School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Become a Maths Teacher
Maths Teaching
- Maths and science teachers are currently in short supply.
- Mathematics and Statistics occupy a central position in the school curriculum, preparing students for a wide range of courses and careers. Thus maths and statistics teachers have a pivotal role in society.
- Maths combines well with many other subjects as a second teaching method.
- Maths teachers are kept at the forefront in the use of technology, which makes them sought after for many positions, both inside and outside schools.
The Integrated Approach - Four Year Double Degree
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Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Science Education
VTAC code 22011
This new course will provide an innovative integrated approach to the training of maths and science teachers. Education subjects will be studied at all year levels of the course and will be integrated with maths and science studies. The final year will contain practical teacher placement, leading to accreditation by the State Department of Education Employment and Training.
Application is made via VTAC (VTAC Code 22011).
The Flexible Option - Three year Degree followed by a One year Diploma
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Bachelor of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, and Graduate Diploma of Education
VTAC code 93211 and 21221
This traditional approach to teacher preparation provides the flexibility to keep open a wide range of career options, in addition to teaching. In the first three years mathematics and statistics can be studied on their own or combined with a wide variety of co-majors. The final DipEd year incudes educational theory, teaching methods subjects and practical placements.
Application is made via VTAC for the Graduate Diploma of Education (VTAC code 93211) and the BMathStatSc (VTAC code 21221).
Strengths of the Program
- La Trobe’s Departments of Mathematics and Statistical Science has established a unique approach to its teaching, based on active problem solving sessions. Students find that this approach, which was singled out for praise in a government review of maths and science teacher education, increases their confidence and builds their understanding.
- Staff make themselves readily available to assist students and are constantly updating teaching approaches and content.
- The latest mathematical and statistical software is used, including graphics calculators and computer algebra systems, which are playing an increasingly prominent role in school mathematics.
- Integration of material related to the language and learning of mathematics and science within the double degree in science and science education.
Teaching as a Career
- Teachers are kept in regular contact with the energy and enthusiasm of young people and have the opportunity to support them both within formal teaching programs and in extracurricular activities.
- Annual leave for teachers is well above that in most other professions.
- Teachers are often able to live close to their workplace.
- Maths teaching involves life long learning with opportunities for professional development, including participation in activities organised by the Mathematical Association of Victoria.
- A large number of teachers retirements are expected within the next decade, leading to opportunities for junior staff to assume positions of responsibility.
Entry requirements
Both the BSc / BSc Ed and the BMathStatSc/Dip Ed, require a study score of 20 in English and either a study score of 25 in Mathematical Methods or a study score of 20 in Specialist Mathematics.
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