Academically Rigorous Curriculum
We understand the challenges that today’s teachers face and are dedicated to transforming education. In developing the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, we looked at the issues teachers are currently dealing with in today’s classrooms and developed a curriculum that addresses these problems of practice. The result is a curriculum that integrates theory effectively with classroom practice in the 21st century.
Coursework is divided into four broad categories that provide students with theoretical foundations, teaching strategies and the practical experiences necessary to make a difference in schools across the country.
| Category | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Foundations | Provide in-depth knowledge in sociological and psychological theories and their application in the classroom. Foundations classes also introduce students to the latest strategies for infusing technology into instruction. |
| Teaching Methods | Lay the foundation for teaching linguistically and ethnically diverse students in urban schools. Courses introduce students to planning, implementing, and assessing instruction across all content areas. |
| Language and Literacy | Ground students in the theories of language and literacy for both primary and second language learners and the application of these concepts across all content areas. Language and literacy issues are at the forefront of educational reform efforts nationally and globally. |
| Field Experience and Capstone Portfolio | Field experiences are an integral part of most MAT courses. From the beginning of the program, students are placed in local classrooms to observe and practice the applications of theories and instructional methods from mentor teachers. To demonstrate the knowledge and skills developed throughout the program, students will complete a comprehensive summative portfolio. |
Program Length
The complete program which is comprised of a minimum of 30 units can be completed in about one year on a full-time basis or over two to three years on a part-time basis.
The Capstone Experience
You will complete an action-research project that challenges you to examine two areas of your teaching capabilities that you would like to improve. Individually guided by faculty members you will spend time reviewing existing academic research in those areas and planning how to put your new learnings into practice. You will then implement these changes in your own classroom, record your teaching performance with a digital video camera and upload your experiences for evaluation by your instructors and peers as part of the final review process.
Click here to learn more about the program or to speak with an Admissions Counselor call 1.888.628.1872.
