Master of Arts in Teaching
The Master of Arts in Teaching program is designed for aspiring K–12 teachers looking to develop the skills to become effective educators.
Learn more about the online Master of Arts in Teaching program for current and aspiring teachers from the University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education.
Course Curriculum
Explore the course curriculum
Provide in-depth knowledge in sociological and psychological theories and their application in the classroom. Foundations modules also introduce participants to the latest strategies for infusing technology into instruction.
These series of modules lay the foundation for teaching linguistically and ethnically diverse students in urban and high-needs schools. Modules prepare participants to understand and demonstrate their expertise in the areas of curriculum, pedagogy, assessment, environment, advocacy, critical thinking and discourse, and reflection and inquiry.
These modules aim to ground participants in the theories of language and literacy for both primary and second language learners. Language and literacy issues are at the forefront of educational reform efforts nationally and globally.
Participants in the MAT program integrate fieldwork throughout their program. Participants are placed in local classrooms in which they not only observe but also apply what they learn in the MAT program in real-life classroom settings. Beginning teachers will demonstrate skills by completing Guided Practice, our version of student teaching, under the mentorship of a Guiding Teacher. Experienced teachers will demonstrate their knowledge and skills developed throughout the program with the completion of a comprehensive Capstone project.
Reviews
I chose USC Rossier because I knew how much of an honor it would be to join the Trojan Family. After I received my acceptance letter, I was undoubtedly overflowing with emotion and a sense of pride. The decision was quite simple.
I was hired to teach 10th and 11th grade social science at the school where I'm currently finishing my guided practice. I feel extremely grateful for the positioning, preparation and confidence that USC Rossier gave me to compete for the job - and then for the support, skills and practices to sustain me through my first years as a professional educator.
The MAT has absolutely inspired me to not only get into those classrooms and do the best I can do, but constantly improve the experience and make sure that students are getting what they deserve. It’s extremely challenging, but every bit of it has helped make me a better teacher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree. Successful applicants typically have a GPA of 3.0 or above.
For master’s degree programs such as the Masters in Teaching and Masters in TESOL, professional work experience in your field of interest is not required. USC Rossier’s PhD in Education program requires applicants to have at least three to five years of full-time professional work and leadership experience.
Request more information on the application process here.
The online master’s degree programs maintain the same selective admissions standards as the school’s on-campus programs. Applications must include the following:
- Online application
- Application fee
- Official transcripts
- Personal essays
- Letters of recommendation
- Current resume or CV
A word processor is required when taking the course as you will need to download materials and submit assignments.
The course is compatible with most electronic devices. While the recommended device is a laptop or desktop, the course can be accessed via a browser on most smartphones and tablets.
Enrollment
USC Rossier's programs feature a blend of live, face-to-face online class sessions, self-paced coursework, and hands-on field-based teaching experiences. The programs are composed of live, online classes which allow students to network with classmates around the world in an intimate, collaborative environment. The course also includes hands-on field work which students complete in their own communities or classrooms.
Check with your district and state licensure requirements as the certificate may satisfy these requirements.
Each program follows an academically rigorous curriculum designed and delivered by USC Rossier faculty members.
Request more information on tuition and payment process here.
Request more information on program costs here.
For more information on financial aid, departmental grants and long-term financing options, contact USC's Financial Aid Office.
*Bachelor's degree, 3.0 GPA or higher, a Statement of Purpose that indicating professional career goals and completion of a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for candidates whose academic work has been in a country other than the US, UK, Australia or English-speaking Canada.
