MAT

Thank you for your interest in our MAT program.

Program Description

This program is specifically designed for potential candidates who want to obtain an initial teaching certificate/license in New York State.

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Science Program prepares students with undergraduate majors in science to earn a MAT and to assume teaching positions in grades 7-12. The program is a minimum of 42 credits. Thirty-three credits comprise science teaching and science learning and nine credits consist of additional graduate-level science content. The program of study is a combination of graduate-level coursework in secondary education, science content, pedagogical science content knowledge, and clinical experiences at local area schools. The intent of the program is to graduate students who have a strong base of science content knowledge and solid pedagogical content knowledge grounded in research, theory, and practice.

The MAT in Science Education program is specifically registered with and approved by the State Education Department as an initial teacher preparation program. Candidates completing this program are eligible for “approved program” certification through the Queens College Teacher Certification Office located in Powdermaker Hall, Room 135.

Program Requirements: Candidates are expected to have completed the equivalent of an academic major in a science discipline (i.e., biology, chemistry, physics, or earth science) with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in your overall bachelor’s degree program and a minimum GPA of 3.00 in science studies. Candidates must also demonstrate, through their application and letters of reference, that they possess the temperament and appropriate dispositions to be an effective teacher. Candidates should be aware that many of the courses that are in the program require fieldwork in local schools in addition to class time on campus.

NOTE: Fingerprinting is required by the New York City Department of Education (for student teaching and employment) and by the New York State Department of Education (for certification purposes). Please be sure both systems have your fingerprints on file.

Attached below is a program of study that should provide additional clarity to your inquiry.