Degree Information

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program prepares teachers to meet the challenges of diverse learners in 21st century classrooms. Teacher candidates participate in clinically rich coursework in a variety of learning environments in urban and suburban settings. Faculty-mentors encourage our future teachers to build their professional networks to successfully transition into the classroom.

Drew’s program leads to an MAT degree with certification to teach in elementary or secondary education. We prepare secondary education teachers in English, math, science, social studies, world languages and the arts. Candidates can complete the program in one year of full-time study or over the course of two years. Students seeking elementary K-6 certification may be eligible to apply for middle school certification in addition to this endorsement.

Combined-Degree Option

Drew undergraduates can enroll in the BA/MAT track, taking four courses in their junior and senior years. This path makes candidates eligible to pursue a dual certification in special education or English as a Second Language in their fifth year.

Dual Endorsements

MAT candidates have the option to pursue dual certification in special education or English as a Second Language by adding an additional 12 credits to their coursework. These endorsements can be earned online. Certified teachers can also earn an endorsement in Teacher of Students with Disabilities (21 credits) or Teaching English as a Second Language (18 credits).

Step-by-Step Paths to Completing Your Program

The MAT program’s courses are sequenced logically over three semesters (summer, fall, and spring) to develop the knowledge and skills needed for teaching in New Jersey public schools. University courses are blended with fieldwork to offer a clinically-rich experience that provides hands-on learning.

The Master of Arts in Teaching (36 credits, plus fieldwork) offers two scheduling options: one-year (full-time) or two-year track. The program requires fieldwork in all phases of study:

• Clinical experiences in preliminary coursework taken during the summer session
• Two days per week of Clinical Practice (about 210 hours)
• Full-time classroom internship during Clinical Practice II in the spring semester

*Applicants to the Secondary Education track of the MAT program must have 30 credits or a major in the subject area in which they are seeking certification and meet all other state required content prerequisites.

*** In lieu of Praxis® Core Academic Skills for Educators scores students may submit SAT, GRE or ACT test results. For details on qualifying GRE, SAT and ACT scores, please refer to the New Jersey Department of Education Exemption sheet. Applications can be reviewed for Conditional Admission without passing Praxis® Core Academic Skills for Educators and/or Praxis® Subject Assessments scores.