A Master of Arts in Teaching program is a program designed for those who already have a bachelor’s degree who want to work as teachers. Depending on where you live, your state may require that you go back to school and earn a higher degree before you can get your permanent or full license. These programs are slightly different than Master of Education programs and come in different types to help those currently working as teachers fit in their classes around their schedules.
How Long These Programs Take
One thing you may want to know before enrolling is how long it will take to finish a Master of Arts in Teaching program. The typical rule of thumb is around two years of full-time study. Those enrolling on a part-time basis may take as long as four years or a little over three years to finish. As a full-time student, you might take three or more classes every semester. Part-time students can take just one class or two classes each semester. Some programs require that you spend an extra year working in the fieldwork, especially if your bachelor’s degree is in another field.
Classes You Take
Many of the classes that you’ll take help you learn effective ways of managing your classroom and working with your student. Classes on instruction go over some of the methods that teachers use and help you practice those methods to determine which one works best for your own students. You’ll also take courses on teaching psychology. Many of the top teaching programs include a one-year internship that you’ll do after finishing your classes. You keep track of some of the work that you did in a portfolio that you show at the end of the year. This portfolio acts like a thesis.
Choosing a Specialization
Depending on the graduate school that you pick, you may have the chance to select a specialization within your field. The two more common types of specializations include elementary school education and secondary school education. A specialization in elementary school education trains you on how to work with students ranging in age from kindergarten through middle school. A specialization in secondary education will focus more on teaching students in junior high and high school. Some colleges also offer specializations in specific areas of instruction such as music education or math education.
Other Types of Teaching Programs
When looking at Master of Arts in Teaching programs, consider looking at professional flex programs. a flex program includes online courses and some classes that meet on campus. A professional teaching program may include shorter eight-week classes that you can better fit in around your schedule. According to Teach.org, some students may prefer a Master in Education program, which focuses more on educational systems. These programs usually have concentrations or specializations available in school counseling, curriculum development and design and educational administration. One of these programs can prepare you for working as a textbook designer, counselor or principal.
Related Resource: 5 Websites for Curriculum and Instruction
Getting your bachelor’s degree in a teaching field will let you work as a teacher in most states, but you may need to go back to school later. Many states require that teachers finish a Master of Arts in Teaching within a few years of starting their careers, and one of these degrees can help you earn more too.