Master of Arts in Teaching
The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Program is designed for liberal arts graduates in English, some foreign languages, Latin and classical humanities, mathematics, the sciences, history, and political science who wish to teach in middle or secondary schools and who have not completed any professional education courses. In collaboration with the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, students in this 12-month, full-time program prepare for Massachusetts initial teacher licensure and further strengthen their chosen academic fields. Program graduates complete courses in professional education, additional graduate courses in their content fields, and a student-teaching experience. Students are admitted to the School of Education and the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences jointly.
The Master of Arts in Teaching Program is a 12-month program for full-time students seeking initial licensure for teaching at the middle, junior, or senior high school levels in accordance with requirements in the state of Massachusetts. Licensure reciprocity exists with many states, but students should investigate specifics in the state of anticipated residence. The program begins in June each year, though in some cases students may begin in September. It is also possible to complete the degree over a longer time period as a part-time student.
The Boston University MAT program offers a joint master’s degree that draws upon the rich resources of the entire University. Students complete four courses in their chosen field of study in the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences and learn pedagogy and teaching methodology in the School of Education. Some of the departments in the Graduate School require that students successfully complete a master’s exam in order to meet the MAT requirements. Students seeking licensure in Latin and classical humanities may be obliged to complete a comprehensive examination in the Classical Studies department. Students seeking licensure as English teachers must complete an additional 2-credit course in reading. The professional education component consists of study in educational research, foundations of education, curriculum and methods of instruction, and student-teaching. This combination ensures strength in the field of study combined with a comprehensive set of teaching skills appropriate to adolescents. Teachers are expected to become innovators and leaders in education, looking beyond the classroom to the social, historic, psychological, economic, and cultural factors that influence the student’s school experience.
The Master of Arts in Teaching Program is designed for talented liberal arts graduates who have not completed any professional education courses. Students may be admitted to the MAT with undergraduate degrees in the following areas: English, Latin and classical humanities, history, French, Spanish, political science/government, political philosophy, sociology, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Students with undergraduate degrees in interdisciplinary programs such as American or environmental studies may be eligible for teacher licensure. Contact the MAT program coordinators for details. Students interested in teaching in the fine arts or music may contact the Boston University College of Fine Arts.
Required Courses
- SED CT 575 General Methods of Instruction, 5–12
- SED DS 502 Introduction to Adolescent Development
- SED ED 500 Foundations of Educational Practices
- SED ED 501 Foundations of Educational Practice Lab
- SED SE 510 Special Education: Curriculum and Instruction
- SED RS 600 Perspectives on Inquiry
- One methods/curriculum course in the field of specialization
- Student-Teaching Practicum (8 semester credits)
- Four graduate courses (16 semester credits) in the academic field of specialization.
Please refer to the “Courses” section for a complete listing of courses in this program.
