Department of Educational Technology and Literacy (EDTL)

Master of Arts in Teaching

The Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) is designed for those without formal training in the field of education who wish to enter the teaching profession. It is well suited to recent graduates and to those seeking to change careers. A graduate of this program will meet state teacher certification requirements* within the General Education Tracks of Early Childhood, Elementary, or Secondary Education.  A student may also choose the Special Education Track in Early Childhood, Elementary, or Secondary Education.

General Education Track students have the option of completing their program as a One-Year student.  Please note that the Special Education Track is not offered as a One-Year Option. The MAT program allows students to design a course load to fit their schedule (generally 1-3 courses per semester). Please note that students must be able to participate in a minimum of 8 hours of daytime field experience per course during the fall and spring semesters, complete substantial daytime observation/participation hours (110 hours, usually 1 day per week) along with Internship I, and become full time for Internship II in the 18-week extended final semester. The One-Year Option requires a full-time commitment to courses and field placement; this program will encompass a summer semester, fall semester and an extended spring semester. Field placements and internships are completed in local public professional development schools in partnership with the university.  Please note that all placements must be completed in subject areas and grade levels appropriate to the declared certification track in the MAT.  Understanding of assessment literacy, demonstrated evidence of pre-kindergarten through 12th grade student learning, and development of essential dispositions for educators are integrated throughout the program and assessed in the final semester. The development and presentation of a portfolio that demonstrates attainment of national performance standards will take the place of a master's thesis. Guidance in portfolio development is an integral part of the program.

*Although not an M.A.T. program requirement, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) additionally requires that all applicants for state teaching licensure successfully complete the PRAXIS II exam.  Most students take PRAXIS II during their final semester of program course work.