Teaching
Overview
The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) allows students who have an undergraduate degree in areas other than education the opportunity to earn a master’s degree and gain initial licensure. Students can earn state licensure and a master's degree in 1-2 years. The MAT program provides integrated coursework focused on diverse learners, as well as field experiences that require theoretical and practical knowledge application.
The MAT prepares candidates to earn the Learning Behavior Specialist I licensure (LBS1), elementary education licensure or secondary education licensure.
MAT candidates complete four to five semesters, totaling 39 hours of hybrid or online coursework while engaging in field-based, hands-on learning experiences in public school settings. Students enroll in 6-12 hours each semester and progress through the program as members of a cohort, with each new cohort beginning during the summer term. Field experiences occur during the work day.
Coursework is designed to allow candidates the opportunity to evaluate and conduct research in the classroom towards the end of the program. A series of developmentally sequenced field experiences are required for the full age range, all types and ability levels, as well as collaborative opportunities appropriate to the license being sought. All field experiences are supervised by qualified department faculty and are supported through the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior Dean’s office.
Please note that international students are ineligible to receive a student visa for this program. Students with undergraduate degrees in teacher education are not eligible for this program.
Why choose SIUE?
SIUE is a leader in education, dedicated to addressing teacher shortages in Illinois and across the United States.
To help address the current teacher shortage, the following funding sources may be available to students studying in the state of Illinois:
- Golden Apple Accelerators Program
- TEACH grant
- Minority student scholarships
- Special education scholarships (special education MAT only)
- Reduced tuition rates and tuition waivers for members of the military and Department of Defense
What can I do with a master's degree in teaching?
With a growing need for educators nationwide, as well as anticipated continued growth, MAT graduates have a wide range of employment opportunities. The MAT prepares candidates to earn the Learning Behavior Specialist I licensure (LBS1), elementary education licensure or secondary education licensure.
Professional Credential Disclosure
This program is intended to prepare students for licensure/certification meeting educational requirements established by regulatory boards in the state of Illinois. Licensure/certification requirements can vary by state. If you intend to practice or teach inside or outside the state of Illinois, please visit our professional licensure webpage.
What do our students say about the MAT program?
"Entering the MAT program was one of the best decisions I have made. The cohort exposed me to the Virtual Professional Practice Lab, which gave me the confidence to complete my field placements. In addition, it gave me the opportunity to build lasting relationships with future teachers just like me."
-Lunetha Robinson
"The MAT program has allowed me to pursue my goals with a group of individuals who are driven, kind and passionate about becoming the best educators they can be. The opportunity to earn your master's while working in the field, and being able to take what you learn and apply it every day is just a small part of what makes this program special."
-Terry Chapman
Faculty
View current Department of Teaching and Learning faculty.
