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Teach. Inspire. Lead the future.

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program at St. Mary’s College of Maryland prepares passionate, knowledgeable, and culturally responsive educators. In just 10 months, students gain certification recognized in all 50 states while developing the practical skills, classroom experience, and professional confidence needed to thrive as teachers. With strong faculty mentorship and immersive field placements, MAT graduates enter the profession ready to inspire students and shape the future of education.

Children sit at tables in a classroom while two adults at the front lead an activity with puppets; some students raise their hands to participate.

97%

Career outcome rate after graduation

50

States recognize the MAT certification allowing graduates to teach nationwide

10

Months to earn your teacher certification in Maryland

What We Offer

We offer licensure in the following areas:

  • Elementary (grades 1-6)
  • Elementary (grades 1-6) with an early childhood endorsement
  • Elementary (grades 1-6) with an environmental studies endorsement
  • Secondary (grades 7-12) in history, English, math, social studies, biology, chemistry, physics, theater, environmental science
  • PreK-12 art, music, French, Spanish & Chinese
  • Special education (grades 1-8)
A teacher assists two young students with a bug-related classroom activity while instructions are displayed on a large screen in the background.
An adult assists two children at a table with a hands-on project involving tape, scissors, and recycled materials in a classroom setting.

Pathways to Teaching

You might be able to complete your undergraduate AND graduate degrees in only 4 years with our 3+1 Path. Or consider our traditional 4+1 Path, in which you earn your undergraduate degree in 4 years and your MAT in a fifth.

Successfully completed the Teacher Academy of Maryland?

If you are also offered admission to SMCM, you’ll receive:

  • 4 college course credits
  • $1000 per year scholarship, for a maximum of 4 years.
  • An Educational Studies academic advisor.
  • Reserved seating in Educational Studies courses.

Prerequisites

To enter the MAT program, students must first complete all undergraduate degree requirements and state-mandated education coursework. A strong academic record, combined with a clear commitment to teaching, is expected. Prior classroom experience—through fieldwork, internships, or related opportunities—can provide excellent preparation and is highly encouraged.

Four children sit at a table working on crafts with markers while two adults supervise in a brightly decorated classroom.
An adult and a child sit at a table doing arts and crafts activities with papers, markers, and colored objects in a classroom setting.

Tuition & Fees

During the undergraduate years, students pay the standard SMCM tuition and fees. The graduate MAT year follows the graduate tuition rate. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and benefits such as the Teacher Academy of Maryland award may reduce overall costs. SMCM works to keep tuition competitive while providing high-quality preparation for a teaching career.

"My time in the MAT program was absolutely transformational in terms of my teaching career now. It was one of the best decisions I ever made."

- Taylor Schafer ’15 / MAT ’16

After you Graduate

MAT graduates are in high demand, with most securing teaching positions immediately after graduation. Alumni serve as educators across Maryland, the U.S., and abroad, including in specialized areas such as English Language Learning and Special Education. Others advance into doctoral study or careers in education policy, curriculum development, and nonprofit leadership. With certification recognized in all 50 states, graduates benefit from both flexibility and stability in their career paths.

A graduate in academic regalia shakes hands with a faculty member on stage during a graduation ceremony, with others standing and watching.

LATEST NEWS

Connect with Your Professors

All the faculty here at St. Mary's College of Maryland want to help you explore your interests and set you up for success. We look forward to connecting with you and meeting you on campus.

White woman with graying brown short hair looking fondly at small golden brown terrier
Angela Johnson

she/her

Department Head

Co-Chair & Professor of Educational Studies

acjohnson@smcm.edu
Katherine Koch
Katherine Koch

Department Head

Co-Chair & Associate Professor of Educational Studies/Special Education

kkoch@smcm.edu

Stay Connected

Contact Us

Meet The MAT Department
(240) 895-2018
Goodpaster Hall

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Student Resources

Apply
Application Instructions
Financial Aid
Teacher Academy of Maryland Completion Verification Form
Educational Studies
Info For Current Students