Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) - 45 hours
The Master of Arts in Teaching (45 hours) degree program is designed for the purpose of initial teacher licensure.
Purpose
The Master of Arts in Teaching 45-hour program is designed to prepare educators who model high academic, moral, and spiritual standards. This program gives teacher candidates with a bachelor’s degree the opportunity to earn a Virginia teaching license and a master’s degree with additional courses for approved electives or Content Competencies not already required by the degree. Graduates will be prepared to successfully teach and lead in Christian, public, and private schools.Program Learning Outcomes
A graduate of the Master of Arts in Teaching (45 hours) program:
- Knows Biblical values, moral dimensions, and ethical implications synthesized with academic knowledge
- Implements skills as a gift from God, because teaching/leadership is a calling from God
- Believes and practices personal integrity, social responsibility, sensitivity to the needs of others, and the betterment of humanity
- 1a.The candidate formulates knowledge of learner development, learning differences, and learning environments. (InTASC Domain 1 The learner and learning )
- 1b. The candidate demonstrates knowledge of the literature of the discipline area and the application of content to connect concepts and engage learners. (InTASC Domain 2 Content)
- 2a. The candidate plans instruction using multiple methods of assessment and instructional strategies to develop a deep understanding of the content for all learners. (InTASC Domain 3 Instructional practice)
- 3a. The candidate develops a Biblical worldview and professional responsibility through ongoing reflection and professional development experiences where opportunities are provided for leadership and collaboration with stakeholders.(InTASC Domain 4 Professional responsibility)
- 4a. The candidate uses evidence-based practices and knowledge of pedagogical theory in all content areas to assess, plan, and teach K-12 students.
Program Specific Admission Requirements
In addition to the general admission procedures, specific admission requirements for the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) 45-hours program are:
- Earned baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (e.g., SACSCOC, TRACS, ABHE, etc.).
- GPA of at least a 2.50 on a 4.00 scale (cautionary admission is an option if the candidate has at least a 2.00).
- TOEFL Scores for candidates who speak English as a second language (score of 600 paper–based test; 250 computer-based test, 80 internet-based test).
Transfer of Credit
All graduate transfer credits are subject to the approval of the School of Education (SOE) Graduate Committee. Such courses must carry a grade of at least a B- and be comparable to Liberty University graduate courses. Transfer credit will only be considered from institutions or schools accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. With approval, up to 18 hours may be transferred into the M.A.T. programs. It is the responsibility of each applicant to supply official transcripts along with a written request to have credit applied to the degree program. Transfer credits must have been completed within the previous ten (10) years.
Credits from a prior degree on the same academic level earned through Liberty University are considered transfer credits.
Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) 45-hour Cognates
- Elementary Education
- Middle Grades Education
- Secondary Education
- Special Education
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Courses | 12 | |
| Cognate Courses | 12 | |
| Elective Courses | 9 | |
| Professional Courses | 12 | |
| Total Hours | 45 | |
Note: Candidates seeking licensure as secondary teachers should have completed a bachelor’s degree with a major in the intended endorsement area, or a degree in a related field with courses similar to that required for a bachelor’s degree in the field of study. Any deficiencies in course requirements must be addressed prior to student teaching. See Content Competencies for subject area. In addition, candidates must successfully complete the appropriate Subject Assessment content exam in the area of endorsement prior to student teaching.
Candidates seeking licensure at the middle school level should have completed a bachelor’s degree with a strong background in one or more of the following four subject areas: English, History/Social Science, Mathematics, or Science. Any deficiencies in course requirements must be addressed prior to student teaching. [See Content Competencies for elementary/middle education.] In addition, candidates must successfully complete the appropriate Praxis Subject Assessment middle school content exam in the area(s) of endorsement prior to student teaching.