NEIU Students
If you are interested in improving your math and science skills while increasing your marketability in finding a teaching job after graduation, consider the Math & Science Concepts minor (also known as MSTQE). To speak with an advisor about an individualized course plan to fulfill requirements of the MSTQE minor, contact mstqe@neiu.edu. Students pursuing a B.A. in Elementary, Middle Level, or other education major, please contact the Goodwin College of Education (GCOE) Undergraduate Advisor that corresponds with your major for further support with General Education and GCOE requirements.
The MSTQE program emphasizes observation, mathematical reasoning, scientific inquiry, technology, collaborative group work, connections to real-world problems, and service learning. The courses in the program focus on both content knowledge and pedagogy.
The MSTQE program fully embraces diversity as a valuable resource, strength, and asset. Students are encouraged to voice their opinions, suggestions, and perspectives for strengthening and improving the program. The program is inclusive and respectful, which allows us to create equity in our learning experiences and teaching practices by developing leadership skills at all levels. Students finish the program highly qualified to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion as future teachers of math, science, and technology. The MSTQE program utilizes culturally relevant pedagogy and incorporates issues of equity and social justice into coursework.
MSTQE Eligibility
- Students may demonstrate that they are eligible to begin MSTQE coursework by completing and with a grade of C or better. Recommendations and referrals from math instructors will also be considered.
- Students must be eligible to take (or have completed) or have a recommendation from an English instructor.
- Students complete an advising appointment with the MSTQE Program director and commit to participate in all program requirements.
Please contact the MSTQE Program Advisor at mstqe@neiu.edu for the most up-to-date information.
General MSTQE Academic Plan
It is beneficial to take course pairs in the following order when possible:
| Course Pair I | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Geometry Concepts for Educators And Art | 4 | |
| Physics Concepts for Educators | 4 | |
| Total Hours | 8 | |
| Course Pair II | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry Concepts for Educators | 4 | |
| Computer Science for All | 3 | |
| Total Hours | 7 | |
| Course Pair III | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra Concepts for Educators | 4 | |
| Introduction To Biology for Educators | 4 | |
| Total Hours | 8 | |
| Course Pair IV | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Calculus Concepts for Educators | 3 | |
| Ecology Concepts for Educators | 3 | |
| Total Hours | 6 | |
| Capstone Course | Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Concepts In Discrete Mathematics for Educators | 3 | |
| Total Hours | 3 | |