Master of Arts in Teaching

African-American teacher working one-on-one with African-American student

If you’re looking for a career change and are interested in becoming a teacher, the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) could be the answer.

Teachers are in demand

Teaching could not only be a rewarding career for you personally, but also could fill a great need for teachers throughout Texas and the nation. Reports indicate the national teacher shortage is growing larger. In Texas, the state education agency has identified teacher shortage areas — most of which are options in both the MAT and Certification-only programs — as well as loan forgiveness opportunities.

MAT Degree Program

If you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education, you can gain initial teacher certification and earn a graduate degree at the same time. The MAT degree meets teacher certification standards set by the Texas State Board for Educator Certification and is accredited by the Texas Education Agency.

TWU provides a high-quality education within a flexible framework in the MAT program, enabling you to balance demands of both your personal and professional life. The MAT is highly flexible to meet student's needs. There are options to take courses in a hybrid model or even fully online.

All courses are taught by faculty members who have years of experience in every aspect of teaching. The program produces teachers who have strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills by focusing on:

  • Multiple roles of a teacher as a researcher/scholar/practitioner
  • Theory- and research-based practices for curriculum and instruction
  • Increased content knowledge needed for instruction
  • Applying appropriate technology in education
  • Assessment of teaching and learning
  • Socio-cultural and learning differences among students
  • Collaborative leadership to improve schools

Program of Study and Admission Requirements

MAT Degree Plan
Master of Arts in Teaching Handbook

Certification

Colleges and universities recommend individuals for teacher certification, but certification is granted by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Requirements for initial teacher certification in Texas include earning a baccalaureate degree, completing an approved educator preparation program, passing a minimum of two examinations — one in content and one that covers instruction and professional responsibilities (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibility exams) — and being recommended by an approved educator preparation program.

The teacher certification process in Texas is an online system; paper applications are not accepted. Please note: It is your responsibility to apply for certification through TEA. It cannot be initiated by the university. This should be done toward the end of your final semester in the MAT program, just prior to graduation.

Visit our certifications page for a complete list of available initial teacher certifications offered at TWU.

Initial teacher and professional certifications

Contact

Jean Ann Joest, PhD
MAT/PBITC Program Director
940-898-2258 
MAT@twu.edu 

Page last updated 1:22 PM, March 21, 2025