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Advance Your Career in Education

Teaching is a rapidly evolving discipline, and entering the field today means stepping into classrooms that look very different from even a few years ago. As someone looking to specialize in elementary education or transitioning from another career, developing a strong foundation in current teaching theory and practice will give you the confidence and skill to support every learner in your classroom.

Rooted in a commitment to equity, inquiry and student-centered teaching, �鶹��ý’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education empowers you to launch a meaningful career in elementary schools, shaping the lives of young learners. Our program combines rigorous coursework, supervised field experiences and student teaching to prepare candidates to teach students in grades 1–6. Teaching candidates interested in expanding their expertise can take advantage of our Early Childhood Education and Middle Level endorsements that extend your preparation across Pre-K–8 classrooms.

Upon graduation, you’ll be able to offer your students high-quality instruction that will inspire a love of learning and begin your teaching career with a profound appreciation of the profession’s key values of scholarship, leadership and service. Plus, a master’s degree also opens doors to leadership roles, career advancement and, in many districts, automatic salary increases.

MAT in Elementary Education at a Glance

• Designed for aspiring elementary school teachers who already hold a bachelor’s degree 
• Earn a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree and recommendation for licensure in two years or less
• Hybrid program primarily offered online with in-person touchpoints and seminars 
• Approved by the Illinois State Board of Education 
• First four semesters include coursework and field experiences; final semester includes full-time student teaching experience and student teaching seminar 
• Optional endorsements in ESL or Bilingual Education 
• Join an alumnae/i network of �鶹��ý graduates who have been hired in a variety of schools across the state of Illinois 

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must: 

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution 
• Submit a  
• Meet all School of Education admission requirements 
• Meet Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) content-area and student teaching requirements 

Additional requirements may apply for candidates pursuing endorsements in ESL or Bilingual Education. 

Note: Admission to graduate and certificate programs in education is open only to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. 

What You’ll Learn

With a long-standing reputation for excellence in teacher education, �鶹��ý is the right place to earn your professional leadership credentials. Our coursework builds a strong foundation in literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, the arts and physical education while emphasizing equity and student-centered teaching. 

Through supervised field experiences embedded in your courses, you’ll learn to connect theory with practice, work effectively in diverse classroom settings and build the instructional skills needed for full-time student teaching. By the end of the program, you’ll be prepared to meet Illinois licensure requirements, confidently lead your own classroom and advocate for all learners as a reflective, culturally responsive educator. 

Sample Courses

• Exceptional Children: Characteristics and Methods for Supporting Learning in General Education 
• Literacy Development & Reading Methods 
• Methods of Teaching Mathematics 
• School & Society: Critical Issues in Education 

For more details, explore the . 

The �鶹��ý Difference

�鶹��ý’s School of Education is known for preparing committed, skilled teachers through programs that blend strong academic theory with hands-on classroom experience. You’ll work closely with dedicated faculty, gain the confidence to support diverse learners across many educational settings and learn alongside a vibrant cohort of future educators. We continue to innovate and develop new approaches to teaching and learning to better serve our country’s children and youth. We’ll help you achieve your goals and prepare you to navigate the changing world of education. We’re here to answer your questions and walk you through the process of gaining your MAT in Elementary Education.