Our Master of Arts in Teaching prepares you to make a difference in the lives of children and teens by becoming a licensed teacher.

A master's degree in teaching is ideal for you if you are seeking a career change, a recent graduate from a bachelor's program or already working in K-12 education in a non-licensed capacity.

Even in this tight job market, our MAT graduates are finding employment in Oregon and elsewhere.

The unique features of our program include:

Elementary & secondary cohorts

The master's degree in teaching gives you a broad perspective of K-12 education during introductory courses. Later, you concentrate in content appropriate to an elementary or secondary teaching assignment. While you gain specific skills in the area your specialization, you learn how the application of theory applies in all classroom environments.

Commitment to principles of social justice

The master's in teaching degree program is committed to developing educators who have the skills to make a positive impact on the most pressing educational issue facing our state — the glaring gap in children's achievement levels caused by complex social, economic and historical factors. Marylhurst equips MAT graduates with skills to help children reach their full potential.

Reading and English as a second language emphasis

The master's in teaching degree program prepares you with advanced skills in reading instruction and the ability to work successfully with students whose first language is not English. Foundational literacy is stressed in the elementary cohort to provide all students with skills for successful learning. The secondary cohort blends content knowledge expertise with essential skills in reading and language development relevant to older students.

Early entry into the profession

You will finish your degree and licensure requirements with the completion of student teaching prior to the end of March. This provides you with the opportunity to develop a work history during spring term through substitute teaching assignments, which can help secure employment for the next school year.

Mentor support during the first year of teaching

In recognition of the challenge facing new teachers, we'll match you with a Marylhurst MAT mentor who offers support during your first year of employment. Marylhurst's mentors provide meaningful professional development so that your first year of teaching is more successful and rewarding.