| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-05-01 | - |
Program Overview
It emphasizes inquiry-based learning, strong pedagogical skills, and a commitment to social justice and equity. The program offers specializations in various areas, including Art, Early Childhood Education, Music, and Secondary Education. Graduates are equipped to become effective educators in diverse educational settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
This personalized program allows you to hone your teaching skills while earning a graduate degree. It leads to initial licensure and emphasizes inquiry-based learning.
Objectives:
- Prepare individuals for initial teaching licensure in Pennsylvania.
- Develop strong pedagogical skills and content knowledge.
- Foster reflective practitioners committed to social justice and equity.
- Equip graduates with the ability to adapt to a changing educational landscape.
Description:
The MAT program combines coursework, field experiences, and student teaching to provide a comprehensive learning experience. The program is designed to be flexible and can be completed in 18 months, 2 years, or 2.5 years depending on your background and chosen specialization.
Outline:
PA Teacher Certification Programs:
The MAT program offers specializations in:
- Art
- Early Childhood Education (ECE)
- Music
- Secondary Education: Biology, English, Mathematics, General Science, Social Studies
Course Requirements:
The specific course requirements vary depending on your chosen specialization and completion timeline. However, all programs share some common elements:
- Introduction to the Education of English Language Learners
- Culture, Community & Diversity: Intro to Critical Pedagogy
- Student Development and Instructional Design
- Including Students with Disabilities
- Content-specific coursework: This includes courses like Curriculum & Instruction in Art, Music Education, and Teaching Biology.
- Field Experiences: These provide opportunities to observe and practice teaching in real-world classrooms.
- Student Teaching: This culminating experience allows you to take on the full responsibilities of a classroom teacher under the guidance of a mentor.
Structure:
The program is divided into stages:
- Stage 1 & 2: Focus on foundational knowledge and skills in education.
- Stage 3: Deepen your understanding of content and pedagogy in your chosen specialization.
- Student Teaching: Apply your knowledge and skills in a real-world classroom setting.
Schedule:
The program can be completed in 18 months, 2 years, or 2.5 years depending on your chosen specialization and whether you attend full- or part-time.
Modules:
Each specialization within the MAT program consists of a series of modules that cover different aspects of teaching. For example, the Art specialization includes modules on Art Processes and Structures, Curriculum & Instruction in Art Grades Pre-k-6, and Curriculum & Instruction in Art Grades 7-12.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the course and module. They may include:
- Exams and quizzes
- Assignments and projects
- Classroom observations and participation
- Student teaching evaluations
- Portfolio development
Teaching:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures and discussions
- Collaborative group work
- Hands-on activities and simulations
- Technology-enhanced learning
- Individualized mentorship The program boasts a faculty of experienced educators with expertise in their respective fields. They are committed to providing personalized attention and support to each student.
Careers:
Graduates of the MAT program are prepared for a variety of careers in education, including:
- Elementary school teacher
- Middle school teacher
- High school teacher
- Special education teacher
- Curriculum developer
- Educational administrator The program also provides graduates with the skills and knowledge to pursue further studies in education or related fields.
Other:
- The program emphasizes social justice and equity in education.
- Students have opportunities to participate in research and service-learning projects.
- The program is housed in the newly renovated Priscilla Payne Hurd Hall, which provides state-of-the-art facilities for teacher education.
Entry Requirements:
For both EU home and international overseas students outside the EU:
- Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required.
- Prerequisite Courses: Students must have completed coursework in the content area they wish to teach. Specific requirements vary depending on the chosen content area.
- Praxis Exams: Applicants must pass the appropriate Praxis Series examinations for their chosen content area.
- International Students: International students must also demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following requirements:
- A minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL iBT
- A minimum score of 7.0 on the IELTS
- A minimum score of 55 on the Pearson PTE Academic
Language Proficiency Requirements:
International students whose native language is not English must meet one of the following requirements:
- A minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL iBT
- A minimum score of 7.0 on the IELTS
- A minimum score of 55 on the Pearson PTE Academic
Additional Notes:
- Students with a bachelor's degree outside of their chosen content area must take and pass the appropriate Praxis exam before enrolling in the program.
- The MAT program offers two different options: an 18-month accelerated option and a 24-month traditional option.
- The program also offers a 20-month option for Early Childhood Education and a 2.5-year option for Early Childhood Education with Post-Baccalaureate Certification.
