Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary Education (7-12/K-12)
The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program at The W is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to become licensed teachers through an alternate-route program. This program provides the coursework and classroom experience needed to move into the teaching profession with confidence.
The MAT is a flexible, affordable program that can be completed in as few as four semesters. Coursework is offered online with advising support to create an individualized plan of study.
Why Choose an MAT Program at The W?
- Designed for career changers or those with degrees in other fields
- Affordable tuition and online course delivery
- Licensure in high-demand elementary and secondary subject areas
- Faculty support and advising throughout the program
- Clear licensure pathway with a Class AA Master’s-level Educator License upon completion of graduate work
Admissions Requirements
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- At least 2.75/4.0 GPA
- Passing ACT/Praxis Core scores required for a GPA of 2.75-2.99
- 3 references for letters of recommendation
- Passing score on an approved Praxis II licensure exam (see below for more information)
You may be conditionally admitted to the MAT: Secondary Education program before passing the required licensure exams. Please speak with an advisor for details.
Approved Praxis II Subject Area Assessments
To be fully admitted to the MAT: Secondary Education program, candidates must pass an approved Praxis II subject-area assessment from the following options:
- Art: Content Knowledge (K-12), Test 5134
- Biology (7-12), Test 5236
- Business Education: Content Knowledge: Test 5101
- Chemistry (7-12), Test 5246
- Economics (7-12), Test 5911
- English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (7-12), Test 5038
- Health Education (7-12), Test 5551
- Marketing Education (7-12), Test 5561
- Mathematics (7-12), Test 5165
- Music: Content Knowledge (K-12), Test 5113
- Physical Education: Content Knowledge (K-12), Test 5091
- Physics (7-12), Test 5266
- Social Studies (7-12), Test 5581
- Spanish: World Language, Test 5195
- Speech Communication: Content Knowledge (7-12), Test 5221
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the MAT program are prepared for:
- Classroom Teaching: Licensed teacher, with full state benefits and retirement.
- Private & Independent Schools: Teaching roles across grade levels and subject areas.
- Future Growth: Graduate-level professional development, endorsements, or doctoral study.
Licensure Progression
- After admission and completion of initial licensure coursework: 3-year, non-renewable Class A Mississippi Educator License
- After completing Internship requirements: 5-year, renewable Class A Mississippi Educator License
- After earning the master’s degree: 5-year, renewable Class AA Mississippi Educator License
“The teachers at MUW are world-class. They are committed to
their students’ success and provide resources to support it.” ~2024 MAT Graduate
Plan of Study
Initial Licensure Courses (9 credit hours):
- ED 538 Diversity & Inclusion in the Educational Setting
- ED 549 Instructional Assessment Practices & Procedures
- ED 551 Managing the Instructional Environment
Internship Courses (6 credit hours):
- ED 697 Internship in Master of Arts in Teaching
- ED 697 Internship in Master of Arts in Teaching
Additional Courses for Degree Completion (18 credit hours):
- ED 500 Educational Research
- ED 503 Instructional Technology
- ED 523 Early Literacy I
- ED 524 Early Literacy II
- ED 527 Integrating Reading & Writing Across the Curriculum
- ED 564 Diagnosing & Assessing Reading Difficulties in Children
Zero-Credit Requirements:
- ED 590 MAT Graduate Portfolio
- ED 591 MAT Graduate Comprehensive Exam
The W Difference
The W offers one of the most affordable and flexible MAT programs in Mississippi. Our combination of online coursework, personalized advising, and a mentorship ensures that career changers are well-prepared to enter the teaching profession and stay where they are needed most.
Contact Us
Have questions about admissions or licensure? Connect with our program navigator, Christi Dillon, for step-by-step guidance.
education@muw.edu