable mathematics learning.

This program, a partnership between the School of Education and Department of Mathematics , provides students with direct mentorship from mathematics education faculty as well as faculty in the areas of education and mathematics. Faculty are actively engaged in research around the teaching and learning of mathematics, and students are encouraged to work closely with faculty members on their research.

Suggested Application Deadline: January 15 or October 1 | More admissions information

Mathematics Education develops a community of scholars among faculty and students. We generally have around 10 doctoral students at various stages in the program from across the country and around the world; typically, half are international students. A weekly research seminar is held to connect all faculty and students.

Expertise in teaching and instruction is also developed through graduate assistantship and intern opportunities, and with participation in the Future Professoriate Program . This includes orientations, year-round services for teaching assistants, and opportunities to co-teach with fellow doctoral students and department faculty, guest lecture, and independent instruction. Students have many opportunities for pedagogical development and feedback through teaching and tutoring.

This program prepares students with strong mathematical interests and experiences for roles in research on the teaching and learning of mathematics, teacher preparation and professional development, and teaching mathematics and mathematics education courses.

Program Contacts

Mathematics Education (PhD)

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Mathematics Education (PhD) – STEM Designated Degree Program

Montclair State University’s PhD program in Mathematics Education is designed for students with strong backgrounds and experiences in both mathematics and mathematics education. The program prepares students to make contributions to research and practice in the field through careers including mathematics education researchers, teacher educators, leaders in school districts and educational agencies, mathematics program designers and curriculum developers, and research-driven teachers and school leaders.

Students enter the program with a variety of curricular, pedagogical, psychological, and philosophical experiences and interests related to mathematics education. While enrolled in the program, they become immersed in research, work with faculty and other students on projects, develop and carry out their own projects, and network with other members of the mathematics education research community. And as they do these things, they complete coursework focused on research in mathematics teaching, learning, and curriculum that prepares them for these scholarly activities. As many of our students have experience teaching mathematics at the elementary, secondary, and college levels, their research has the benefit of being grounded in, and applicable to, practice.

All classes are offered on campus in the evenings between 3:45 pm and 8:00 pm. Full-time students take 3 courses each Fall and Spring semester and tend to complete the program in about 5 years; part-time students take 1 or 2 courses per semester and tend to complete the program in 7 years. Some courses are also offered in the summer. 

The  Montclair State University Westerdahl Fellowships for Doctoral Studies in Mathematics Education  provides full tuition and a stipend of $25,000 per year, renewable for up to four years.

Along with the PhD in Mathematics Education, the Mathematics Department also offers the following options for graduate study:   Mathematics (MS)  and  Mathematics (MS) with a concentration in Mathematics Education .

Please refer to our  programs of study  page for a comprehensive list of all of the graduate programs offered within the university.

The Office of Graduate Admissions requires the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree in order to be eligible to apply for a graduate program. Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants  page to review the U.S. degree equivalency information.

In order to make applying for graduate school as seamless as possible for you, we have created an application checklist. This checklist can be a reference point for you during the application process to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the steps needed to apply, as well as all corresponding supplemental materials for your specific program of interest.

• Application Deadline: April 1st (for Fall admission). November 1 (for Spring Admission). Please note: Upon offer of admission, you will be asked to submit an enrollment deposit of $200.
• Submit Online Application: Please create your online account and submit your application by following the general application instructions and pay (or waive) the non-refundable $60 application fee. Once this step has been completed, the online portal will allow you to upload your supplemental materials.

The following is a list of the supplemental materials that will accompany your application for the Mathematics Education (PhD) program:

• Transcript: One from every college attended.
• General Statement of Purpose: The Statement of Purpose provides you an opportunity to give evidence of your unique talents and experiences as an applicant to doctoral study at Montclair State University. In preparing your statement, please keep in mind that the Admissions Committee is seeking evidence of your ability to communicate clearly and professionally. Please include your reasons for pursuing doctoral studies by referring to relevant personal, academic and work experiences. Please also outline your future plans and any other information that may be of interest to the Admissions Committee.
• General Statement of Research/Inquiry: The Statement of Research/Inquiry provides you an opportunity to inform the Admissions Committee of your thoughts, ideas and areas of interest that may lead to dissertation research. In preparing your statement, please keep in mind that the Admissions Committee is seeking evidence of your ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
• Resume: Required.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three.
• Standardized Test Scores: GRE Not Required. Applicants have the option of submitting GRE scores. Any applicant voluntarily choosing to do so should select Montclair State University as the receiving institution on their score report.
• Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the  International Applicants page  to review the US degree equivalency information.

This program is 67 semester hours. For more information, please visit  the Mathematics Education (PhD) program listing in the University Catalog.

If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please email or call us: Office of Graduate Admissions Email: [email protected] Telephone:  973-655-5147 Fax: 973-655-7869

If you have specific inquiries regarding your program of interest, please contact the Mathematics Education (PhD) Program Coordinator:

Program Coordinator:  Dr. Steven Greenstein Office:  Center for Computing and Information Science 425K Email: [email protected]

*During the summer months, there will be a rotating department chair available to answer your inquiry. Find the updated summer chair for this program .*