phd math education michigan

Advisor: See Mathematics Office, Room 3319, Everett Tower

The Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics Education focuses on mathematics curricula, teaching and learning mathematics, and research and evaluation in mathematics education. Programs may focus on preparation for mathematics education faculty positions in colleges and universities, supervision and curriculum development positions in school systems, or evaluation positions in education-related institutions.

Admission Requirements

Most candidates for admission will have completed a master’s degree in mathematics or mathematics education and have classroom teaching experience. Candidates must have a mathematics background at least equivalent to that provided by the secondary mathematics teaching major at Western Michigan University. Those admitted to the program without prior teaching experience or without course work in teaching and learning will be required to obtain such experiences or courses during their program of study. Admission will be determined by review of the following: a) academic background and transcripts, b) professional experience, c) three letters of recommendation, d) resume, e) written statement of at least 500 words indicating professional goals and purpose for seeking a doctoral degree, f) an interview with the Mathematics Education Faculty (when requested), and g) satisfactory completion of the general admission requirements of the Graduate College.

Program Requirements

This degree program requires a minimum of 80 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Most students work half-time as research or teaching assistants and spend at least two years on campus. Assistantship experience is a significant part of the doctoral program. In addition to teaching assistantships, other opportunities may be available on faculty research grants and projects. Students are expected to satisfy the following program requirements.

1. Complete required course work:

• At least 24 approved graduate credit hours in mathematics and statistics, including at least six courses from this list: general topology (MATH 5220), linear algebra (MATH 5300), analysis (MATH 5700 or 6150), abstract algebra (MATH 6300 or 6160), graph theory (MATH 6400), geometry (MATH 6490), and statistics (STAT 6120 or STAT 6620). The remaining courses are to be selected, in consultation with program advisors, from the 5000- and 6000-level offerings in applied mathematics, pure mathematics, and statistics.
• At least six approved graduate credit hours in research methods including a course in quantitative methods (STAT 6620, PSY 6340, or EMR 6450) and a course in qualitative methods (EMR 6480).
• At least 21 approved graduate credit hours in mathematics education including issues and trends in mathematics education (MATH 6570), psychology of learning mathematics (MATH 6580), research in mathematics education (MATH 6590), and two advanced teaching methods courses (selected from MATH 6510, 6530, 6560, and 6561).
• Additional approved graduate credit hours selected from mathematics, statistics, mathematics education, psychology, and professional education sufficient to meet the minimum program requirements.

2. Pass three comprehensive examinations:

• Mathematics curriculum and instruction
• Psychological foundations and mathematical learning
• Research in mathematics education

3. Acquire competence in three research tools:

Students must demonstrate competence in the use of technological tools for: (1) quantitative research, (2) qualitative research, and (3) student learning.

4. Internship

Complete a Teaching Practicum involving an approved undergraduate course in mathematics or mathematics education approved by the department.

• MATH 7120 - Professional Field Experience Credits: 2 to 12 hours

Complete professional research experiences involving a range of activities related to the scholarly work of mathematics educators.

5. Complete and successfully defend a dissertation in mathematics education

• MATH 7300 - Doctoral Dissertation Credits: 1 to 15 hours
• Upon admission a student will, within the first year of enrollment, work with a two-member advisory committee to design a Plan of Study for completing the Ph.D. At this time, any course requirements already satisfied through prior master’s level work will be determined by the advisory committee. After a tentative Plan of Study has been designed, one of the advisory committee members will be assigned to serve as the student’s advisor for program matters leading up to the formulation of a dissertation proposal. The Plan of Study may be reviewed and adjusted as necessary throughout the program.
• A student will schedule comprehensive examinations in consultation with the program advisor. The examinations in curriculum and in psychology will each be three-hour written examinations. The examination in research and design will be a take-home examination written over a period of one week followed within two weeks of submission by a one-hour oral defense conducted with at least two graduate faculty in mathematics education. If a student fails a comprehensive examination, the student must retake the examination within a year of the first attempt. A student who fails a comprehensive examination twice will be dismissed from the program at the end of the semester when the exam was taken.
• By the time a student has passed comprehensive examinations in curriculum and instruction and in psychological foundations, the student will take reading courses from a potential dissertation advisor with the goal of developing a proposal for dissertation research. Depending upon the nature of the proposed research, the student may be required to conduct a pilot study.
• As soon as a student has passed all three comprehensive exams and shown competency in the three research tools, the student will, in consultation with a chosen dissertation advisor, form a dissertation committee. The chosen dissertation advisor will become the student’s program advisor. The dissertation committee shall consist of the dissertation advisor, a second reader, at least one other faculty member, and a member from outside the department. At a time mutually convenient to the student and the dissertation committee, the student will give an open public presentation of the proposed dissertation research and answer questions on the proposal. A student will be allowed to take MATH 7300 credits only after a dissertation committee has been formed and the dissertation proposal is accepted by all its members.
• After completing a dissertation and all other requirements for the Ph.D., a student will present an open public defense of the dissertation followed by an open question period. The dissertation committee will then meet in private to decide acceptance or rejection of the dissertation and defense. All committee members must agree on acceptance.

Jump to navigation

Search form

The Graduate School

• Faculty/Staff Resources
• Programs of Study Browse the list of MSU Colleges, Departments, and Programs
• Graduate Degree List Graduate degrees offered by Michigan State University
• Research Integrity Guidelines that recognize the rights and responsibilities of researchers
• Online Programs Find all relevant pre-application information for all of MSU’s online and hybrid degree and certificate programs
• Graduate Specializations A subdivision of a major for specialized study which is indicated after the major on official transcripts
• Graduate Certificates Non-degree-granting programs to expand student knowledge and understanding about a key topic
• Interdisciplinary Graduate Study Curricular and co-curricular opportunities for advanced study that crosses disciplinary boundaries
• Theses and Dissertations Doctoral and Plan A document submission process
• Policies and Procedures important documents relating to graduate students, mentoring, research, and teaching
• Academic Programs Catalog Listing of academic programs, policies and related information
• Traveling Scholar Doctoral students pursue studies at other BTAA institutions
• Apply Now Graduate Departments review applicants based on their criteria and recommends admission to the Office of Admissions
• International Applicants Application information specific to international students
• PhD Public Data Ph.D. Program Admissions, Enrollments, Completions, Time to Degree, and Placement Data
• Costs of Graduate School Tools to estimate costs involved with graduate education
• Recruitment Awards Opportunities for departments to utilize recruitment funding
• Readmission When enrollment is interrupted for three or more consecutive terms
• Assistantships More than 3,000 assistantships are available to qualified graduate students
• Fellowships Financial support to pursue graduate studies
• Research Support Find funding for your research
• Travel Funding Find funding to travel and present your research
• External Funding Find funding outside of MSU sources
• Workshops/Events Find opportunities provided by The Graduate School and others
• Research Opportunities and programs for Research at MSU
• Career Development Programs to help you get the career you want
• Graduate Educator Advancement and Teaching Resources, workshops, and development opportunities to advance your preparation in teaching
• Cohort Fellowship Programs Spartans are stronger together!
• The Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society (BGHS) A national network society for students who have traditionally been underrepresented
• Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP) A gateway to graduate education at Big Ten Academic Alliance universities
• Alliances for Graduate Education and the Professoriate (AGEP) A community that supports retention, and graduation of underrepresented doctoral students
• Recruitment and Outreach Ongoing outreach activities by The Graduate School
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Funding Funding resources to recruit diverse students
• Graduate Student Organizations MSU has over 900 registered student organizations
• Grad School Office of Well-Being Collaborates with graduate students in their pursuit of their advanced degree and a well-balanced life
• Housing and Living in MI MSU has an on and off-campus housing site to help find the perfect place to stay
• Mental Health Support MSU has several offices and systems to provide students with the mental health support that they need
• Spouse and Family Resources MSU recognizes that students with families have responsibilities that present challenges unique to this population
• Health Insurance Health insurance info for graduate student assistants and students in general at MSU
• Safety and Security MSU is committed to cultivating a safe and inclusive campus community characterized by a culture of safety and respect
• Why Mentoring Matters To Promote Inclusive Excellence in Graduate Education at MSU
• Guidelines Guidelines and tools intended to foster faculty-graduate student relationships
• Toolkit A set of resources for support units, faculty and graduate students
• Workshops Workshops covering important topics related to mentor professional development
• About the Graduate School We support graduate students in every program at MSU
• Strategic Plan Our Vision, Values, Mission, and Goals
• Social Media Connect with the Graduate School!
• History Advancing Graduate Education at MSU for over 25 years
• Staff Directory
• Driving Directions

Program in Mathematics Education

Link to department website

Link to RCR plan - Date on Plan: 09/19/2016 - Contact Person: Lisa Keller

Link to Graduate Handbook

Program: Mathematics Education Academic Plan: MATHED_PHD Award Type: PHD Phone: 517-432-1490 Email: [email protected] Address: Michigan State University, Wells Hall, 619 Red Cedar Rd, Rm C110, East Lansing, MI 48824

• Call us: (517) 353-3220
• Contact Information
• Privacy Statement
• Site Accessibility
• Call MSU: (517) 355-1855
• Visit: msu.edu
• MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer.
• Notice of Nondiscrimination
• Spartans Will.
• © Michigan State University

Accessibility Tools

Highlight links, change contrast, increase text size, increase letter spacing, readability bar, dyslexia friendly font, increase cursor size, welcome to program in mathematics education.

PRIME hosted the Mathematics and Statistics Associations Summit at MSU in March 2019.

Read more news

Quick Links

Welcome to prime, prospective students.

• About the Program
• Application and Admissions
• Program Requirements

Research Projects

• DBER+ Commons
• ASPIRE in Math
• Collaborative Research
• More Projects

Upcoming Events

• Comps Application for Fall 2023 Due

Graduate Degree

Applied mathematics - doctor of philosophy, college of natural science, department of mathematics, graduate study.

In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Regular admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in applied mathematics presupposes academic preparation equivalent to a Master of Science degree with a major in mathematics with a grade–point average of 3.00 or better.  However, a student with a bachelor's degree whose undergraduate preparation is strong may be admitted directly to the program upon passing a qualifying examination.

Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Applied Mathematics

The student must:

• Pass the qualifying examination.
• Complete at least 30 credits in approved 800–900 level mathematics courses excluding courses taken in preparation for the qualifying examination and Mathematics 999; at least 18 of the 30 credits must be in applied mathematics courses.
• Present at least two seminars acceptable to the faculty.
• Pass the comprehensive examination.
• Demonstrate a reading knowledge of one foreign language, normally from among French, German, and Russian, sufficient to read the mathematical literature written in that language.
• Complete a dissertation in applied mathematics.

For detailed information regarding the qualifying and comprehensive examinations, contact the Department of Mathematics.

Other Links

• Regular Faculty
• Fixed Term/Visiting Faculty
• Specialists and Instructors
• Adjunct Faculty
• Graduate Students
• Teaching Assistants
• Administration
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusiveness
• Faculty Honors
• Faculty Research Interests
• Seminars by Week
• Topology RTG
• Institute of Mathematical Physics
• Math Library
• Phillips Lecture
• Undergraduate Program
• Class Pages
• Student Portal
• Math Learning Center
• Actuarial Science
• Advising Information
• Override Request
• Math Placement Service
• Herzog Competition
• Scholarships
• Exchange Program
• Sample Finals
• Multicultural Center Feasibility
• Apply to the Ph.D. Program
• Graduate Program
• M.S. in Industrial Mathematics
• Math Portal (Info Server)
• SpartanMail
• Travel Authorization
• Visitor Form
• Course Manager
• Seminar Editor
• Instructional Mentoring
• Department Minutes
• Department Bylaws
• RPT-Guidelines
• Important University Policies
• Book a Room

Department of Mathematics Teaching Assistantships

All accepted PhD students will be offered a teaching assistantship for a maximum of six years of study. The stipend in the first year will be $23,740. Click for more information.

Department of Mathematics Teaching Reduction Fellowships

All accepted PhD students will receive this fellowship. The fellowship reduces teaching in the first year to tutoring only. Click for more information.

Application fee waived

The application fee for US citizens with GRE math subject scores in the upper 50 percentile will be waived. Click for more information.

University Distinguished Fellowships and University Enrichment Fellowships

The University awards these fellowships to outstanding PhD applicants. The fellowships cover tuition and health insurance and award a stipend of $28,500 for the first and fifth years with no teaching responsibilities. In other years the student is supported by the department teaching assistantships. Click for more information.

College of Natural Science Doctoral Recruiting Fellowships

The College of Natural Science awards these fellowships to outstanding PhD applicants. The fellowships cover tuition and health insurance and award a stipend of $28,500 for the first year of study with no teaching responsibilities. In other years the student is supported by the department teaching assistantships. Click for more information.

Department of Mathematics Recruiting Fellowships

The Department of Mathematics awards these fellowships to outstanding PhD applicants. The fellowship consists of a departmental teaching assistantship and an addition stipend of $8,000 in the first year of study. Click for more information.

General Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Apply for the 2022-23 graduate program
• Fellowships/Assistantships for 2022-23 PhD Program Applicants

Graduate Student Handbook

• Graduate Student Handbook ( docx )
• Responsible Conduct of Research and Scholarship
• Graduate Student Academic Grievance Hearing Procedures
• Absence Policy for GTAs

Directory of Graduate Courses

• List of Mathematics Courses
• Listing by Research Area

Directory of People in the Department

• Directory of Faculty
• Directory of Faculty, According to Research Area
• Directory of Graduate Students

Doctoral Degrees in Mathematics

• Ph.D. Degree in Mathematics
• Ph.D. Degree in Applied Mathematics
• Dual Ph.D. Degree

The Master's Degree in Mathematics

• Master of Science Degree in Industrial Mathematics
• Master of Science Degree in Mathematics*
• Master of Science Degree with Concentration in Applied Mathematics*
• Master of Arts for Teachers Degree**

* These degrees are open only to students currently enrolled in a PhD program at MSU

** This program is currently being revised.

Apply for the Graduate Program

Department of Mathematics Michigan State University 619 Red Cedar Road C212 Wells Hall East Lansing, MI 48824 Phone: (517) 353-0844 Fax: (517) 432-1562

College of Natural Science

• Undergraduate

_linkedin_partner_id = "1170812"; window._linkedin_data_partner_ids = window._linkedin_data_partner_ids || []; window._linkedin_data_partner_ids.push(_linkedin_partner_id); (function(){var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; var b = document.createElement("script"); b.type = "text/javascript";b.async = true; b.src = "https://snap.licdn.com/li.lms-analytics/insight.min.js"; s.parentNode.insertBefore(b, s);})(); School of Education

Ph.d. in education mathematics education specialization .

Doctoral students in the Mathematics Education specialization work closely and collaboratively with faculty, engaging in research designed to enrich mathematics teaching and improve mathematics learning for all students. A distinctive feature of the specialization area in mathematics education is the integration of teaching and research experiences.

Students in this specialization

• Examine critical issues of mathematics teaching and learning across K-12 and undergraduate levels.
• Teach undergraduate mathematics content and methods courses for prospective K-8 teachers.
• Participate in course instructor groups to study and revise components of these courses.
• Conduct research in your area of interest with the support of internationally-recognized faculty.
• Engage in multiple opportunities to present research in progress and receive feedback from faculty and peers.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Teomara Rutherford

Specialization Coordinators: Dr. Charles Hohensee

Admission Requirements

In addition to the  admission requirement of all applicants to Ph.D. programs in the School of Education, applicants to the program in Mathematics Education are expected to hold a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics or equivalent and/or a Master’s degree in mathematics, mathematics education, or a related field. School teaching experience is preferred. Applicants with special strengths and somewhat different profiles, such as educators who have an interest in further exploring the teaching and learning of mathematics, will also be considered.

Specialization Coursework

In addition to the Doctoral Core Courses, the following specialization courses are required of all Ph.D. students in mathematics education.

• EDUC 833: Research and Theory of Mathematics Learning
• EDUC 834: Research and Theory of Mathematics Teaching
• EDUC 835: Research and Theory of Mathematics Curriculum
• EDUC 836: Research and Theory of Mathematics Teacher Education and School Improvement

Note: the fourth course fits into the curriculum as a course needed for the specialization.

Sample Course Schedules

Sample Mathematics Education course schedules for students who enter the Ph.D. program in the following semesters are available through the links below.

• Students entering in the Fall of odd years
• Students entering in the Fall of even years

Specialization Requirements

All PhD students in the mathematics education specialization must complete the following additional requirements.

• Enroll in the seminar course EDUC 838: Research Issues in Mathematics Education (1 credit) in the first 3 semesters for credit and in the remaining semesters as a listener.
• Complete a  Qualifying Study  that will be submitted as part of your Qualifying Examination.
• Pass the  Qualifying Examination  in mathematics education, taken after completion of the four mathematics education courses (usually taken during the summer of Year Two).
• Develop a portfolio demonstrating expertise in the common activities of the profession (e.g. ,  presenting a paper at a professional conference).

Alterations in the program require approval of the full faculty in mathematics education.

Recent Graduates

Our graduates accept academic positions in research universities, departments of education, and school districts, as well as industry positions in educational organizations.

For example, recent PhD in Education graduates with a mathematics education specialization have accepted positions at Washington State University, Western Michigan University, Iona College, University of Southern Mississippi, University of California Chico, Delaware State University, University of Delaware, The College of New Jersey, Towson University, Central Michigan University, West Chester State University, University of Missouri, Rowan University, Salisbury University, Kennesaw State University, University of Northern Iowa, University of Pittsburgh, California State University in Fullerton, Stockton University, Montclair State University, Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Virginia Tech University, Illinois State University and Manhattanville College.

Program Faculty

Our faculty hold grants from the National Science Foundation, the Institute of Education Sciences and private foundations. They have been recognized for their work by the American Educational Research Association, American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education and National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Doctoral Students

Student Spotlight

Amanda Mohammad Mirzaei

“I have experienced a rigorous program in pursuing my Ph.D. in Education at UD, and it certainly hasn’t been a walk in the park. However, the support from the faculty and other graduate students has guaranteed that even at its most difficult, juggling the demands of this degree while pursuing a personal life isn’t impossible. I am happy that I chose the University of Delaware for my Ph.D. program and I would choose it again without hesitation.”

Research Projects

Request More Information

Visit Campus

• Major and Minors
• Graduate Programs
• Prospective Students
• Academic Calendar
• Social Media
• 113 Willard Hall Education Building , Newark, DE 19716
• Phone: (302) 831-8695
• Fax: (302) 831-4110

• My UW-System
• Student Life
• Schools & Colleges
• Centers & Institutes
• Leadership Team
• For Faculty and Staff
• For Researchers
• Request Info
• Give to UWM

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Powerful Ideas. Proven Results.

College of Letters & Science Mathematical Sciences

Phd program.

For more information about the PhD program, please contact the Associate Chair of the Graduate Program .

Applicant must meet Graduate School requirements plus departmental requirements as given for admission to the master’s program. A master’s degree is not a prerequisite for admission to this PhD program.

Reapplication

A student who receives the master’s degree must formally reapply for admission to the Graduate School before continuing studies toward the PhD.

Major Professor as Advisor

The student must have a major professor to advise and supervise the student’s studies as specified in Graduate School regulations. The entering graduate student is assigned a temporary advisor by the Department Graduate Program Coordinator.

Course of Study

Minimum degree requirement is 54 graduate credits beyond the bachelor’s degree, at least 27 of which must be earned in residence at UWM. The student, in consultation with the major professor, must select both a primary and a secondary area of specialization. The primary area may be chosen from one of the following eight fields with minimum credit requirements as shown. The secondary area may be chosen from another of these fields or may be chosen from another appropriate department. Minimum course requirements for all work in both areas of specialization require approximately two full years of study.

• Actuarial Science
• Applied and Computational Mathematics
• Probability & Statistics

Computer Proficiency

The student shall pass an examination on a higher programming language and/or other appropriate advanced computer skills; the examinations administered by the Department’s Computer Committee. The Computer Committee may accept advanced computer science course work in lieu of the examination.

The student must meet minimum Graduate School residence requirements.

Doctoral Preliminary Examination

When the student is sufficiently prepared — normally when the student has earned 24 credits in specified areas above the 700 level — a doctoral preliminary examination to determine the student’s knowledge and achievement is taken. For students in mathematics, the exam evaluates the student’s general knowledge of mathematics, as well as the student’s knowledge of the major area of concentration. Students must pass this examination to continue in the program. With permission of the examination committee, the student may repeat this examination once. If the student does not have a master’s degree in mathematics before this examination, the committee will determine whether the student’s performance is sufficient to qualify for the master’s degree.

Doctoral Dissertation Proposal Hearing

After passing the language requirements and the doctoral preliminary examination, the student participates in a doctoral dissertation proposal hearing. At this hearing, the student is examined on the student’s chosen area of research and a dissertation topic is approved.

Dissertation

The primary requirement for the PhD in mathematics is the candidate’s completion, under the supervision of the Department advisor, of an original and significant mathematical investigation presented in the form of a dissertation. The investigation is to be in the field of algebra, analysis, applied mathematics, probability and statistics, or topology. A dissertation for the industrial mathematics field must involve an industrial problem requiring a mathematical solution.

Dissertation Defense

The candidate must, as the final step toward the degree, present a colloquium based on the dissertation and must pass an oral examination in defense of the dissertation. If the candidate does not successfully defend a thesis within five years of admission to candidacy, the candidate may be required to take another doctoral preliminary examination and be readmitted to candidacy.

All degree requirements must be completed within ten years from the date of initial enrollment in the doctoral program.

Minor Area for Other PhD Majors

A doctoral student planning a physical science major other than mathematics may fulfill requirements for mathematics as the minor area of concentration by completing 12 credits of approved mathematics courses with a grade of B or better, at least 6 credits of which must be in courses 700 or above.

A doctoral student planning a non-physical science major may fulfill requirements for mathematics as the minor area of concentration by completing 12 credits with a grade of B or better in approved mathematics courses 300 or above.

For additional information on the PhD, see the Graduate School Doctoral Requirements page.

Graduate Grievance Procedures

Federal law and UWM policy require programs and departments to have procedures for graduate students to appeal academic decisions such as grades or scholastic standing. These procedures ensure the protection of students’ rights. These pages serve as a reference on procedures for graduate student academic appeals.

• UWM Graduate School Academic Appeal Procedures

The department offers programs covering a broad range of topics leading to the Doctor of Philosophy and the Doctor of Science degrees (the student chooses which to receive; they are functionally equivalent). Candidates are admitted to either the Pure or Applied Mathematics programs but are free to pursue interests in both groups. Of the roughly 120 Ph.D. students, about 2/3 are in Pure Mathematics, 1/3 in Applied Mathematics.

The two programs in Pure and Applied Mathematics offer basic and advanced classes in analysis, algebra, geometry, Lie theory, logic, number theory, probability, statistics, topology, astrophysics, combinatorics, fluid dynamics, numerical analysis, mathematics of data, and the theory of computation. In addition, many mathematically-oriented courses are offered by other departments. Students in Applied Mathematics are especially encouraged to take courses in engineering and scientific subjects related to their research.

All students pursue research under the supervision of the faculty , and are encouraged to take advantage of the many seminars and colloquia at MIT and in the Boston area.

Degree Requirements

Degree requirements consist of:

• Oral qualifying exam
• Classroom teaching
• Original thesis and defense

Prospective students are invited to consult the graduate career timeline for more information, and to read about the application procedure .

Graduate Co-Chairs

Graduate Student Issues, math graduate admissions

Jonathan Kelner , Davesh Maulik , and Zhiwei Yun

Cheers Erupt as Pro-Palestinian Protesters Removed From Michigan Graduation

A fter pro-Palestinian protesters briefly disrupted the University of Michigan's graduation ceremony on Saturday, videos shared to social media show the moment the crowd erupted into cheers as the group of students was escorted to the back of the venue.

About 75 people, many of whom held Palestinian flags and signs, protested on Saturday afternoon during the university's spring graduation ceremony at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor.

The protesters marched up the main aisle while chanting and carrying signs, including a banner that read: "No universities left in Gaza." While photos captured during the ceremony show numerous students donning traditional Arabic keffiyeh with their graduation caps, at least one decorated his cap with the Israeli flag.

Above the stadium, planes flew competing messages, with one reading, "Divest from Israel now! Free Palestine!" while the other read: "We stand with Israel. Jewish lives matter," the Associated Press reported.

University of Michigan spokesperson Colleen Mastony told Newsweek in an email on Saturday evening that no one was arrested and said the protest did not delay the nearly two-hour ceremony, which "celebrated the achievements of 8,500 undergraduates and 6,622 graduate and PhD students before a crowd of 62,000 wellwishers."

"The mood was joyous and the ceremony unfolded successfully and was completed without interruption," Mastony said. "Approximately 75 protesters staged a small demonstration at the beginning of the program, walking up the main aisle and chanting before public safety personnel escorted them to the rear of the stadium, where they remained through the conclusion of the event."

Mastony continued: "Peaceful protests like this have taken place at U-M commencement ceremonies for decades. The university supports free speech and expression, and university leaders are pleased that today's commencement was such a proud and triumphant moment, worthy of the achievements of our extraordinary graduates."

Videos shared to X, formerly Twitter , show the demonstration and the moment the crowd erupts into cheers as the group is escorted away. However, it was unclear at the time of publication whether the crowd was cheering in support or opposition.

The videos show protesters chanting phrases such as "Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest," and "Regents, regents, you can't hide! You are funding genocide." Israel has rejected the allegation that its actions in Gaza are genocidal.

Another video appears to show people chanting in response to the protesters, yelling "Shut the f*** up."

X user Aviva Klompas captioned the clip: "The pro-terror mob is currently ruining graduation day at @UMic h."

Author Oil London shared a video of the demonstration and wrote: "University of Michigan commencement ceremony RUINED after mob of anti-Israel activists stormed the ceremony waving Palestinian flags. 'Palestine will live forever.'"

Adam Y. Abusalah also shared a video of the protest on X, writing: "Graduates at the University of Michigan demonstrate for Palestine at the commencement ceremony in Ann Arbor today. 'Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest.'"

U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, a commencement speaker, paused several times during his remarks, before saying, "Ladies and gentlemen, if you can please draw your attention back to the podium," the AP reported.

Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian demonstrations have spread across campuses in the U.S. following the arrests of protesters who set up a "Gaza Solidarity Encampment" at Columbia University in New York City on April 18. Since then, encampment demonstrations began popping up at universities all over the country, and hundreds of protesters have been arrested. Participants have been demanding that universities divest from companies supporting Israel as well as a permanent ceasefire to end the Israel-Hamas war.

Israel responded militarily after Hamas , a Palestinian militant group, launched a surprise attack on October 7, 2023, on the country that killed roughly 1,200 people and saw over 200 more taken hostage into Gaza. In nearly seven months of fighting, the Palestinian death toll has surpassed 34,000, with more than 76,000 injured in the besieged territory, according to the AP, per the Gaza Health Ministry, which notes that at least two-thirds have been children and women.

The staggering number of Palestinian deaths has sparked widespread condemnation from across the globe. Meanwhile, some protests have turned disruptive and violent , prompting police intervention and causing top U.S. lawmakers to pass legislation. Last week, the House of Representatives approved the Antisemitism Awareness Act to address reports of rising antisemitism on college campuses amid allegations of Jewish students being targeted during campus protests.

Start your unlimited Newsweek trial

• Research & Faculty
• Offices & Services
• Information for:
• Faculty & Staff
• News & Events
• Contact & Visit
• Open Positions
• Message from the Chair
• What is Applied Mathematics?
• Quick Facts
• Undergraduate Study
• Bachelor of Science Degree
• Curriculum & Requirements
• Dual Degrees
• Combined BS/MS Program
• Special Programs
• Student Organizations
• Graduate Study
• Master's Degree
• Typical PhD Sequence
• Information Events
• First-Year Graduate Workshop
• All Department Courses
• Affiliated Centers & Institutes
• Research Areas
• Asymptotic Analysis
• Biological Systems
• Complex Systems
• Diffusive Processes
• Earth Sciences
• Fluid Dynamics
• Materials Science
• Mathematical Biology
• Scientific Computing
• Social Systems
• Wave Propagation
• Stellar Astrophysics
• Core Faculty
• Affiliated Faculty
• Emeritus Faculty
• Advisory Board
• Graduate Students
• Visiting Faculty & Postdocs
• Undergraduate Alumni
• News Archive
• Department & Student Events
• Colloquia & Seminars
• Past Colloquia
• Recorded Talks
• Edward L. Reiss Memorial Lectures
• The Stephen H. Davis Symposium
• Current Students
• Career Resources
• Forms & Documents
• Student Handbooks
• Computing Resources
• Working Offline
• Working Remotely
• Travel and Purchase Reimbursements
• Student Groups
• Northwestern Engineering

People   /   Alumni PhD Alumni

More in this section.

• Engineering Home
• ESAM Department

Contact Info

• Sunday, May 12, 2024

© 2023 - Businessday NG. All Rights Reserved.

• About Us About Us collapsed link
• Services Services collapsed link
• Resources Resources collapsed link
• News & Info News & Info collapsed link
• State Board of Education
• Office of the Superintendent
• MDE Leadership
• MDE Organizational Chart
• Meetings Minutes
• Policies & Statements
• Resolutions
• Public Notices
• SBE Meeting Videos
• Academic Standards
• Administrative Law
• Career and Technical Education
• Early Learners and Care
• Educator Services
• Financial Management
• Flexible Learning Options
• Food & Nutrition Programs
• Health & Safety
• School Performance & Supports
• Special Education
• Student Assessment

Information on Michigan academic standards and instructional resources.

• Michigan K-12 Computer Science Standards
• Section 33 K-5 Music Programs
• K-8 Grade Level Content Expectations for Health Education
• Section 23h Improving Mathematics Teaching and Learning
• Personal Finance
• Section 99d Teaching Diverse Histories Grant
• Teaching Comprehensive History
• Michigan Merit Curriculum/Graduation Requirements
• MDE COVID-19 Online Instructional Resources
• #GoOpen Michigan

Responsible for providing final decisions in administrative appeals to MDE.

Learn more about the MDE office responsible for providing leadership in curriculum and instruction that provides students with greater choices to prepare for success.

• Reports and Data
• Students and Families

Resources for educator certification, recognition programs, evaluation, and workforce research.

• Contact Information
• Educator Certification
• Public Comment
• Educator Retention Supports
• Educator Recruitment
• Recognition Programs
• Educator Workforce Research
• Educator Conduct and Criminal Convictions

Resources related to financial and pupil accounting and auditing.

• Accounting Services
• Budget Services
• Facilities Services
• State Aid & School Finance

Options available for Michigan students that provide unique learning opportunities.

• Advanced Placement (AP)
• Alternative Ed
• Dual Enrollment
• Early Middle College High School Opportunities
• Innovation Council
• International Baccalaureate
• Michigan Seal of Biliteracy
• School Options
• WBL Health Services Academies
• Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
• Best Food Forward
• Child Nutrition Program Data and Data Requests
• Michigan School Meals
• Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
• Fiscal & Administrative Services
• Food Distribution
• Nutrition Coordination
• Procurement and Contracts
• School Nutrition Programs
• Summer Food Service Program

This MDE office provides resources and technical assistance in physical education, sex education, health education, behavioral, emotional, mental, and social education as well as safety, discipline, and transportation.

• Section 31o
• Pupil Transportation
• Active Students Toolkit
• Alternatives to Suspensions and Expulsions Toolkit
• Curriculum & Standards
• Flint Registry
• HIV STD and Sexuality Education
• Mental Health Toolkit
• School Safety and Mental Health Commission
• School Health Services
• Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

Resources for programs and initiatives that support school improvement efforts.

• Accountability
• Accreditation
• Data Requests for Researchers
• Early Warning Intervention and Monitoring System (EWIMS)
• Educational Supports
• English Learners (ELs)
• Graduation Guidance
• Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
• Partnership Districts
• Statewide System of Support (SSoS)
• Resources for Schools Identified for CSI, ATS, or TSI

Resources for supporting special education in Michigan.

• Laws and Regulations
• Dispute Resolution Options
• Evaluations and IEPs
• Parent Resources
• Data and Reporting
• Program Planning
• Personnel and Professional Development
• Supports for Students with Disabilities
• Special Education Advisory Committee

Michigan has an innovative and comprehensive system of assessments to measure student achievement in learning our state content standards.

• Assessment Calendars
• Assessment Integrity and Security
• Assessment Literacy
• Benchmark Assessments
• Early Literacy and Mathematics Benchmark Assessments (K-2)
• Formative Assessment Process
• Michigan Merit Exam (MME)
• Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP)
• National Assessment of Educational Progress
• OEAA Secure Site
• Secure Site Training
• Spotlight Newsletter
• WIDA Assessments (K-12 ELP Assessments and Screener)
• Accelerated Learning
• FAFSA Completion Challenge Grant
• Family Engagement (MiLEAP)
• Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)
• Indigenous Education
• Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan
• Career Development Resources
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
• ESSA Resources
• Educator Resources
• Indigenous Communities in Michigan
• MDE Indigenous Education Initiative
• Research and Data
• Tribal Consultation in Michigan
• Promising Practices Exchange
• Metrics & Presentations
• Annual Report
• Michigan's Top 10 Strategic Education Plan Tool Kit
• Definitions
• Postsecondary Credit Agreements
• MDE Annual Review
• Press Releases

Archive of News Items

• News & Info

Search is currently unavailable. Please try again later.

Popular on michigan.gov

• Agriculture and Rural Development
• Civil Rights
• Environment
• Health and Human Services
• Natural Resources
• Secretary of State

How Do I...

• Register to Vote
• Renew My License Plate
• View assistance programs

The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer. 

• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge

Michigan Teachers Chosen as State Finalists for Math, Science Presidential Teaching Award

May 09, 2024

LANSING – Four outstanding Michigan educators who work with elementary school students have been selected as state finalists for the 2024 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the Michigan Department of Education announced today.

• Rebecca Durling, Discovery Elementary School, Williamston Community Schools, Science.
• Molly Jeppesen, Symons Elementary School, Milan Area Schools, Science.
• Jessica Mahl, Jane Addams Elementary School, South Redford School District, Science.
• Janice Kato, North Elementary School, Birch Run Area Schools, Mathematics.

“Michigan and its students are fortunate to have so many dedicated and talented teachers,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice. “We salute these great educators and wish them the best of luck at the national level this year.”

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching program is administered by the National Science Foundation on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Each year, a national committee of prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics/science education researchers, district-level personnel, and classroom teachers recommends up to 110 teachers to receive the awards.

Of the finalists, up to two mathematics or science teachers from each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. territories as a group, and schools operated in the United States and overseas by the Department of Defense Education Activity receive the award.

Awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also earn a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation and a presidential certificate and join an elite group of award-winning teachers who support and promote their state or jurisdiction and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics teaching.

For more information, visit the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching website .

Media Contact:

Media Contact

Public and Governmental Affairs

[email protected]

517-241-4395

Related News

Three michigan students named u.s. presidential scholars, rochester high school teacher is michigan’s teacher of the year, michigan department of education and library of michigan seek nominations for next michigan poet laureate, michigan department of education, students recognize teachers, state superintendent rice highlights teacher educator programs and state efforts addressing teacher shortage, try it thursday, broccoli that kids like, student-grown produce are stuff of heroes, two michigan schools named u.s. department of education green ribbon schools, thirteen michigan students selected semifinalists for 2024 u.s. presidential scholars program, u-m researcher chosen to study how michigan’s education governance system can improve outcomes for students.

Applied Math PhD candidate wins Universe 2024 Travel Award

José Polo Gomez, a graduate student at the Department of Applied Mathematics and the Institute for Quantum Computing, was named one of two winners of the Universe 2024 Travel Award . The award, given by the journal Universe , supports travel to present at an international conference.  

Congratulations, José!

News by audience

• Current undergraduate students (2)
• Current graduate students (4)
• Future undergraduate students (1)
• Future graduate students (4)
• Faculty (50)
• Alumni (22)
• Donors | Friends | Supporters (23)
• Employers (1)

News archive

• November (2)
• October (2)
• September (4)
• January (2)
• September (1)
• February (1)
• January (3)

Contact Info

Department of Applied Mathematics University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2L 3G1 Phone: 519-888-4567, ext. 32700 Fax: 519-746-4319

Provide website feedback

PDF files require Adobe Acrobat Reader

• Contact Waterloo
• Maps & Directions
• Accessibility

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations .