In this post, you’ll learn the differences between a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Arts in Education. You’ll also get helpful information about the many available education programs offered by MVNU Online.
The Master of Arts in Teaching degree, also sometimes called an MAT or master’s degree in teaching, is focused on providing practical teaching skills and preparing students to earn their state teaching certification. MAT students choose a concentration in accordance with the teaching certification they want to earn or the grade level or subject they already teach.
The program typically offers coursework in areas such as K-12 academic subjects, lesson planning, student assessment, and classroom management techniques. These programs also provide hands-on experience in a real K-12 classroom.
The Master of Arts in Education degree, also called an M.A.Ed or master’s in education, shares many similarities with the Master of Arts in Teaching. The differences will depend on the specific program you pursue. In general, many M.A.Ed programs focus more on educational concepts rather than subject-specific coursework. Students in an M.A.Ed program learn about teaching theory and practice or other aspects of the education system.
Some M.A.Ed programs provide a broad education, whereas others allow you to specialize in an area such as school administration or special education. Other M.A.Ed programs involve practical classroom experience in addition to coursework.
Although the MAT and M.A.Ed are each two-year master’s programs that teach skills to help you learn and advance your education, there are some differences between these degree types.
The Master of Teaching degree works best for individuals who are interested in becoming a teacher or continuing a teaching career and want practical tools they can apply in the classroom.
The Master of Education degree is also an excellent option for becoming a certified teacher, as it provides well-rounded instruction in education theory and practice. For example, it can help you advance your career if you’re already a teacher and want to deepen your knowledge in areas such as instructional design or subject-specific teaching. It can also help you build your credentials and earn certification in a rewarding area such as education intervention.
Students can enroll in one of several education degree programs from Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) Online. These programs are all Master of Arts in Education programs, but each is designed to meet a different educational need. Take a moment to see whether one of these programs would help you achieve your educational career goals.
In this 22-month program, you’ll take classes covering educational theory, leadership and ethics, instructional design, and more. The PEL component of the degree program prepares you for Ohio teacher licensure in one of 11 specialized areas. This program also includes school placement assistance to help you find the school that is a good match for you.
This program prepares you to earn your initial Ohio state license as an Intervention Specialist for Mild/Moderate (ISM) Disabilities. In other words, it prepares you for a career in special education. Online coursework is complemented by in-classroom learning in the first year.
If you already have a teaching credential but want to shift your focus to special education or add some expertise in this area, you can earn your Intervention Specialist license through this 100 percent online program. This program can be completed in as little as 18 months.
For individuals just beginning to explore a career in education, MVNU Online also offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Elementary Education. Whatever your educational background or career goals, MVNU Online can help you achieve those goals and start making a difference.
Learn more about a career in teaching by watching our on-demand webinar, “How to Change the World and Get Paid for It.”
With so many types of education degree programs, knowing which program is the right fit can be a challenge. The ideal program is out there, ready to help you live out your vocation and enjoy a fulfilling career in education. Learn more by checking out our guide, Which Education Program Is Right for Me?