Introduction

The Math and Science Concepts minor (MSTQE) is designed for undergraduate students interested in developing deep and broad-based literacy in math, physical and life sciences and technology.

MSTQE is a consortium program in which faculty and students from Wright College, Truman College and Northeastern Illinois University teach and study together. The goal of the consortium is to build community connections and create a pipeline of diverse teachers who will connect to and engage students in achieving STEM (science, technology, engineering, math).

An important feature of the program is that the math and science courses are taught as pairs with content and instruction that is linked and interdisciplinary. The integrated math and science course pairs provide students with opportunities to interact with professors and classmates to investigate and co-construct knowledge. All of the courses provide students with the opportunity to think about how the math and science content they are studying could be used to make the teaching and learning of math and science as future educators both engaging and effective.

Program Benefits

In the Math and Science Concepts minor, you can:

  • be part of a small cohort of students,
  • participate in meaningful service learning and civic engagement opportunities as a way to integrate teaching of the content,
  • work directly with middle level teachers and students through Master Teacher partnerships,
  • be part of team with supportive faculty, tutors, and advisors,
  • receive early field experience and opportunities to connect content with actual classroom practices and instruction,
  • be involved in opportunities to support and mentor, problem solve and discuss topics related to future careers as classroom teachers through advisory seminars and guided inquiry learning.

Career Options

The Math and Science Concepts minor is designed for undergraduate students interested in developing deep and broad based literacy in math, physical and life sciences, and technology.  

Students majoring in Elementary Education or Middle Level Education will earn a content minor in Math and Science Concepts (MSTQE). Middle Level Education students will also receive an endorsement from the State of Illinois in Mathematics and Science (with the option of adding Social Studies and Language Arts).

Most students in the program go on to major in education and many elect to become teachers of math and general science. Others go on to teach in informal education, in museums, libraries, environmental education and other venues.

For more detailed career information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Academic Catalog Information

Take a closer look at the minor in Math and Science Concepts and the courses offered toward the program.

Math and Science Concepts, Minor

Department and Contact Information

If you are interested in the program or have questions, please contact MSTQE at mstqe@neiu.edu or (773) 442-5571.

MSTQE Department Homepage

About Northeastern

Northeastern Illinois University is home to students from all corners of the world and is one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the nation. Our small class sizes, flexible schedules and dedicated faculty can help you succeed in your studies.

We offer an education with value.

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