Master of Arts
Teaching Degree
Online
Online
The Master of Arts in Teaching prepares students with a bachelor’s degree to apply for teaching credentials in their discipline.
Teaching Degree
Bring Your Love of Learning into a Career in the Classroom.
Good teachers are in great demand. And when you have a love of learning and a passion for a subject, you can become a great teacher who brings a lasting positive influence on students. With a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) from Bellevue University, you can bring your love of science, history, math, health and physical education or another discipline into the classroom and begin a new career in education.
Benefits of the Master's in Teaching
- Designed for professionals and aspiring educators who already hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than education.
- Bring your real-life experience and subject knowledge with you into the classroom.
- The GRE is NOT required.
- Online courses are designed for busy schedules (an Elementary Education endorsement requires some on campus courses).
- The MAT allows you to become a certified teacher in one or more disciplines whether you are working in some aspect of education or in a different industry.
Wanted: Your Real-life Experience.
Your real-life experience in business, science, social science, English, math, or other fields can be invaluable to our schools. With a bachelor's in a field outside of education, you bring unique, relevant industry knowledge and on-the-job experience to the classroom that set you on a successful career path in education—whether you choose elementary, middle-level or high school. The master's in teaching will prepare you to manage a classroom and evaluate your students' learning. You'll know how to encourage and support them so they can be successful in the classroom, through adapting the instruction to their individual needs.
If you've been working in another career field, but leading a classroom is something you've had a heart for, our master of arts degree in teaching allows you to quickly apply what you know to the art of teaching, to make a difference in our schools.
Important Prerequisite to the Master of Arts in Teaching:
The Master of Arts in Teaching prepares you to earn an initial teaching license from the Nebraska Department of Education for an elementary and/or secondary classroom (in the state of Nebraska). To enroll in this graduate program, you must have completed a bachelor's degree. *
For example, if you earned a bachelor's degree in biology, you may wish to seek an endorsement in the content area of biology, chemistry or general science.
Example content areas in which you could choose a teaching endorsement:
- Biology
- Business, Marketing and IT
- Chemistry
- English
- Health and Physical Education
- History
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Science
- Psychology
- Elementary Education †
- Special Education †
Courses
What You'll Learn
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Know and appreciate a learner-centered philosophy as a fundamental element of successful teaching, learning, and administrating in global and multicultural education.
- Demonstrate the skills, knowledge, and dispositions for effective instruction in diverse classrooms.
- Apply the principles of learning theory, curriculum development, assessment theory, and educational philosophy in instructional design within a multicultural setting.
- Demonstrate an understanding of instructional leadership responsibilities including data–informed decision-making, ethical practice, and commitment to fostering classroom culture to enhance student learning.
- Analyze data and reflect on the effects of instruction on student learning and adapt methodology, strategies, and practices to improve teaching and learning.
- Use knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the multicultural classroom.
Teaching Degree Courses
Current students please login to BRUIN and select “Academic Progress” for your curriculum requirements.
Requirements for Secondary Education Endorsement/Licensure (36 credit hours)
(Click a course name below to view course details).
This course explores the diverse student population in today’s K-12 schools to better prepare teachers for the 21st century. The course content will include various ethnic and cultural viewpoints and gender roles in today’s world. Special attention is given to teaching students whose lives are affected by poverty. This course meets the HRT requirement for Nebraska licensure. This course explores the diverse student population in today’s K-12 schools to better prepare teachers for the 21st century. The course content will include various ethnic and cultural viewpoints and gender roles in today’s world. Special attention is given to teaching students whose lives are affected by poverty. This course meets the HRT requirement for Nebraska licensure. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program.
This course surveys exceptionality in education and Special Education. The course identifies changes in education policy, methods of teaching students with handicapping conditions, alternative multi-disciplinary team approaches, and an introduction to the various characteristics and classifications of handicapping conditions as defined by the Nebraska Department of Education. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course provides an overview of instructional and educational technologies for K-12 teachers. Special emphasis is placed on instructional software, classroom technology tools, learning applications, technology frameworks, and technology standards for integration. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course explores the relationship between classroom management and effective teaching in the elementary, middle, and high school settings. Students evaluate current theories in classroom management, analyze personal management styles, and learn to maximize student learning based on management. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course is a study of the concepts, skills, and tools of inquiry for methods of instruction. Students will develop the skills necessary to create meaningful learning experiences for their future classroom learning environments. Emphasis is placed on effective teaching in every subject area. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Note: Students pursuing an elementary education endorsement must take EDUC 535, 555, 583, and 585 in lieu of EDUC 540. This decision will be made in consultation with the Certification Officer and the Program Director. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course is a study of the concepts, skills, and tools of inquiry and methods of instruction necessary for literacy comprehension at the elementary, middle, and secondary levels. Students will develop the skills necessary to create meaningful learning experiences for their future classroom learning environments. Emphasis is placed on effective teaching of reading in every subject area. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course is a historical and philosophical analysis of educational theorists and their contribution to current educational thought. Theories addressed include Realism, Pragmatism, Existentialism, Marxism, analytical theories, and naturalistic theories and their proponents. Students learn to analyze and evaluate the philosophical presuppositions in various educational philosophies, textbooks, methodologies, trends, or subject matter used in the educational community. Prerequisite: Acceptance into MAT program.
This course presents the psychological principles underlying learning and effective teaching, the effect of social and personality factors on the learning process, and the application of learning theory to teaching. Attention is given to the human development process and its effects on student learning in the classroom. Prerequisite: Acceptance into MAT program.
This course emphasizes the procedures for creating assessments, evaluating validity and reliability, and applying testing principles to evaluating student progress. Basic statistical principles are applied to using, analyzing, and interpreting test results. The emphasis is placed on standardized tests and their value in educational assessment. The course also explores the use of alternative types of assessment as indicators of outcome completion. Prerequisite: Acceptance into MAT program.
Taken concurrently with Student Teaching Experience. This seminar accompanies the Student Teaching Experience and provides opportunities for discussion, reflection, and input related to the ongoing student teaching experience. Topics are generated from classroom experiences. Discussions focus on practical solutions to concerns faced by student teachers. Emphasis is placed on integrating theory and practice. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all endorsement courses, MAT EDUC courses and Praxis 2 content exam(s). Current enrollment with EDUC 610.
Taken concurrently with Student Teaching Seminar. Student teaching provides field experience in elementary, middle, or secondary schools related to the teaching of the specific subject areas. Total Student Teaching requires at least 14 full-time weeks of classroom time with students to integrate theory and practice with elementary, middle, or secondary school experience. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all endorsement courses, MAT courses and Praxis 2 content exam(s). Current enrollment with EDUC 600.
Requirements for Elementary Education Endorsement/Licensure (36 credit hours)
(Click a course name below to view course details).
This course explores the diverse student population in today’s K-12 schools to better prepare teachers for the 21st century. The course content will include various ethnic and cultural viewpoints and gender roles in today’s world. Special attention is given to teaching students whose lives are affected by poverty. This course meets the HRT requirement for Nebraska licensure. This course explores the diverse student population in today’s K-12 schools to better prepare teachers for the 21st century. The course content will include various ethnic and cultural viewpoints and gender roles in today’s world. Special attention is given to teaching students whose lives are affected by poverty. This course meets the HRT requirement for Nebraska licensure. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program.
This course surveys exceptionality in education and Special Education. The course identifies changes in education policy, methods of teaching students with handicapping conditions, alternative multi-disciplinary team approaches, and an introduction to the various characteristics and classifications of handicapping conditions as defined by the Nebraska Department of Education. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course provides an overview of instructional and educational technologies for K-12 teachers. Special emphasis is placed on instructional software, classroom technology tools, learning applications, technology frameworks, and technology standards for integration. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course explores the relationship between classroom management and effective teaching in the elementary, middle, and high school settings. Students evaluate current theories in classroom management, analyze personal management styles, and learn to maximize student learning based on management. This course includes 20 hours of practicum. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
Theoretical bases for and the study of the concepts, skills, tools of inquiry and methods of instruction necessary for the study of social studies in elementary and middle schools. This course will develop the skills needed to create learning experiences that make all aspects of the field of social studies meaningful for students. Emphasis will be placed on geography, economics, sociology, anthropology, political science and history. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
An overview of the reading process (using graphophonic, semantic, and syntactic aspects of language) and its theoretical foundations focusing on historic and current philosophies of reading instruction. This course acquaints students with the developmental reading Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
This course presents the psychological principles underlying learning and effective teaching, the effect of social and personality factors on the learning process, and the application of learning theory to teaching. Attention is given to the human development process and its effects on student learning in the classroom. Prerequisite: Acceptance into MAT program.
This course surveys the theoretical foundations, methods, materials, and instructional issues in teaching mathematics in elementary and middle school classrooms. This course is designed to help future teachers develop knowledge, skills, and beliefs that enhance their ability to teach mathematics to children. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
Teaching Science is designed to prepare the pre-service teacher with actual activities and information as well as the theoretical foundations for and methodology to deliver lessons. This is an Inquiry-based science methods class utilizing firsthand concrete materials available to classroom teachers. The ideas, lessons, and units can be directly applied to elementary and middle-level classrooms. Emphasis will be placed upon the investigative approach to the teaching of elementary science. Prerequisites: Acceptance into MAT program. All fieldwork requirements must be met before practicum experience can begin.
Taken concurrently with Student Teaching Experience. This seminar accompanies the Student Teaching Experience and provides opportunities for discussion, reflection, and input related to the ongoing student teaching experience. Topics are generated from classroom experiences. Discussions focus on practical solutions to concerns faced by student teachers. Emphasis is placed on integrating theory and practice. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all endorsement courses, MAT EDUC courses and Praxis 2 content exam(s). Current enrollment with EDUC 610.
Taken concurrently with Student Teaching Seminar. Student teaching provides field experience in elementary, middle, or secondary schools related to the teaching of the specific subject areas. Total Student Teaching requires at least 14 full-time weeks of classroom time with students to integrate theory and practice with elementary, middle, or secondary school experience. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all endorsement courses, MAT courses and Praxis 2 content exam(s). Current enrollment with EDUC 600.
The following undergraduate courses MUST be completed in addition to the Graduate courses listed in the Elementary Education Endorsement/Licensure table above. (14 credit hours)
(Click a course name below to view course details).
This course introduces the historical, political, and social issues that have contributed to public policy regarding services for language minority students. Historical trends and legal issues specifically related to bilingual education in the United States will be discussed. A comprehensive focus will be placed on the theoretical foundations of English as a second language, both linguistic as well as non-linguistic.
OR
This course is designed to introduce you to the terminology and concepts of modern linguistics, helping the student to develop insight into the linguistics phenomena of one’s native language and beyond. Sound systems of languages (phonetics, phonology, and phonemics), word formation (morphology), sentence formation (syntax), and language meaning (semantics) are introduced. A history of the English language is included. The course is intended to develop a curiosity and enthusiasm for language and language writing.
This course examines physical education teaching methods and activities at the elementary level. Emphasis will be placed on curriculum planning, implementation, and assessment in order to meet the needs of elementary children.
Teacher candidates will develop knowledge and skill in diagnostic and remedial reading techniques. This course includes examination of the administration and interpretation of diagnostic instruments, causes of reading problems, remedial techniques, special motivation factors designed for striving readers, and diagnostic and administrative procedures necessary for early referral of students with reading difficulties. Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Teacher Education Program and concurrent enrollment in EDUC 382.
This course is the study of literature for children and adolescents, with an emphasis on selecting, interpreting, critiquing, and using quality literature with children. The course is primarily intended to help teachers develop, extend, and refine their own literary understanding, as well as to recognize and value good children’s literature for its literary and social merits. Emphasis is placed on the sensitive and informed reading of books in a variety of genres, as well as the general and genre-specific issues in children’s literature. Candidates will explore ways to deepen and broaden children’s interest in literature.
Candidates will participate in a supervised 30-hour field practicum designed to link theory with practice in reading and literacy classrooms. Completion of at least 30 hours is required in order to pass the practicum course. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment with SPED 300
University Accreditation
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).
Whether a college, university, or program is accredited is important to students with financial aid, employers who provide tuition assistance, donors, and the federal government.
This program is considered a non-licensure degree/certificate program and is not intended for those seeking licensure or the practice of licensed profession. This program may be relevant to multiple occupations that do not require licensure and was not designed to meet educational requirements for any specific professional license or certification.
*Consult with an admissions counselor to determine your eligible credits, as well as to verify minimum graduation requirements for this degree. Transfer credits must be from a regionally accredited college or university. Bellevue University makes no promises to prospective students regarding the acceptance of credit awarded by examination, credit for prior learning, or credit for transfer until an evaluation has been conducted.
Take the next step toward becoming a teacher. We're ready to help you get there.
Format
Take education courses conveniently online and focus on the content area of your choice.
The core MAT courses are available online (36 graduate credit hours) while some endorsement classes, if required for your chosen discipline, may be offered on campus or available online. Any additional course requirements to the MAT courses will be determined in consultation with the Certification Officer and Program Director.
100% Online learning that works for your life and your goals.
Our flexible online courses are designed to bring quality learning into a format that fits your schedule, without sacrificing meaningful faculty feedback and collaboration with peers across the country. Stay on track with the help of your Student Coach — with you from day one to graduation.
We value the experience you bring to the table in your Master of Arts in Teaching degree.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Graduate degrees can be more affordable than you think.
Earning a degree is an investment in yourself. We want to help you make sure it’s a wise one.
2024 / 2025 Academic Year
$660 In-Class or Online Cost Per Credit
(Additional fees may apply to individual courses within your major requirements)
2025 / 2026 Academic Year
$680 In-Class or Online Cost Per Credit
(Additional fees may apply to individual courses within your major requirements)
Curious about financial aid? We’ve got the answers.
As a graduate student, you may be eligible for up to $20,500 per year in unsubsidized Direct Student Loans.
And, students often apply for graduate program scholarships through Bellevue University or tuition reimbursement through their employers. Talk to us and we’ll help you explore your options.
Admissions
Start on the path to your master’s. No GRE or GMAT required.
We believe in reducing roadblocks to education. That’s why our admissions requirements focus only on what matters—helping hardworking students access the education they deserve.
For admission to Bellevue University, applicants must:
- Possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or a U.S. equivalent degree from a nationally or internationally accredited college or university.
- Have maintained a GPA of 2.5 or better from the most recent 60 credits of coursework earned toward the bachelor’s degree or have maintained a GPA of 3.0 or better in previous graduate level coursework earned toward the graduate degree.
If you haven’t already, take a moment to request information about your masters program and get in touch with our admissions team. We’ll help make sure you have what you need and answer your questions.
When you’re ready to apply, start your application online. You’ll then:
- Submit your deposit to Bellevue University. (You can do this at any point in the process.)
- Submit your transcripts from past institutions and any other required documentation.
- Complete the FAFSA and see what grants and loans you’re eligible for.
If you are an international student, please see the following specific information: International Student Master Admissions.
You'll just need to create an account and complete a pre-application to Bellevue University through Guild. Once you receive confirmation that your pre-application to Bellevue University has been approved, you'll need to complete the required steps to get fully accepted and registered. These include:
- Submitting transcripts from past institutions
- Submitting related documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the MAT is designed to help students seek an initial teaching license and you do not need a previous education degree.
No, you do not need to have majored in one of the endorsement content areas. You can come with any major in your completed bachelor's or master's degree, and an evaluation of your credits will determine what coursework in your chosen endorsement content area you may be required to take in addition to the master's in teaching core courses.
However, if your chosen endorsement area is closely aligned with your previous coursework, you may need few or no additional courses to complete the teaching endorsement.
No, the MAT is designed to help students seek an initial teaching license in the state of Nebraska.
Currently, MAT students must plan to teach in the state of Nebraska.
Degree Specific Admissions Requirements
(in addition to the Bellevue University requirements for admission)
- Students must have a bachelor's or master's degree in a content endorsement area, OR be interested in pursuing an initial teaching license. If students do not have a degree in a content area endorsement, they will work with the Certification Officer and Program Director to determine an academic pathway.
- Content areas: Business, Marketing, and Information Technology (BMIT), Health and Physical Education, Mathematics, Physical Education, Science, Social Science, Biology, Chemistry, Health, History, Psychology, English
- † Students who are seeking an endorsement in Elementary Education and/or Special Education will work with the Certification Officer to determine the correct coursework necessary for licensure.
- Students must have a minimum 2.75 GPA in their bachelor's degree to apply to the Master of Arts in Teaching program.
- Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA to continue in the program.
- Student must be able to complete the Field Work Affiliation Agreement and provide evidence of a cooperating teacher/administrator to complete fieldwork evaluations for each field experience.
Students need to maintain satisfactory academic progress as outlined in the Bellevue University Academic Catalog and Student Handbook.
Ready to get started?
Reach out to admissions.
- Get your questions answered about the Teaching Degree
- Understand your financial aid and scholarship options
- Map out a schedule that fits with your priorities
