We are supporting the training of Mathematics Specialists Statewide and enhancing the professional development for many other teachers through the development and offering of a Statewide Masters Degree. Reuben Farley at VCU is directing this program. This training and the flexible degree concept under which it will be offered has received numerous requests from teachers and supervisors. VCU has begun the process of initiation of a Statewide Masters Degree with the other universities and with the State Council for Higher Education in Virginia, and has a joint Interdisciplinary Mathematics and Science Masters program with UVA. A statewide graduate program in engineering with a similar format is well established, and this new flexible program will remain after partnership funding is completed.  Institutions across the state anticipating joining VCU and UVA in this initiative include project partner NSU, James Madison University, George Mason University, Old Dominion University and Virginia Tech. We will create a flexible masters program featuring opportunities to earn credits from partner universities across the state in different scenarios, such as: Masters of Interdisciplinary Studies (Math and Science); Mathematics/Science Specialist; and a Masters of Arts in Mathematics Teaching (blending mathematics, content pedagogy, and leadership).

A quality control board with graduate school representatives from all participating IHEs will approve the content of masters programs offered under this umbrella, approve individual plans of study and award degrees. All of the resources within the state (including universities, museums, and science centers) will be utilized, and individuals will be able to combine different types of credits including: On-site credit at local institution; Residential credit from various institutions offered through grant-funded Summer Institutes around the state; Credits earned through various university centers statewide; Transfer credits earned in-state or elsewhere; Distance learning credits earned by completing on-line courses from various universities statewide. The core set of graduate mathematics and mathematics education courses developed and piloted as a part of this project will apply to statewide Masters Degrees.  As of Fall 2004, VCU has developed a track within the Masters in Interdisciplinary Studies program specifically designed for Mathematics Specialists. Other offerings within the Statewide Masters Degree program are in various stages of development.