MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING (MAT) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here are the frequently asked questions about Muskingum’s Master of Arts in Teaching program for individuals aspiring to become a teacher.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

What is the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program?

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at Muskingum University is a graduate program designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field and want to become a licensed teacher in Ohio.

This program allows career changers to earn a master’s degree and initial Ohio teaching license at the same time. The MAT combines flexible online coursework, hands-on classroom field experiences, and a full-time student teaching semester that meets Ohio licensure requirements.

When can I enroll in the MAT program?

You can apply to the MAT program year-round. New students may begin coursework at the start of any eight-week term, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

What’s the difference between the MAT and MAE programs?

MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching): Designed for individuals who are not yet licensed teachers and want to enter the teaching profession.
MAE (Master of Arts in Education): Intended for currently licensed teachers seeking endorsements, additional licenses, or a master’s degree.

If you are changing careers and do not yet hold a teaching license, the MAT is the correct pathway.

ADMISSION & ELIGIBILITY

What are the admission requirements for the MAT program?

To apply for Muskingum’s MAT program, you must have:

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.67 (conditional admission may be available)
Two professional recommendations from individuals who can speak to your potential as an educator
A Pre-Service Teacher Permit from the State of Ohio (completed during the admissions process with advisor support)

Can I apply if I am already a licensed teacher?

No. The MAT program is specifically designed for career changers who are not licensed teachers. If you already hold an Ohio teaching license, you may be eligible for Muskingum’s Master of Arts in Education (MAE) program.

APPLICATION PROCESS

How do I apply to the MAT program?

Applications must be completed at least one week before the start of the term. You will need to submit:

Official college transcripts through the online application
Two professional recommendations
A copy of your Ohio Pre-Service Teacher Permit

APPLY ONLINE

What is a Pre-Service Teacher Permit and how do I get one?

A Pre-Service Teacher Permit is required by the State of Ohio to begin teacher preparation coursework. Your Muskingum admissions advisor will walk you through the entire process, including required steps and timelines.

PROGRAM DETAILS

How long does it take to complete the MAT program?

Program length varies by licensure area and whether you attend full-time or part-time. Estimated completion times include:

Primary Education (P–5): 16–20 months
Middle Childhood Education: 16–20 months
Adolescent & Young Adult Education: 12–16 months
Intervention Specialist Mild/Moderate (K–12): 16–20 months
Intervention Specialist Moderate/Intensive (K–12): 16–20 months
Blended License (Primary P–5 + Intervention Specialist): 20–28 months

Some Middle Childhood and Adolescent & Young Adult pathways may require additional content coursework.

How many credit hours are required?

Credit hour requirements vary by licensure area:

Primary P–5: 53 credits
Middle Childhood: 47 credits
Adolescent & Young Adult: 38 credits
Intervention Specialist Mild/Moderate: 49 credits
Intervention Specialist Moderate/Intensive: 47 credits
Blended License: 64 credits

What is the course load like?

Most students complete 6–15 credit hours per semester, or approximately 2–5 courses, depending on personal schedule and enrollment status.

Can I attend the MAT program part-time?

Yes. The MAT program is designed for flexibility during coursework. However, the student teaching semester requires a full-time commitment.

LEARNING EXPERIENCE

How is the MAT curriculum structured?

The MAT program includes three core components:

Online Coursework: Asynchronous, eight-week courses delivered through Canvas with no required meeting times
Field Experiences: Multiple supervised classroom experiences throughout the program
Student Teaching: A full-time, 12-week classroom placement required for Ohio licensure

What technology do I need?

Students need a reliable computer, consistent internet access, and the ability to use the Canvas learning management system.

Where are field experiences and student teaching placements located?

Field experiences and student teaching placements are arranged in school districts near your location in coordination with Muskingum’s Field Coordinator. Student teaching placements occur only during Fall or Spring semesters and require full-time participation.

Can I work while enrolled in the MAT program?

Many students continue working during the online coursework and field experience phases. However, working during the student teaching semester is strongly discouraged due to the full-time classroom commitment.

TUITION & FINANCIAL AID

What is the cost of the MAT program?

Tuition is $595 per credit hour. Muskingum University is committed to providing a high-quality, affordable pathway to becoming a teacher.

What financial aid options are available?

MAT students may be eligible for:

Federal financial aid
Flexible payment plans
Employer tuition reimbursement (for those working in education-related roles)
Federal TEACH Grant for students preparing to teach in high-need fields or low-income schools

ACCREDITATION & LICENSURE

Is Muskingum’s MAT program accredited?

Yes. Muskingum University’s education programs are:

Accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
Approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education Office of Educator Preparation

Master of Arts Teaching