Master of Arts in Teaching vs. Master in Education

Master of Arts in Teaching: The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) focuses primarily on the advancement of your teaching career. This is the degree most often pursued by people who want hands-on teaching experience and are seeking to work directly with students. The MAT focuses heavily on advanced coursework in a specific subject to hone your expertise. Coursework for the MAT also focuses on pedagogical theory and implementation. Essentially, the MAT will teach you how to be a teacher: methodology, stylistic approach, etc. Oftentimes, the Master of Arts in Teaching consists of hands-on experience that places you in a classroom as a student teacher to practice what you are learning.

Master's in Education: A Master's in Education (M.Ed) is an advanced degree geared more towards moving beyond the classroom and into the education system itself. Certified teachers and aspiring teachers can pursue an M.Ed and still remain in the classroom, but the Master's in Education allows for a broader range within the educational sphere. Often, those who pursue ME degrees have ambitions to influence policies and procedures within schools to make a difference in the lives of students. ME degree programs work to ensure that degree seekers understand the systems and mechanisms behind the education system - as well as the best ways to collaborate with peers to influence change.

MAT Concetrations and Specializations: A typical MAT degree program will feature various specializations that focus in on a specific branch or subject of teaching. Below are a few examples of concentration areas a MAT program might feature:

• Early Childhood Education: MAT programs that focus on early childhood and childhood education are typically designed for teachers who want to work with students from ages 0 to 4, with some programs including certifications for kindergarten and first grade.
• Primary/Elementary Education: Elementary education specific MAT programs equip teachers with the skills and methods needed to work in K-6 classrooms. Foundational coursework in areas like learning styles and teaching methods are emphasized with additional electives typically rounding out the curriculum.
• Secondary Education: For the most part, MAT programs with a specialization in secondary education set up students with certifications to teach in grades 7-12. The coursework is similar to that of any other specialization but takes a deeper look at issues such as mental health and cultural diversity in schools.
• Special Education: MAT degree programs that focus on special education take an enhanced look at teaching students with disabilities. This might include discussions of teaching methods designed for specific student groups and interactive lessons on understanding various disabilities.

While many programs offer a focus on special ed, some schools, like our partner USC Rossier, offer a special education credential that engages students in higher level learnings within the field.

ME Concentrations and Specializations: ME degree programs also will usually offer specializations designed to allow students to gain a deeper understanding of topics within the field of education. Some example ME degree specializations are outlined below:

• Curriculum and Instruction: This major focuses on teaching and learning, and is ideal for people who want to begin their teaching career or advance their career with excellent preparation in educational theory. An M.Ed of Curriculum and Instruction focuses primarily on teaching, public service, and scholarship. You will also gain a better understanding of curriculum development, teacher leadership, and human development.
• Counselor Education: This major is right for you if you are seeking to become a guidance counselor or a school’s mental health professional. Mental health, however, is an entirely different field in and of itself, so if you’re interested in becoming a mental health counselor, you should find out about your specific state's licensure requirements
• Educational Administration: This major will prepare you to become a principal or a higher level school administrator. Coursework in this major is built around educational law, building and community issues, and faculty leadership. Another degree that takes an in-depth look at best practices in education administration and educational leadership is a doctorate of education (also referred to as an EdD)