The School of Teacher Education within the College of Education, Arts, and Humanities offers a comprehensive online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program tailored for individuals without a background or degree in education. This high-quality program equips you with the essential skills to confidently enter your first classroom, as a teacher, across grades K-12. Students undergo two semesters of internship, earning a Class A teacher’s salary, and must pass Mississippi’s licensure exams to obtain their teaching license. Upon completion, you will receive a five-year renewable license and Class AA pay. This program also offers a pathway for those interested in a graduate degree in education, without seeking licensure.
Online
Month Program
(Includes 2 semesters of internship.)
Employment Rate After Graduation
Why Get an Online Teaching Master’s Degree at DSU?
The Teaching master’s program at Delta State University is designed to address the critical teacher shortage in the state of Mississippi. The program prepares individuals without a degree or background in education to become highly qualified teachers who can teach across elementary grades 4-6 (with the ability to teach K-3 upon completion), secondary grades 7-12, and specialized subjects.
An internship is a requirement for students who want to become licensed teachers. Non-licensure tracks are available if you are already licensed or simply desire a master’s degree. With all courses available online, the MAT program ensures flexibility and accessibility, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments while preparing to make a difference in education.
- Applications accepted year round
- Advising available online
- Caring and supportive advisors
- No teaching experience required
- No teaching licensure requirement
- Cohort-based
- Two semesters of internship
- Three required courses before internship
- Innovative instruction
- Years of classroom experience by faculty
Concentrations in the M.A.T.
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Elementary
The Elementary concentration is offered online and focuses on acquiring the skills needed to become highly qualified elementary teachers. Students intern for two semesters in a grade 4-6 classroom and are eligible to teach grades K-3 upon completing the MAT Program. Before interning, students must pass Praxis II 5018 and Mississippi’s Foundations of Reading exams. You will learn comprehensive teaching strategies encompassing reading instruction, STEM education, and special education.
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Secondary
The Secondary concentration is offered online and focuses on developing the skills required to excel as highly qualified teachers in grades 7-12, choosing from various content areas. Before interning, students must pass the content area-specific Praxis II exam. Secondary students engage in coursework that delves into secondary curriculum, effective teaching practices in their chosen content area, classroom management, assessment techniques, and special education strategies.
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Special Subjects
The Special Subjects concentration is offered online and prepares students to teach grades K-12. Special Subjects covers areas such as Physical Education (PE), Art, and Music. Before interning, students must pass the appropriate Praxis II exam. Special Subjects students follow the secondary curriculum tailored to their respective fields.
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Elementary (Non-Licensure)
The Elementary (Non-licensure) concentration is offered online and is for licensed elementary teachers seeking a master’s degree in education. However, any admitted student may opt for non-licensure. Non-licensure students follow the elementary curriculum and select approved electives to replace the internship courses.
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Secondary (Non-Licensure)
The Secondary (Non-licensure) concentration is offered online and is for licensed secondary teachers pursuing a master’s degree in education. However, any admitted student may opt for non-licensure. Non-licensure students follow the secondary curriculum and choose approved electives in lieu of internship courses.
What Can I Do With a Master’s Degree in Teaching?
With an M.A. in Teaching, you can pursue a variety of career paths in the field of education. This degree primarily prepares you for roles as a certified classroom teacher in elementary, middle, or high schools, allowing you to specialize in specific subject areas. Additionally, a teaching master’s degree can open doors to leadership positions such as instructional coordinators, curriculum developers, or educational consultants. Some graduates may also choose to work in educational research or policy-making, contributing to the improvement of educational systems and practices. Overall, an M.A. degree in Teaching provides the skills and credentials needed to enter and advance in educational careers and make a significant impact on student learning and development.
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”The MAT program offered me a unique opportunity to enhance my critical thinking and research skills, which have been essential to my professional growth. The program's focus on inclusivity and diverse perspectives has helped me become a more well-rounded and effective professional. I am grateful for the experience and honored to have been part of the MAT program.
KinKem Betts, Class of 20231st Grade Teacher, Shadow Oaks Elementary School
Graduate Funding Opportunities
Graduate students at Delta State University have a number of funding opportunities available to them, including Graduate Assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, and loans. In addition, we also offer an affordable tuition rate with no additional fees for out-of-state students. We work closely with students to identify and apply for federal and state financial aid programs, as well as student loans and state scholarships. We are committed to providing our students with all of the tools necessary to succeed in the education field, including access to affordable education and financial support.
Program Goals
The goal of the Master of Arts in Teaching program is to provide high quality instruction together with an intensive internship guided by a knowledgeable DSU supervisor to prepare candidates not only to teach, but to become educational leaders. Through coursework and internship, candidates are able to apply theory and research to their practice to become teachers engaged in innovative teaching and learning.
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Teacher Education Resources
Current Students
Stay connected with important dates, explore academic and professional opportunities, and engage with program resources.
Office of Clinical Experiences, Licensure, and Accountability
Explore diverse field placements, build connections with local school systems, and prepare for your future as an educator.
Mississippi Teacher Residency Program
Join the Mississippi Teacher Residency Program to gain hands-on teaching experience while receiving full scholarships, textbooks, and residency training.
Program Contact
Ann Graham, Ed.D.
M.A.T. Program Coordinator
E: amgraham@interactivebilisim.com
P: 662-846-4385