Teacher Education (M.A.T.)
Welcome to the Rutgers-Camden Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) program. Whether you’re pursuing a teaching career or are a certified educator looking to deepen your expertise in a specific academic area, Rutgers University–Camden is here to support your path to success. Our M.A.T. degree program provides students with a solid and practical foundation in pedagogy, classroom methods, and educational theory.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
The Teacher Education (M.A.T.) program aligns with the New Jersey Department of Education code requirements and provides students with an academic year (Fall and Spring) placement in a local school for hands-on practical learning experiences.
Students will come away with a solid theoretical background in educational practice, a comprehensive picture of diversity and its role in classrooms and schools, a clear understanding of best clinical practices, and an appreciation of professional practices and responsibilities.
Concentrations offered through the Rutgers-Camden M.A.T.:
Early Childhood Education (33 Credits)
After completing all coursework and state licensure requirements, the Early Childhood concentration allows you to teach language arts literacy, mathematics, science, computer and information literacy, and social studies in preschool through grade three classrooms.
Elementary Education (30 credits)
After completing all coursework and state licensure requirements, the Elementary Education concentration allows you to teach language arts literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies in grades kindergarten through six, and to teach reading, writing, arithmetic, and spelling, for basic skills purposes only, in grades six through 12.
Secondary Education (30 Credits)
After completing all coursework and state licensure requirements, the Secondary Education concentration allows you to teach the subject matter of your endorsement (e.g. English) and only that subject at all grade levels. In practice, you will likely teach your subject in departmentalized grades 5 – 12. Certification areas:
- Art
- Biological Science
- Chemistry
- English
- French
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physics
- Social Studies
- Spanish
- Theater
- Family and Consumer Sciences (Approval issued in February)
Special Education (30 Credits)
Please note: This concentration is best suited for already-licensed teachers.
The Special Education concentration allows you to teach students classified with disabilities in your content and/or grade-level endorsements. You may provide consultative services and supportive resource programs including modification and adaptation of curriculum and instruction to students with disabilities in general education programs in grades preschool through 12. This sequence is ideal for those who have already earned a teaching license and are seeking an MAT with a special education concentration. Upon approval from the NJ Department of Education, currently licensed teachers will be eligible to earn an NJ Teacher of Students with Disabilities endorsement upon completion of the MAT.
Program Overview
DETAIL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| DEGREE | Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) Accelerated option available Teacher of Student with Disabilities Certificate available |
| CREDITS | Elementary Secondary Education and Special Education Concentrations – 30 credits | Early Childhood Education – 33 credits |
| FORMAT | Full-time or part-time, on-campus |
| DURATION | 4-6 semesters |
| FUNDING | University and Graduate School (Partial Funding Only) |
Program in Action
NEW DEPARTMENT APPROVED
The Rutgers Board of Governors approved the new Department of Education and Teacher Preparation, overseeing education programs at Graduate School–Camden.
Accreditation and Assessment
The Rutgers Camden M.A.T. program is accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), effective October 24, 2016.
Frequently Asked Questions
On this FAQ page, you will find answers to MAT admission requirements, program testing criteria, course sequences, application eligibility, Praxis test details, and licensure-related inquiries.
Featured Courses
View the Course Schedule.
PSYCHOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF LEARNING
(56:300:500)
This course examines child and adolescent development and focuses on developmental stages, learner motivation, student interests, creating a healthy learning climate, language development, and individual differences. (NJPST 1, 2, 3)
MANAGING STUDENT BEHAVIORS
(56:300:502)
An examination of behavioral and psychotherapies for the range of behaviors found in the classroom. The course will equip students with a variety of research-based strategies and models of discipline to address behavior management of all students in a classroom. (NJPST 1, 2, 3)
FUNDAMENTALS OF EDUCATION
(56:300:510)
An examination of the foundations of teaching and instruction. Students will explore current topics in modern education and classroom methodologies. The completion and documentation of the 50-hour clinical experience is a course requirement. (NJPST 2,3,7,8)
EARLY CHILDHOOD / ELEMENTARY CLASSROOM ASSESSMENTS
(56:300:507)
An overview of assessment issues in general and special education, covering types, characteristics, and using assessment to set goals and monitor progress. (NJPST 6)
SECONDARY TEACHING METHODS
(56:300:506)
The focus will continue to explore the foundational methods of teaching, with an emphasis on constructing effective instruction in practice to match learner characteristics and needs. (NJPST 4,5,7,8)
INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION
(56:300:531)
A survey of research-based strategies, materials, and technologies for diverse classrooms, including students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, focusing on planning and assessment. (NJPST 3, 5, 7, 8)
Admissions Requirements
DETAIL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| TRANSCRIPTS | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited undergraduate school 3.0 GPA in Bachelor’s degree or higher |
| LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION | Two letters of recommendation |
| PERSONAL STATEMENT | A statement regarding the applicant’s personal and professional goals and experience |
| LICENSE | For Special Education concentration candidates only, proof of current teaching license |
Application Deadlines
Preference is given to those submitted before the deadline for both decisions and funding opportunities. Applications received after the deadlines will be considered based on available space and budgetary constraints.
Fall
AUG 15
Spring
DEC 15
Summer
MAY 1
Reach Out to Us
Let’s begin a conversation about your academic and professional goals. If you have questions regarding the curriculum, faculty, admission criteria, or committee, please feel free to contact the Graduate Program Director. For administrative inquiries concerning the application process, campus tuition, and fees, reach out to the Graduate School. We are dedicated to assisting you from application to graduation day.
GRADUATE SCHOOL CONTACT
Erick E. Watt-Udogu
Assistant Dean, Graduate School-Camden
erick.watt-udogu@rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6149
Take the Next Step.
We invite you to explore the boundless opportunities that await you here, where a world-class faculty, diverse community, and innovative curriculum converge to nurture your intellect and foster your professional growth. Your future starts with a simple yet significant act – learning more about the exceptional programs we offer. So, why wait? Start your application journey with us, and together, we’ll unlock a future filled with possibilities and endless success.