For aspiring educators or those considering a career change to teaching, the decision to pursue advanced education can feel overwhelming. One of the most common options is a Master’s in Teaching (MAT). But what exactly is it, how is it different from a Master’s in Education, and is it worth the investment?

In this blog, we’ll answer frequently asked questions about a Masters in Teaching, explore its benefits, and explain how City Teaching Alliance helps you earn this valuable degree while gaining hands-on experience in the classroom.

WHAT IS A MASTER’S IN TEACHING?

A Master’s in Teaching (MAT) is a graduate-level degree designed to prepare individuals for careers in education. The program focuses on developing practical teaching skills and in-depth knowledge of pedagogy, equipping students to succeed in today’s classrooms.

Unlike other graduate degrees, such as a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.), the MAT emphasizes hands-on training and teaching strategies that can be directly applied in the classroom. If you’re looking to enhance your expertise as a teacher while fulfilling certification requirements, an MAT might be the right choice for you.

What’s the Difference Between a Master’s in Teaching and a Master’s in Education?

While both degrees cater to professionals in the education field, they serve different purposes:

• Master’s in Teaching (MAT):
  • Focuses on teaching methods, classroom management, and subject-specific instruction. Ideal for individuals who want to become or remain career educators.
• Master’s in Education (M.Ed.):
  • Focuses on broader topics like educational leadership, policy, and administration. Suitable for those looking to transition into roles such as school administrators or curriculum developers.

If your goal is to work directly with students in the classroom, the MAT is a more targeted and practical option.

WHAT CAN I TEACH WITH A MASTER’S IN TEACHING?

One of the key benefits of earning an MAT is the flexibility it provides in terms of subject matter and grade levels. With this graduate degree, you will have in-depth pedagogical skills to teach:

• Elementary Education: Prepare young learners with foundational skills in reading, writing, and math.
• Secondary Education: Specialize in subjects like math, science, history, or English for middle and high school students.
• Special Education: Support students with unique learning needs in inclusive or specialized settings.
• ESL (English as a Second Language): Help non-native speakers improve their English proficiency.

An MAT allows you to tailor your career to your passions and strengths, making it a versatile choice for aspiring educators.

HOW DOES AN MAT HELP ME BECOME A LEADER IN EDUCATION?

If you’re considering staying in the education space, you might be wondering about your career options outside of a classroom teacher. While the MAT is more focused on classroom teaching, it still opens doors to roles like:

• School or district administrator: Oversees the operations of schools or entire districts. They manage budgets, support teachers, and ensure policies are implemented effectively to create a positive learning environment for students.
• Curriculum developer: Designs educational programs and materials. They research best practices, create lesson plans, and align content with state standards to support teachers and improve student outcomes.
• Educational consultant: Works with schools, districts, or organizations to improve teaching practices and student achievement. They provide expert advice on curriculum, technology integration, and professional development.
• Instructional coordinator: Ensures teaching standards are met by developing training programs and evaluating classroom materials. They collaborate with teachers and administrators to improve the quality of education.
• Education policy advocate: Focuses on shaping and improving education systems. They work with lawmakers, communities, and organizations to promote policies that enhance educational access and equity for all students.

Both M.Ed. and MAT degrees are valuable, but having classroom experience and proven student achievement results will make you a competitive candidate for leadership positions.

IS A MASTER’S IN TEACHING WORTH IT?

The short answer is yes, especially if you’re passionate about teaching and want to excel in the classroom. Here’s why an MAT is worth the investment:

• Enhanced Teaching Skills: Gain practical, research-backed methods to improve your effectiveness as an educator and accelerate student achievement.
• Career Advancement: Many school districts offer higher salaries and leadership opportunities to teachers with advanced degrees.
• Classroom Readiness: MAT programs include student teaching experiences, ensuring you’re fully prepared to lead your own classroom.
• Credentialing: For those new to teaching, an MAT often compliments state certification requirements, allowing you to step into the classroom as a teacher of record.

DO I NEED A MASTER’S DEGREE TO TEACH?

The requirements for teaching vary by state. In some states, you can begin teaching with a bachelor’s degree and later pursue a master’s for additional qualifications. In others, an MAT or similar degree may be required upfront.

Even if it’s not mandatory, earning an MAT can make you a stronger candidate for teaching positions and help you stand out in competitive districts.

WHERE CAN YOU GET A MASTER’S IN TEACHING?

MAT programs are available at many universities, but are rarely attached to partnerships with teaching organizations. That’s not the case with City Teaching Alliance.

As part of our teaching pathway, we have a partnership with AMERICAN UNIVERSITY to ensure our educators earn a Master’s in Teaching while receiving practical training in real-world classrooms. Your coursework will include topics such as teaching pedagogy, child development, and subject-specific teaching strategies, as well as classroom mentorship from a host teacher during your first year in our program.

WHY JOIN CITY TEACHING ALLIANCE TO EARN YOUR MAT?

CITY TEACHING ALLIANCE IS COMMITTED TO PREPARING EDUCATORS who make a lasting impact in urban classrooms. Our program is designed to support you every step of the way, from earning your MAT to thriving in the classroom. Here’s why joining us is a smart choice:

• Earn Your MAT While Teaching: Through our partnership with American University, you’ll complete your master’s degree while gaining invaluable hands-on experience in schools.
• Comprehensive Support: We provide mentorship, coaching, and professional development to help you succeed both in your program and in your teaching practice.
• Financial Assistance: Our program offers financial awards and personalized guidance to minimize financial barriers, making it easier to achieve your educational goals.
• Impactful Mission: By joining City Teaching Alliance, you’ll become part of a network dedicated to dismantling inequities and improving outcomes for students in underserved communities.

Our teaching pathway is offered in Dallas, Baltimore, Washington, DC, and Philadelphia, ensuring you can earn a master’s degree while effecting real change as a teacher.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP TOWARD A TEACHING CAREER

A Master’s in Teaching is more than just a degree—it’s a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in education. Whether you’re preparing to teach for the first time or transitioning into education from another field, the MAT provides the skills, credentials, and confidence needed to succeed.

At City Teaching Alliance, aspiring teachers receive best-in-class preparation and earn a Master of Arts in Teaching degree with dual certifications in special education and a content area—such as elementary education, secondary mathematics, or secondary English language arts. In addition, residents secure full-time teaching positions in one of our four partner cities after their first year.

CONNECT WITH A RECRUITER TODAY TO LEARN MORE! and start your path toward a rewarding teaching career today.