MA in Teaching - Elementary Education in Irvine United States | University of California Irvine

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program allows students to earn both a master's degree in education and a teaching credential for single or multiple subjects within 14 months. The Single Subject Credential track equips graduates to instruct subjects like social studies, math, English, sciences, arts, or foreign languages in middle or high schools. Meanwhile, the Multiple Subject Credential prepares educators to teach all subjects across elementary grade levels. Participants complete a yearlong teaching apprenticeship, putting into practice the instructional methods and theories learned during coursework.

The multiple subject program's curriculum and fieldwork are structured around five foundational principles: content-area instruction, equity, student development, reflective practice, and educational leadership. Content-area teaching presents unique demands for multiple subject candidates, who must master diverse disciplines and grade levels. To address this, the MAT program offers specialized training, including dedicated math and science methodology courses, plus interdisciplinary classes combining arts education and social studies with information literacy. Equity-focused coursework teaches candidates to adapt instruction for diverse classrooms, including students with special needs and English learners, while field placements provide hands-on experience designing inclusive curricula. Both classes and fieldwork help educators understand Learning Processes by exploring how social, cultural, and developmental factors influence education. A three-quarter course sequence develops reflective teaching practices, guiding candidates to analyze classroom challenges, formulate research questions, and complete field-based projects. Leadership development permeates the program, emphasizing professional collaboration, innovative teaching approaches, and advocacy in education.