Master of Arts in Teaching with Initial Licensure: 5-12 Communication Arts and Literature

MAT Program Overview

Designed for working adults, this degree program provides initial licensure leading to a master’s degree in a supportive learning environment. Faculty have K-12 experience and a commitment to helping you become a successful teacher. Learn hands-on applications in an integrated curriculum focusing on urban, multicultural issues.

Field placements are integrated throughout the program so you practice what you learn in your courses as you progress toward full-time student teaching. You will develop the skills, content, and confidence to be a highly qualified teaching professional. Graduate education classes typically meet once a week in the evening. Some daytime classes are also available. You may attend the program on a full-time or part-time basis, according to your preferred pace of study.

After successfully completing the courses listed in an individually-developed course planner, students apply for acceptance to student teaching. Upon successful completion of the license requirements, students are recommended for state licensure. Students must maintain a 3.0 overall GPA and earn B- or higher in all licensure courses. Refer to the student handbook for program details and requirements.

There is a 7-year limit for students to complete licensure requirements, including passing student-teaching and applying for MN licensure. A student has an additional 7 years to complete the MAT degree.

State Testing Requirements

• MTLE: NES Essential Academic Skills Test (see your advisor for equivalents)
• MTLE: Secondary Pedagogy 5-12 (sub test 1 and 2)
• MTLE: Communication Arts and Literature 5-12 (sub test 1 and 2)

Pedagogy Requirements - Initial License, 5-12

• GED 7801 - Introduction to Advanced Teacher Thinking
• GED 7815 - Schools and Society
• GED 7825 - Educational Psychology
• GED 7862 - Education and Cultural Diversity
• GED 7867 - Theory to Practice
• GED 7871 - Teaching Literacy in the Middle and Secondary School 5-12
• GED 7872 - Exceptionality
• GED 7888 - English Learners in the Mainstream
• GED 7050 - Student Teaching Seminar
• GED 7895 - Secondary Student Teaching 5-12

Methods Requirements - Communication Arts and Literature

• GED 7857 - Teaching Communication Arts/Literature, Dance/Theatre Arts Part I
• GED 7870 - Teaching Communication Arts/Literature in the Middle and Secondary School Part II

Content Requirements - Communication Arts and Literature

• ENG 1900 - Introduction to Literature and Criticism
• ENG 3020 - Literary and Cultural Theory
• ENG 3720 - Teaching Writing: Theory and Practice
• ENG XXXX - One English course with a Race/Ethnicity focus 
• ENG XXXX - One English course with a Gender focus
• COMM 1100 - Introduction to Communication Studies
• COMM 1110 - Public Speaking
• COMM 3320 - Media in the Digital Age
• COMM 3380 - Small Group Communication

Degree Completion Requirements

• GED 8400 - Research Design

MAT Application Requirements

• Completed application (available through Graduate Admission, www.hamline.edu/graduate/admission/hse.html).
• Official sealed transcripts of previous coursework.
• Two letters of recommendation. Request these letters from people familiar with your academic and/or professional qualifications.
• Written essay. Submit a one- to two-page, double-spaced essay discussing why you have decided to pursue public school licensure. Please include your experience (volunteer or paid) in working with children.
• Résumé