Elementary and Secondary Education

The School of Education offers a 14-month Master of Arts program in Elementary and Secondary Education. The M.A.T. with Single Subject Credential prepares candidates to teach mathematics, social science, English language arts, sciences, art, or world languages at the middle or high school level. The M.A.T. with Multiple Subject Credential prepares students to teach all grade levels and content areas within the elementary school curriculum and includes the option of earning a bilingual authorization. The M.A.T. program provides a rich theoretical and practical framework with a focus on Learning to Learn from Teaching, or continuously studying the impact of one’s teaching on student learning.

Admission

Selection is based on the graduate admission requirements of the UCI Graduate Division, which include the strength of the undergraduate academic record, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

Submit an application through the Graduate Division.

Evidence of Academic Achievement–Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions. Completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution and a minimum grade point average of 3.0 will support admission to the program.

Written Recommendations. Three letters of recommendation, including at least one from an academic source, from individuals who are familiar with the applicant’s (1) ability to pursue graduate study, (2) capacity to work with children, and/or (3) demonstrated fitness for the professional environment of teaching.

Requirements

Prior to the Start of the Program

• Pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test or provide evidence of equivalent coursework leading to a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university.
• Pass the required California Subject Matter Tests, equivalent coursework, or complete an approved subject-matter preparation program in the content area;
• Hold a current Certificate of Clearance or Substitute Teaching Permit from the State of California;
• Hold a current TB test with negative results.

Program of Study

Multiple Subject Credential

Summer One – First Session

Summer One – Second Session

Fall Quarter

Winter Quarter

Spring Quarter

Summer Two

Single Subject Credential

Summer One - First Session

Summer One - Second Session

Fall Quarter

Winter Quarter

Spring Quarter

Summer Two

A comprehensive examination is completed by M.A.T. candidates during the second summer. The examination is an action research project embedded in EDUC 248 Understanding Teacher Agency.

A grade of B or better is required in all courses and in student teaching for successful completion of the program.

Student teaching for Multiple Subject candidates (grades K–6) is defined as a full day, four days per week during the first quarter of student teaching and a full day, five days per week during the second quarter of student teaching. Assignments will include two grade levels within the K–6 range in elementary schools.

Student teaching for Single Subject candidates (grades 7–12) in the post-baccalaureate program is defined as a full day, five days per week for one public school semester in an appropriate classroom setting in a middle or high school.

Readiness for student teaching shall be determined by, but not be limited to, academic work, professional conduct, and potential for success in teaching. Failure to be advanced to student teaching will be considered good cause for removal and/or a leave of absence from the program.

Applying for a California Credential

In addition to fulfilling all of the above requirements:

• Show evidence a college-level course, or pass an approved examination on the U.S. Constitution;
• Obtain a CPR certificate in Adult, Child, and Infant resuscitation training.
• Pass the Teaching Performance Assessment

Adding Teaching Authorizations. After acquiring a basic credential, it is possible to add further teaching authorizations. Consult an academic counselor in the School of Education Student Affairs office for details.