Master of Arts in Teaching

Program Overview

Brenau University's online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program prepares individuals with a bachelor's degree to become certified teachers in elementary, middle, high school, or special education. The program combines online coursework with in-person field experiences and student teaching, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and certification to effectively teach in their chosen grade level and subject area.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree program at Brenau University is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in any discipline and are seeking to transition into a career as a classroom teacher. This 100% online program provides students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and certification to teach in elementary school, middle school, high school, or special education.

Objectives:

The MAT program aims to prepare students to:

• Effectively teach students in their chosen grade level and subject area
• Create and implement engaging and effective lesson plans
• Manage and facilitate classroom environments that promote student learning and growth
• Collaborate with colleagues, parents, and the community
• Stay abreast of current trends and best practices in education

Program Description:

The MAT program consists of 30-36 credit hours, depending on the program option selected. All coursework is delivered online and includes a combination of synchronous and asynchronous classes, discussion boards, and assignments. Students also complete in-person field experiences and student teaching in various settings.

Outline:

Program Content:

The MAT program curriculum focuses on classroom instructional skills and includes courses in:

• Foundations of Education
• Child and Adolescent Development
• Educational Psychology
• Classroom Management
• Teaching Methods
• Content-Specific Pedagogy

Program Structure:

The MAT program is offered as a five-semester program with start terms in the fall and spring. Students typically take two to three courses per semester, depending on their individual needs and schedules.

Course Schedule:

The course schedule for the MAT program varies depending on the program option selected and the student's individual schedule. Students can view the course schedule for each program option on the Brenau University website.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

Students in the MAT program are assessed through various methods, including:

• Quizzes
• Exams
• Homework assignments and projects
• Discussions boards
• Presentations
• Field experiences and student teaching

Assessment Criteria:

Students are assessed on their knowledge of course content, their ability to apply theory to practice, their communication skills, their critical thinking skills, and their professional dispositions.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The MAT program uses a variety of teaching methods to engage students and promote learning, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Role-playing
• Hands-on activities

Faculty:

The MAT program faculty are experienced educators with expertise in their respective content areas and pedagogical practices. They are dedicated to providing students with the support and guidance they need to succeed.

Unique Approaches:

The MAT program at Brenau University incorporates several unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:

• Small class sizes that allow for individualized attention and support from faculty
• Opportunities for students to engage in reflective practice through journaling and self-assessment
• Collaboration with local schools and community organizations to provide students with real-world experience

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the MAT program are prepared for a wide range of teaching careers in:

• Elementary schools
• Middle schools
• High schools
• Special education settings

Career Opportunities:

The MAT program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and certification necessary to pursue a variety of career opportunities in education, including:

• Classroom teacher
• Special education teacher
• Curriculum developer
• Educational consultant
• School administrator