MAT Programs

In the context of education and teaching, MAT stands for Master of Arts in Teaching. Schools offer MAT programs for aspiring teachers in the K-12 grade levels. Some schools offer Masters of Education (MEd) that serve similiar purpose as MAT degree programs. MEd programs tend to be more board and usually covers administration and curriculum creation in addition to teaching.

Keep in mind that most states require teachers to have a teaching credential. MAT Programs typically will help prepare students for teaching credential exams. Each state has their own requirement to take the exam with each state's exam slightly different from each other.

Top MAT Programs

1. USC Rossier Online Master of Arts in Teaching
   USC's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program is intended for future K–12 teachers looking to become great teachers and help students succeed. Their program has five areas of concentrations that students can focus on:
   • Multiple Subject Teaching (Elementary)
   • Secondary English
   • Secondary Mathematics
   • Secondary Science
   • Secondary Social Science
2. Brown University - MAT
   One of the most recognizable schools in the country, Brown University's MAT program prepares teachers in elementary education (grades 1-6) or secondary education (grades 7-12) English, history/social studies, or science (biology, chemistry, or engineering/physics).
3. University of Vermont MAT Program
   The Secondary Education Teacher Preparation Program offers a Licensure Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Curriculum and Instruction, and is geared towards individuals who have a bachelor's degree in an existing academic discipline and who want to become licensed to teach in Vermont with a graduate degree.
4. UC Irvine MAT Program
   UC Irvine's graduate education department is known for producing quality teachers through its MAT Program. Students can complete the MAT Program in as quick as a year and a half.
5. University of Portland - Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)
   University of Portland's MAT Program is condensed into 10 months and helps prepare students to becoming licensed early childhood, elementary, middle school and high school teachers.