Priority Application Submit Deadline
November 16, 2018
Final Application Submit Deadline
November 30, 2018
Class Start Date
January 14, 2019
Time to Completion
20 months
Overview
At American University, we’re proud of the ways our master’s in teaching program is different. We’re committed to training teachers who are dedicated to providing equitable education to all students, regardless of geography, race, sexuality, socioeconomic background, or learning challenges. Our focus on social justice is a core part of our program’s philosophy; we want to be absolutely certain that our graduates have the tools they need to turn learning differences into learning strengths and to ensure that future generations are equipped to address society’s most pressing concerns.
Our curriculum leverages advancements in neurodevelopment, social-emotional interventions, and a multidisciplinary approach to teaching STEM education—because we believe that only when all students are offered the opportunity to thrive will our society truly thrive.
Students enrolled in the master’s in teaching program will have access to American University’s cutting-edge research, engaging coursework, and crucial partnerships with academic institutions throughout Washington, DC. Under the guidance of our award-winning faculty, students will learn how to empower others to make a difference and make a lasting positive impact on communities in need. American University’s online MAT is CAEP-recognized and designed for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree and are interested in obtaining a teaching license in elementary education.
Program Highlights
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Earn your degree in 20 months
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Accredited locally by DC (OSSE) and nationally with CAEP
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Complete student teaching in your local area
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No previous training in education necessary
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Obtain over 600 hours of experience in a classroom setting
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Become part of a diverse network of talented students from all over the United States and more than 150 countries
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Learn to teach in-demand STEM skills
Curriculum
The education experts who have designed and currently run our master’s in teaching program understand that while grounding in a theoretical framework is an important part of training teachers, it’s hands-on experience in a real-life classroom setting that allows great future teachers to solidify their practical skills in various disciplines and excel in teaching STEM for elementary education (grades 1-6). For that reason, practical experience is an integral part of our online teaching program.
All students start with foundational online graduate courses for teachers, such as Theories of Educational Psychology and Human Development, and then go on to earn at least another 18 credit hours.
Student Stories
Emily H.
This year I'm working as an educational aide in a pre-k3 classroom at Hyde Addison Elementary in Georgetown. I'm doing my practicum and student teaching in my classroom. Being able to work while I complete these requirements and go to class at night has been really fantastic.
Matthew K.
After two school years as a partner teacher and student teacher at Mann, I was hired last spring (2014) to be the school's full-time science teacher. I have my own classroom and teach grades K-4 across the week.
Catalina R.
I am currently at K-1-2 classroom teacher at an independent school in Denver, Colorado called Stanley British Primary. In the future I see myself continuing to teach at the Early Childhood level! Not sure if that means continuing to teach where I'm at — or branching out to other types of schools! For now I am happy where I am.
Alumni & Outcomes
Our alumni are working to change the lives of students throughout the country and the world. Within six months of completing their programs, 100 percent of American University’s MAT graduates are working, continuing their education, or both.*
Our students channel their talents into a wide variety of career roles:
*American University does not guarantee employment after graduation.
What makes the online master’s in teaching unique?
American University’s master’s in teaching online program was built on the idea that a successful education system filled with exceptional teachers is at the heart of the fight for social justice.
Online master of arts in teaching students can expect an emphasis in cultural competency and diverse perspectives, an interesting and progressive curriculum, a focus on the STEM skills necessary for tomorrow’s most exciting careers, a focus on cultivating community among students (no matter where they might be based), and faculty members who are leaders in their fields and committed to social justice.
Who should choose this online teaching degree?
American University is looking for students who want to be teachers who change lives, empowering the next generation of change makers and ensuring that students have the tools to effectively transform their communities. Our online format will enable you to stay rooted in the community where you are as you work toward your degree—a factor that we know is often important to the active community members we tend to attract.
Without passionate, trained, progressive-minded, and dedicated teachers, our society simply cannot function to its democratic ideal. And teachers are currently in short supply in this country: according to the Learning Policy Institute, the United States faced a shortage of approximately 60,000 teachers in the 2015-16 school year. The lack of trained teachers is a real problem that we all face, but we believe that, with our students and talented graduates, we can rise to the challenge together. Help us be a part of the societal change we all want to see.
Information Webinar Sessions
Join the admissions team for an information session on our Master of Arts in Teaching program. Ask any questions you might have around the program, application process or requirements.
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Professional Licensure Disclaimer Statement
This program meets the requirements for professional teaching licensure in Elementary Education (Grades 1-6) in Washington D.C. American University cannot guarantee whether the program meets requirements for professional licensure in any other states. American University recommends that you consult with the appropriate licensing agency or board in the state or territory for which you seek to obtain licensure prior to beginning your course of study.
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