Master of Arts in Teaching
On this page:
Pedagogy Only Degree Program
The Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education (MATSE) is a hybrid, pedagogy-only degree program designed for bachelor’s degree holders seeking initial certification in a secondary teaching field, grades 6-12. The program is not intended for those who hold a teaching certificate.
Students in the MAT in secondary education degree program complete coursework in research-based pedagogies and a year-long student teaching experience (if not teacher of record) or year-long clinical experience (if teacher of record) at a middle (6-8) or high (9-12) school.
Program Goals
- Advanced planning for and application of content, pedagogy and pedagogical content knowledge
- Strengthening professional dispositions, critical reflection and collaboration.
Hybrid and Accelerated
GGC's MATSE program is comprised primarily of online synchronous coursework with periodic in-person sessions. Program completion is under 18 months – four semesters – spring, summer, fall, spring.
Teaching Certification Areas
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Earth / space science
- Economics
- English
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Political science
- Science (broad field)
Cohort Model
The MATSE operates as a cohort model, with candidates taking prescribed coursework each semester.
Candidates who begin the program in the same semester complete each semester of coursework together.
Who Should Apply
- College graduates with a bachelor’s degree in a secondary teaching field
- Career changers
- Veterans
- Provisionally certified Georgia teachers (hired but not yet fully certified)
- Teachers currently teaching out-of-field
- Students in their final semester at GGC earning a BA/BS in a secondary certification area
Clinical Experience
Teacher of Record
Students who hold a provisional certificate and are the teacher-of-record in a teaching position that aligns with their area of certification and grade band (i.e., content AND a 6-12 classroom) complete their fieldwork in their own classroom for the four-semester online program. Students are also responsible for completing observational hours in additional grade bands.
Not a Teacher of Record
Students who do not hold a teaching position complete their clinical experience alongside a certified mentor teacher. Students are also responsible for completing observational hours in additional grade bands.
Next Steps
Get information about graduate program admission and costs.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) so your application is on file if federal aid eligibility or funding opportunities become available.