A master’s degree in teaching can qualify teachers for better jobs, increase their earning potential and equip them with the tools needed to be effective educators in the classroom. That said, prospective students are often deterred by the added cost of a graduate program, and not to mention, the additional time in school.
The good news is Sacred Heart University offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) graduate program that allows undergraduate students to earn their initial teaching certification for the state of Connecticut and a master’s in teaching at the same time. Students in this program are able to complete all of the above in just one additional year of school compared to traditional master's degree programs.
A one-year master’s degree has a condensed format that allows students to finish in as little as twelve months, instead of the standard two years.
For potential teachers, the one-year MAT program (offered within the Five-Year Education program at SHU) is especially beneficial. Not only does an accelerated teaching degree allow you to save time and money, students in SHU’s Five-Year Education program will graduate with their initial teaching certification, too.
A Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) focuses on developing practical skills and subject-specific knowledge in future educators. Traditionally, the MAT degree takes two years to complete after students earn a bachelor’s degree in an academic field.
Through SHU’s accelerated program, you’ll gain knowledge on the most up-to-date teaching methods from instructors with real-word, public-school experience and will be able to apply your knowledge through class-based practicum or the optional school-based experience, all in less time.
Students who participate in the Five-Year program are able to focus their initial four years on subject-specific knowledge through a bachelor’s degree in an academic subject. They are then able to focus on pedagogy and teaching skills while participating in a school-based internship during their final graduate year.
Candidates may apply for admission to the Five-Year program by January 15th of their sophomore year of undergrad. They will take seven courses that can be applied toward initial teacher certification during junior and senior year.
During their fifth year, they will complete the initial certification requirements, along with the requirements for the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree. Also during the fifth year, candidates will serve as interns in public schools for a full school year. Participation in the school based experience will cover the tuition of 30 graduate credits.
For undergraduate students who hope to become teachers, the Five-Year program is the perfect way to earn your initial teaching certification and a master’s in teaching without spending two extra years in school.
If you would like to learn more about accelerated MAT program at SHU, or about any of the other accelerated Master’s programs offered, we invite you to explore A Guide to SHU’s One Year Master's Programs and Accelerated Graduate Degrees — it will help you decide if an accelerated master’s degree is right for you.