Lockheed Martin/UCF Mathematics and Science Academy

This program is designed for certified teachers in Central Florida who are looking for a way to enhance their skills and engage more students in mathematics and science.

This two-year master’s degree program allows you to build upon your existing educational skillset. As you progress through this program, you will learn how to teach mathematics and science in new and captivating ways that will unleash the potential to transform your classroom, improving your students’ comprehension and sparking their interest in STEM careers.

You are eligible to apply to this program if you have taught mathematics or science for at least three years at a public elementary or middle school in Florida. Eligible applicants also hold one or more of the following teaching certificates: Elementary K-6, Science 5-9, Science 6-12, Mathematics 5-9, or Mathematics 6-12.

Thanks to the endowment from the Lockheed Martin Corporation, you might be eligible for tuition support. Additionally, if you already hold a Certificate of Participation for internship supervision, you may be able to use it towards your tuition.

To be considered for acceptance, you must:

• Apply for the K–8 Mathematics and Science Education (MEd) degree program.
• Submit completed UCF graduate admission forms.
• Submit a separate K–8 application for the academy.
• Contact Dr. Sarah B. Bush, Director of the Lockheed Martin/UCF Mathematics and Science Academy, at lma@ucf.edu with any questions.

Admission for this program is limited yearly, so apply early!

This program is designed for adults interested in becoming a teacher who graduated with a degree in mathematics or science, and who have worked in STEM for several years. Consider an impactful career change where you can inspire the lives of youth by becoming a mathematics or science teacher. If you’re interested in teaching mathematics or science to grades 6–12 students, the Transition to Mathematics and Science Teaching (T-MAST) program is your next step.

Our mission is to increase the number of and graduate the highest-quality mathematics and science teachers for middle and high schools both in Central Florida and beyond. Through the T-MAST program, we transform professionals with mathematics and science backgrounds into certified educators through coursework, professional guidance and on-the-job training. Designed to be completed in four semesters, this fast-tracked graduate program results in a master's degree with an embedded teaching certificate, accelerated classroom employment and ongoing professional community.

Hands-on experience is vital for budding teachers, and it’s why one of T-MAST’s most unique components is a paid internship. Over the span of a year, you will teach in a public middle or high school during the day and attend courses in the evening. This internship puts your newfound skills to practice and streamlines your way into the classroom. To participate, you must meet all Orange County Public Schools hiring criteria.

To help you throughout the internship journey, you will be assigned two mentors — a seasoned teacher and a university-based faculty member. Your mentors will meet with you to observe your lessons, give feedback and support you in other ways. This mentorship may be extended to the first year after you graduate.

If you feel this program is right for you, contact Dr. Sarah B. Bush, Director of the Lockheed Martin/UCF Mathematics and Science Academy, at lma@ucf.edu and complete the following:

• Submit UCF graduate admissions forms, passing scores on the General Knowledge Test (GKT), and an application for either the Mathematics Education or the Science Education track of the Master of Arts in Teaching.
• Register for and take the subject-area examination corresponding to your track.
• Apply for a fellowship and wait to learn if the Academy can sponsor you.
• If possible, begin to substitute-teach.

Enroll in the T-MAST program and inspire a new generation with your expertise.