The Science and Math Teaching Center (SMTC) at the University of Wyoming offers dynamic, research-based professional development that is tailored to the real needs of K-12 educators. What sets SMTC apart is its deep integration with the university's research community and its commitment to sustained, hands-on support, offering everything from customizable in-person workshops to cutting-edge virtual labs and data-driven resources. Teachers do not just attend a training and leave; they engage in meaningful, long-term professional learning built around classroom practice and state standards.
What makes SMTC especially compelling is the opportunity to work alongside university researchers, earn graduate credits or teaching endorsements, and access innovative tools like digital science labs and collaborative data repositories. With flexible delivery, authentic content, and a focus on measurable impact, SMTC empowers educators to elevate their instruction and connect students with real-world STEM learning, no matter where they teach in Wyoming and beyond.
Who we are
The Science & Math Teaching Center (SMTC) is dedicated to advancing excellence in PreK-20 science and math education across the state and beyond. Housed within the College of Education, SMTC empowers educators through research-based graduate programs, innovative professional learning opportunities, and strong partnerships with UW faculty, research labs, and interdisciplinary initiatives. Graduate offerings such as the Middle-Level Math and Science programs, as well as the customizable Master of Science in Teaching, provide in-service educators with advanced content knowledge, PTSB endorsements, and flexible learning formats designed to fit the schedules of full-time teachers. In addition to degree programs, SMTC delivers tailored professional development, both in person and online, that supports teachers, coaches, and administrators in enhancing STEM instruction. With a statewide reach impacting thousands of educators and tens of thousands of students, SMTC fosters a collaborative network of professionals dedicated to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. By participating in SMTC programs, educators join a vibrant community committed to growing their practice, leading in their fields, and making a lasting difference in classrooms and communities.
What We Stand For & How We Make an Impact
Our Mission: We are committed to advancing excellence in preK-20 science and math education. Through research-based, relevant professional learning and graduate programs, we empower educators across Wyoming and beyond to enhance student learning and shape future generations.
Our Vision: We envision a future where educators are equipped with the knowledge, skills and innovative practices to inspire the next generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers. As a national leader in STEM education, particularly in rural areas, we aim to build collaborative communities of practice where K-12 professionals, university faculty and research scientists transform science and math teaching.
Learn More About Our Graduate Programs
Our MMA program is designed for current K-12 educators who wish to deepen their content
knowledge and teaching skills interested in earning a Master of Science degree with
a specialized concentration in Middle-Level Mathematics Education. This program is
ideal for elementary, middle and high school educators looking to enhance their expertise
in mathematics instruction. The curriculum emphasizes both mathematics content and
pedagogical strategies, with a particular focus on teaching middle school students.
Upon completion, participants will earn a middle-level math endorsement from the Wyoming
Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB).
If you have at least two years of classroom experience, a passion for mathematics and a desire to advance your career while improving your teaching effectiveness, this is the program for you!
The MSC program is designed for Wyoming’s in-service elementary, middle and high school
teachers with at least two years of experience, offering a unique opportunity to deepen
content knowledge and improve pedagogical practices. Focused on science content with
an emphasis on middle school learners, this program counts toward professional development
hours to help you become a “highly qualified” teacher. You can choose between earning
a Master’s in Natural Science or a UW Certificate. Upon completion, participants will
earn a middle-level science endorsement from the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards
Board (PTSB).
The courses blend content and pedagogy, applying interdisciplinary concepts to real-world situations, helping you make a greater impact in the classroom!
Our MST program is a self-directed Master's degree path, developed in collaboration
with the SMTC. This particular program can be tailored to your preferences in STEM
content (natural science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology) and pedagogy interests.
You can focus on formal or informal learning environments, and interdisciplinary study
is encouraged. Designed for individuals pursuing careers as environmental and natural
science educators in non-formal and independent school settings, this MST offers an
opportunity to gain diverse experiences, deepen knowledge and build professional networks.
This is a unique option that can allow current K-12 educators and non-traditional educators alike to gain content knowledge and advance their careers!
SMTC Graduate Programs at a Glance
Middle-Level Math
The MMA program helps Wyoming teachers deepen content knowledge and improve pedagogy while earning a Master’s or certificate, along with an endorsement from PTSB.
Middle-Level Science
The MSC program helps Wyoming teachers deepen their science knowledge and pedagogy, offering a Master's in Natural Science or UW Certificate and a middle-level science endorsement.
Master’s of Science
The Master’s of Science in Teaching program is a self-guided graduate degree perfect for educators who are passionate about innovative thinking and creative approaches to teaching.
SMTC Professional development
We know that teachers' time is valuable, which is why we are committed to ensuring our professional development (PD) opportunities have a lasting impact. Our team collaborates closely with school districts across Wyoming to address the unique needs of teachers. Each of our PD offerings can be tailored to your specific needs, including multi-day programs, single-day sessions and targeted workshops on specific topics. While we typically work in-person with teachers, we’ve expanded to offer virtual workshops as well. Our knowledgeable team thrives on supporting preK-12 teachers, facilitators, coaches and administrators in their professional growth, and we are excited to see what we can accomplish together!
Interested in learning more about our various science teacher professional learning offerings? Reach out to our team to learn more!
Reach out to us to learn more about our various mathematics teacher professional learning opportunities!
The SMTC offers assorted open enrollment STEM education workshops. Express your interest in participating in future SMTC open enrollment workshops by contacting us or completing the open enrollment survey.
Science and Math Teaching Center News
The Science and Math Teaching Center (SMTC) has a lot of important news to share from conferences to graduation. Please visit often to see our updated news section!
Light the Way, Seize the Day Giving Day is coming up on October 23, 2025 from noon to noon on October 24, 2025.
Empowering Wyoming's Teachers. Inspiring Wyoming's Students.
At the Science & Math Teaching Center at the University of Wyoming, we believe that great teachers change lives. We provide Wyoming educators with cutting-edge training, hands-on learning resources, and professional development that sparks curiosity and builds confidence in STEM classrooms across the state.
Your UW Giving Day donation fuels:
-Innovative science & math workshops
-Access to teaching resources
-Opportunities for educators to grow professionally
-A ripple effect that reaches every student they teach
When you give, you are not just supporting teachers, you are shaping Wyoming's future!
October 23-24, 2025
Every dollar makes a difference. Every teacher matters. Every student benefits.
The Summer 2025 cohort had a lot of fun with their field experience digging for fossils!
Find the Science and Mathematics Teaching Center on LinkedIn! We share exciting information, resources, and news on our page! Follow us for more!
Over the past year, SMTC had the privilege of collaborating with two other outstanding STEM education centers, Texas Tech University's STEM CORE and the FGCU Whitaker Center for STEM Education. Together, we have explored ways to overcome barriers, build community, and strengthen the impact of STEM education initiatives across the country. On this day, we had the opportunity to share our work at the International Teaching Learning Cooperative's Lilly Conference on Innovative Strategies to Advance Student Learning in Asheville, NC. It was inspiring to connect with educators and leaders committed to enhancing teaching and learning in higher education. Grateful for the collaboration and the chance to exchange ideas with such dedicated colleagues!
The SMTC had a great time tabling and presenting at the TeacherCON25 this year! It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with passionate educators, share resources, and have meaningful conversations about the future of education in Wyoming! Our team enjoyed showcasing the work we do to support STEM teachers across Wyoming. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table or attend our sessions! A big shoutout to the organizers and sponsors of TeacherCON25, Wyoming Department of Education, and University of Wyoming College of Education, for making such an energizing and engaging event possible!
Benefits for You and Your Students
Teachers are the best example of lifelong learners. Our programs and PD opportunities are designed to help teachers refine their skills and enhance their teaching practices. This ongoing growth not only improves effectiveness in the classroom but also has the power to reignite your passion for your subject area, inspiring both you and your students!
Stay updated on SMTC events and learn about the exciting work and achievements of our team and alumni! Follow along to see what’s happening in our community and stay connected.
Thanks to the support of our generous donor, Gene Strid, SMTC is able to offer four awards to graduate students who excel in their courses and advance STEM education. Learn more about the awards and how to apply.
The Science and Math Teaching Center exists thanks to our dedicated team of teachers, researchers and innovators. We are passionate about our field and committed to supporting educators in their work.
The Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB) has approved the SMTC graduate programs for official PTSB endorsement. Learn more about how to complete this process.
The impact that dedicated teachers can have on their students and community cannot be understated. We're here to support Wyoming's educators as they continue to make a lasting difference.
Work With Us!