Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)

Students wishing teacher certification may major in any field for which they have a passion and take courses as electives that are pre-requisites for our one-year, accelerated "Master of Arts in Teaching" (M.A.T.) degree. Students will earn a B.A. degree in their major and a masters of arts in teaching upon completion of the M.A.T. program.

Certification programs exist for grades 1-6 and middle school. Certification for grades 7–12 are in English, math, social studies, biology, chemistry, physics, and modern languages. Art, music, and theater majors may also certify in their discipline for grades K-12. It is also possible for an individual to add certification in early childhood education to the elementary certificate. All of the teacher certification programs available through this MAT degree have full program approval from the Maryland State Department of Education and lead to reciprocity for certification in a majority of other states.

Application Process

The M.A.T. program begins on July 1 and concludes June 30 of the following year. Applicants must complete an application and return it by mail to the Admissions Office by October 1. The application includes:

• Official transcripts from ALL undergraduate institutions attended.
• An essay (topics and instructions may be found on the application).
• Official copies of scores on the PRAXIS pre-professional skills tests in reading, writing, and math (registration information may be found at www.ets.org). If you have not yet taken these PRAXIS tests, you may submit a copy of your registration form verifying your intent to take them.
• Two recommendations from faculty who have taught you in upper-division courses in your major. If it has been more than five years since you received your undergraduate degree and you are unable to solicit such letters, please contact the Chair of Educational Studies at azharle@smcm.edu for other options.
• One recommendation from someone who has supervised you in interactions with children/young adults.
• A check for $40 (non-refundable application fee payable to the Office of Admissions, St. Mary's College of Maryland).

Individuals who submit the completed application by the deadline and who meet all the requirements for admission will be invited to participate in a group interview on campus. Any questions or comments should be directed to the Office of Admissions at 1-800-492-7181 or at admissions@smcm.edu.

Download the MAT Application (PDF ~400 KB)

Download the Insert to the MAT Paper Application *Required* (PDF ~100 KB)

Visit the SMCM Educational Studies Web Site