I have a friend who is looking to upgrade her degree in order to teach math K-8. Anyone know any schools off-hand? I told her about WGU and Rodp.org but I have little experience in this area.
Chadron State College offers some distance graduate education degrees specializing in elementary math education.
First she should check her state regulations. Some states, like Virginia, have Elementary, which is K-5, and then Secondary, which is 6-12. In Virginia, you don't get "elementary math" certified. You just get elementary certified. If there is a specific math certification, the state may also require the individual to obtain specific courses in math to get the license. After you find out the licensure requirements, then you can seek out a program. -Matt
It's not clear what you mean when you say that she wants to "upgrade her degree." She has a Math degree but no teaching cert? or she doesn't have enough Math credits to qualify as a Math teacher? If it's the former then she probably just needs some Education credits and then maybe a student teaching gig. Also, most states have an "alternative routes to teacher certification" section on the state ed dept website. She should definitely look at that because it can truly be a shortcut for many people. If it's the latter and she just needs some Math credits then she should check out LSU as they offer waycheap Math courses. Also, she could check out the Math degree completion program at the University of Illinois-Springfield. She could earn a Math degree in addition to whatever she has now.
If she wanted to save time, some states allow you to simply take the praxis II in a subject area to gain its certification IF you are already certified in an area. -Matt
Depending on the state, you can simply take the state exam, usually but not always a Praxis test. WGU offers a MA in math for those who are already certified.
