About ITCEP

The Institute of Technology Center for Educational Programs (ITCEP) is one of 24 Institute of Technology (IT) Research Centers that encompass engineering, the physical sciences, and mathematics. ITCEP develops and administers educational programs in mathematics and its related science and engineering applications for pre-college, undergraduate and graduate students, and for K-12 preservice/inservice teachers. The Center contributes to research, assessment, and educational scholarship, and collaborates with University, local and national policy groups who work in these areas.

The academic year and summer programs that ITCEP offers mathematically promising K-12 students provide them with a supportive environment in which to explore challenging mathematics at the University of Minnesota. Each year, about five hundred students in grades 5-12 participate in ITCEP's twenty-four year old premier academic program, the University of Minnesota Talented Youth Mathematics Program (UMTYMP). In addition, about 450 students enroll each year in 6 Saturday morning enrichment programs for students in grades 3-12. A further 200 students participate in summer enrichment programs. All these programs provide opportunities to learn and enjoy mathematics and introduce students to the role of mathematics in society through meeting and working with scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. Students also have the opportunity to meet and interact with U of MN undergraduate students, most of whom are majoring in mathematics, engineering, or science.

ITCEP also works with two programs for teachers – a Masters degree in Mathematics and Mathematics Education, and a professional development program for in-service teachers. The Masters program, housed in the School of Mathematics as a Master’s of Science Degree, gives participants the opportunity to indulge their higher math craving, gain invaluable teaching experience, receive financial aid, and earn a teaching license – all in just two years – giving them an advantage in any number of career fields. Sixteen students have successfully graduated from this program and eight students are currently enrolled. The professional development program, Mathematics Within, combines teachers’ experiences with faculty knowledge to increase participants’ understanding of grade 3-7 mathematics concepts and how these concepts relate to one another and with concepts throughout K-12 education. The Mathematics Within program not only increases teacher confidence in their ability to teach mathematics, it motivates them and helps them take leadership roles. To date, 89 elementary school teachers have participated in the program.