Teaching and Learning, MATL

Program Description

The Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning (MATL) degree engages practicing teachers in serious, sustained, and quality discussions about teaching, learning, and the public schools. The degree is based on what teachers want: ideas, tools, strategies, knowledge, and understandings that make them better at what they do; space to work on their craft individually; and, opportunities to talk with colleagues about what is really important in their particular classrooms, schools, and communities. Please note: The MATL degree does not prepare (or certify) teachers to work as building principals.

The bulk of this degree (18 credit hours) is delivered on-site in a two-year cohort model. Teachers enrolled in this degree will meet with teacher colleagues enrolled in the Specialist in Education, Teacher Leadership (SETL) degree. Cohorts will identify common needs or concerns, deepen collaboration, and strengthen supportive collegial relationships. Degrees feature an inquiry project-based approach via an action research framework.

Each student will choose an emphasis or elective area (12 credit hours-with a wide range of options) and will have direct sustained involvement with MSU Education faculty.

Some MATL students go on to take our Specialist in Education, Teacher Leadership degree. There is an Accelerated Pathway for such students. See a description of this pathway in the Graduate Catalog, under Specialist in Education, Teacher Leadership.

Program Entrance Requirements

To be admitted to the degree program, the student must complete the application process through the Grad CAS system and submit all official college transcripts as well as a written statement including reasons for pursuing the program, including desired professional goals.

Degree Requirements

Course Requirements - Credit Hours: 33

Courses may count only once in meeting the 33 hours program course requirements.

Required Professional Learning Community Courses - Credit Hours: 18 (No transfer courses allowed)

First Year (On-Site, cohort based) - Credit Hours: 10

Second Year (On-Site, cohort based) - Credit Hours: 8

Additional Required Course - Credit Hours: 3

EDC 704 - Teaching and Learning V: Research Seminar

Emphasis/Elective Area - Credit Hours: 12

Students will work with the Program Coordinator to choose an Emphasis Area or series of elective courses totaling 12 credit hours.

Comprehensive Examination

A comprehensive examination must be passed by the candidate before a degree will be granted. The major advisor is primarily responsible for working with faculty members to develop and evaluate the comprehensive examination.