MAT Elementary Education
Build Your Dream While Shaping Young Futures
ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education
prepares you to earn your Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement
to teach students in grades 1-6. The program offers an alternative licensure path
in a flexible online format, allowing you to tailor your learning experience to your
personal and professional commitments.
Note: Applications are no longer being accepted for the traditional MAT and M.A. graduate
programs. ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ will continue to offer the MAT Alternative Licensure graduate programs.
Please contact Tony DeCesare, Ph.D., interim director of Education, for additional
questions at decesareFREEÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ.*

FORMAT
Online
PROGRAM LENGTH
PEL: 12 Months
PEL and Alternative MAT: 15 Months
CREDIT HOURS
PEL: 26 Credits Hours
PEL and Alternative MAT: 32 Credit Hours
COST
Tuition Per Credit Hour: $575
Credit Hours to Complete: 26 - 45
Approximate Cost: $18,400 - $25,875
Why Earn your MAT Elementary Education Degree?
Earning your MAT in Elementary Education at ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ will equip you with the skills, knowledge and credentials to advance your teaching career. Tailored to young learners, this program helps educators develop advanced teaching methods to stay current with educational research and best practices. Your MAT may lead to higher positions within schools, such as leadership roles or specialized instructional positions, with many school districts offering higher pay scales for teachers with advanced degrees. Whether you're starting your journey or seeking a new career path, this program provides the flexibility to balance work, family and education. With the online option, ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ's program provides an affordable and transformative experience that leads to Illinois licensure and a master's degree.

ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ the Program
The alternative licensure path allows you to work as the teacher of record while pursuing your degree, combining accelerated coursework with classroom experience and one-on-one mentoring. Both paths provide you with the tools to excel as a teacher and positively impact the lives of elementary school students.
ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ's program integrates rigorous coursework with hands-on teaching experiences, including fieldwork and classroom observations. You will also receive personalized mentoring and support from both a site-based coach and a University coordinator. The combination of practical experience and academic learning ensures you are fully prepared for your future classroom.
By the completion of the program, students should be able to:
- Design and evaluate equitable, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive learning environments that cultivate belonging, collaboration, and safety for all students.
- Synthesize and apply research-based and asset-oriented instructional strategies to plan, differentiate, and adapt learning experiences that meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Analyze and interpret multiple forms of assessment data to make informed instructional decisions, monitor progress, and promote equitable learning outcomes.
- Construct and sustain collaborative partnerships with families, colleagues, and community members to strengthen inclusive learning communities and advocate for student success.
- Critically reflect on teaching practices, professional growth, and ethical responsibilities to advance equity, social justice, and continuous improvement.
- Facilitate and empower student voice, agency, and inquiry by designing authentic learning experiences.
- Integrate and create culturally responsive and globally informed learning opportunities
that prepare students to contribute thoughtfully and compassionately to an interconnected
world.
Alternative Licensure
Unlock your potential with our accelerated 15-month program.
Education Alternative LicensureQuick Links
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Want to know more about graduate programs at ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ? Please fill out the form below!
Contact the Office of Admission
- 773-298-3050
- Toll Free: 844-GOTO-ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ (844-468-6798)
- Fax: 773-298-3076
- Email: admissionFREEÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµÏÂÔØ
- M-F: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.





