TeachMS

Teaching Pathways

Master of Arts in Teaching

Participants complete a mix of coursework and a supervised teaching internship, allowing them to work full-time in the classroom as they complete their certification. It’s a great option for aspiring educators who want both licensure and a master’s degree in one streamlined program.

License Details

Requirements

You’re eligible for the MAT Pathway if you:

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree (non-education) from a regionally or nationally accredited institution
  • Meet one of the following:
    • 21 ACT score (or SAT equivalent)
    • Passing score on the Praxis Core
    • 3.0 GPA (overall or on last 60 hours of coursework)
  • Pass the appropriate Praxis Subject Assessment
  • Are accepted into an approved MAT program
  • Complete 9 credit hours of pre-teaching courses through the MAT program

Once you complete these steps, you can apply for a Three-Year Alternate Route License.

Approved Subjects

The MAT Pathway covers a wide range of subjects for grades 7–12, including:

  • Elementary Education Subjects
    • 4–6 or K–6
  • K-12 Subjects
    • Art
    • Health
    • Languages
      • Chinese
      • French
      • German
      • Latin
      • Spanish
    • Library Media
    • Music
    • Physical Education
    • Special Education
  • Secondary Education Subjects
    • Biology
    • Business
    • Chemistry
    • Computer Science*
    • Economics
    • English
    • Home Economics
    • Marketing
    • Mathematics
    • Physics
    • Social Studies
    • Speech Communications

*Note: Mississippi State University is currently the only school approved to offer Computer Science through the MAT Pathway.

License Duration

  • The initial MAT license is valid for 3 years.
  • During this time, you’ll be completing coursework and gaining classroom experience.

Once you’re teaching and complete the next phase of your program, you can upgrade to a standard renewable license. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A teaching position
  • 6 additional credit hours, including a supervised internship
  • Program completion verification
  • Apply for the Five-Year Alternate Route Educator License

Restrictions

  • Candidates are required to complete three courses before receiving a three-year non-renewable license.
  • Candidates may then convert to a five-year renewable license following completion of their year-long internship.

Mississippi MAT Programs

Next Steps

To learn more about this Alternate Route program visit the Mississippi Department of Education.

VISIT MDE