Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)

The master of arts in teaching is an on-campus initial teacher preparation degree program for those who want to obtain P-12 "multiple subjects" (elementary) or "single subject" (secondary) Oregon licensure. This includes coursework for a graduate degree and simultaneous preparation for initial licensure. Candidates may not transfer credits into the program without approval of the associate dean. A total of 36 semester hours is required for this degree. 

M.A.T. Learning Outcomes

Candidates for the degree will be able to meet Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission authorization standards:

1. Plan instruction that supports student progress in learning in multiple subject areas and is appropriate for the early childhood, elementary, middle, or high school development levels.
2. Establish a classroom climate conducive to learning.
3. Engage students in planned learning activities.
4. Evaluate, act upon, and report student progress in learning.
5. Exhibit professional behaviors, ethics, and values.

Additionally, the M.A.T. program adheres to the following Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC) standards:

Standard #1: Learner Development – The teacher understands how learners grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.

Standard #2: Learning Differences – The teacher uses understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments that enable each learner to meet high standards.

Standard #3: Learning Environments – The teacher works with others to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, and that encourage positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self motivation.

Standard #4: Content Knowledge – The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and creates learning experiences that make the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners to assure mastery of the content.

Standard #5: Application of Content – The teacher understands how to connect concepts and use differing perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative problem solving related to authentic local and global issues.

Standard #6: Assessment – The teacher understands and uses multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, to monitor learner progress, and to guide the teacher’s and learner’s decision making.

Standard #7: Planning for Instruction – The teacher plans instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals by drawing upon knowledge of content areas, curriculum, cross-disciplinary skills, and pedagogy, as well as knowledge of learners and the community context.

Standard #8: Instructional Strategies – The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop deep understanding of content areas and their connections, and to build skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways.

Standard #9: Professional Learning and Ethical Practice – The teacher engages in ongoing professional learning and uses evidence to continually evaluate his/her practice, particularly the effects of his/her choices and actions on others (learners, families, other professionals, and the community), and adapts practice to meet the needs of each learner.

Standard #10: Leadership and Collaboration – The teacher seeks appropriate leadership roles and opportunities to take responsibility for student learning, to collaborate with learners, families, colleagues, other school professionals, and community members to ensure learner growth, and to advance the profession.

Advancement to Student Teaching

In the fall semester, MAT candidates complete a part-time student teaching placement and concurrent professional education coursework. In the spring semester, MAT candidates complete a full-time student teaching placement and continue completing the professional education coursework.

No MAT candidate will be able to enter into the Fall semester/student teaching until all program requirements have been completed, including meeting the passing scores set by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission on all ORELA tests. Failure to complete all testing requirements by the dates given by the School of Education will result in the candidate having to step out of the program for up to one year. Candidates who must step out of the program may return and continue if all tests are passed by the following May 1st and a student teaching placement can be secured.

Additionally, only those MAT candidates who satisfy the requirements for scholarship and personal qualifications suitable for teaching will advance to student teaching. Candidates must successfully meet the requirements of all coursework while demonstrating academic integrity. In addition, ethical, competent behavior is required during all field work and practica.

The process of advancement to student teaching entails review by the School of Education associate dean and approval by the MAT Teacher Education Committee (MTEC). Ordinarily, clinical placements occur only in districts where MAT candidates do not have personal relationships with employees of the district.

Requirements for MAT candidate advancement to student teaching:

1. Passage of all TSPC approved tests required for licensure.
2. Minimum of 3.00 cumulative G.P.A.
3. A grade of C or better in all courses; candidates who receive a grade of C- or lower in any course must repeat the course.
4. Successful completion of a minimum of 50 hours of field work.
5. Completion of all paperwork and approvals necessary for student teaching.
6. Demonstration of positive professional dispositions.

M.A.T. Admission Requirements

1. Master of Arts in Teaching Statement of Goals.
2. Current resume.
3. Two MAT Recommendation Forms and Letters (one from a supervisor in a professional/academic capacity and another that exhibits evidence of experience with children/youth).
4. Official transcripts (from all previously attended academic institutions).
5. A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university recognized by the University of Portland
6. International Applicants: All foreign transcripts will be evaluated by International Student Services prior to an admission decision.
7. An undergraduate G.P.A. of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
8. Student Teaching Background Information Form.
9. Desired Teaching Level/Subject Form.
10. International Applicants: An Official TOEFL (minimum score of 88) or IELTS (minimum score of 7.0) exam score is required.
11. Official Test Scores: Multi-Subject (Elementary): 
    • ORELA Elementary Education Subtests I and II
    • ORELA Protecting Student and Civil Rights in the Educational Environment Test 
12. Official Test Scores: Single-Subject (Secondary):
    • ORELA Subject Area Test
    • ORELA Protecting Student and Civil Rights in the Educational Environment Test
13. International Applicants: Proof of financial support will be required to attend the University of Portland, but is not required for application review.