MA in Teaching in Edwardsville United States | Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program is designed for individuals holding bachelor's degrees in non-education fields, enabling them to obtain both a graduate degree and K-12 special education certification. This accelerated two-year pathway leads to state teaching credentials while delivering comprehensive instruction on diverse student needs through combined academic study and hands-on classroom practice. Offered by the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior's Department of Teaching and Learning, the MAT curriculum qualifies participants for Learning Behavior Specialist I certification - equipping educators to support students with various challenges including learning differences, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, emotional/behavioral needs, and physical health conditions. Note: This program excludes applicants with prior teacher education backgrounds. Given the national shortage of special education professionals, particularly in Illinois, MAT alumni enjoy strong job prospects with certification to instruct students with disabilities from kindergarten through young adulthood (age 21).