How does adding a Master of Arts in Teaching benefit me beyond having my bachelor’s degree and teaching credential?

Earning a master’s in teaching has numerous benefits for an educator. Here are a few key benefits: Expertise — You’ll expand your skills as an educator through the additional courses needed to earn your MAT, which all focus on broader issues in education. Increased salary potential — Most school districts offer higher pay tiers depending on the level of education. Career options — Having a master’s degree expands career options into areas such as curriculum coordinator, department head, assessment director, and various administrative roles. Expanded teaching — Should you choose at some point to broaden your teaching from the special education realm, an MAT can allow you to do so, although you may still have to gain subject matter expertise if you move into a completely new area. Still, your MAT would open possibilities teaching at community colleges, doing educational consulting, working at education nonprofits, and other options.

I already have my California teaching credential. Can I transfer it into the Master of Arts in Teaching program?

Yes. If you hold a California Preliminary or Clear Single or Multiple Subject Credential, you can transfer a block of credit from that credential into the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education with 2042 Multiple Subject Credential or the MAT in Secondary Education with 2042 Single Subject Credential, and your prior work will be posted as “Satisfy in Transfer” credit toward the degree. In these MAT programs, the total degree is 42 credits, 30 of which are fulfilled by your existing credential, leaving 12 credits—typically EDUU 511, EDUU 681, EDUU 682, and EDUU 683—for you to complete to earn your master’s.

How long does it take to earn a Single Subject Teaching Credential in California?

How quickly a person can earn their 2042 California Single Subject Teaching Credential depends, of course, on how many courses are taken at a time. At UMass Global, students taking two classes per session can earn their credential in as little as 10 months. A total of 33 credits are required — 24 credits (8 courses) of introductory block and content area block courses, along with two 4.5 credit internship or student teaching sections.

Can I pursue an MA in Teaching with a teaching credential online?

Yes, you can pursue an online Masters degree plus California teaching credential at UMass Global. While most of the coursework is delivered online, there are in-person requirements such as classroom observations, teacher interviews, and student tutoring. Additionally, you'll need to complete an in-person internship or student teaching. However, the 24 credits leading up to your internship can be completed online, making it possible to balance your studies with your current job.

What are the benefits of having a 2042 Single Subject Teaching Credential?

A Single Subject Teaching Credential allows educators to specialize in a subject they're passionate about, offering the opportunity to teach in middle and high schools. This specialization leads to job flexibility, significant impact on students' futures, and personal fulfillment. It opens doors to professional development related to their subject area and can increase marketability, especially in high-demand fields like mathematics, science, and foreign languages. Furthermore, it provides a pathway for career advancement, including roles such as department heads or curriculum developers, making it a rewarding choice for those looking to deeply engage in a specific academic discipline.

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