Art of Teaching - Alternate Route
The MAT Alternate Route program is designed to provide an alternate path to teacher licensure in the state of Mississippi for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-teaching field. Through coursework and seminars students become familiar with education terminology, state standards, planning effective lessons, and strategies for assessing student progress, managing a classroom, and meeting the needs of diverse learners. During the internship portion of the program novice teachers benefit from an onsite mentor and a supervisor from the William Carey School of Education. Upon meeting all admission requirements, taking and passing the three initial courses, and completing the two trimesters of internship, students may choose to complete the MAT in one of three tracks-Elementary Education (Grades 4-6), Secondary Education (Specific Discipline 7-12), or Special Education (Mild/Moderate Disabilities K-12).
Ask about our new K-6 option!
Program Overview
Hours
The Alternate Route portion of the program (required for obtaining a standard Mississippi teaching license) is 15 hours. This includes nine hours of initial coursework and six additional hours of internship. Completion of the MAT is an additional 15 or 18 hours, depending on the chosen track.
Delivery Method
The three initial courses are taught either face-to-face or virtually each term. Because students are coming from non-education backgrounds, this delivery method is chosen in order to provide the much-needed one-on-one time with the instructor and ample opportunities for collaboration with other students entering the field of education. The remainder of the MAT courses beyond internship are offered online and include professional development seminars on some Saturdays.
Applicant Prerequisites & Requirements
Prospective students must:
Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
Complete an online application & pay application fee
Submit official copies of all transcripts to Graduate Admissions via eScript or mailed from the institution
Provide two recommendations from past or current supervisors
Provide documentation of ACT composite score of 21 or passing score on PRAXIS Core or a 3.0 GPA that includes the cumulative, core or last 60 hours
Provide documentation of passing score on PRAXIS II in the area candidate desires to teach
*Ask us about our new Pre-Alternate Route program that allows you to get started prior to the Praxis requirements being met and provides Praxis support.
Career Outlooks
Upon completion of the program, students will be eligible for Class A teaching licensure in the state of Mississippi and will be qualified to teach in one of three tracks (chosen during program participation): Elementary Education (Grades 4-6), Secondary Education (Specific Discipline 7-12), or Special Education (Mild-Moderate Disabilities K-12).
Your Future Starts Here
Join us on our journey towards shaping the future of education. Learn about our programs, ignite your passion for teaching, and embark on a rewarding career as a future educator. Your path to making a difference in the lives of students starts here.
Hattiesburg
WCU Box #3 | 710 William Carey Parkway | Hattiesburg, MS 39401
education@wmcarey.edu | (601) 318 - 6600
Tradition
19640 Highway 67 | Biloxi, MS 39532
education@wmcarey.edu | (228) 702 - 1842