Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Middle Level Education | Department of Education | The University of Vermont(title)

Make a lasting impact on your community and the world. Launch a rewarding career in high demand where you can apply your degree and share your passion while inspiring future generations.

Through our nationally accredited program, you can launch a rewarding career by earning your master's degree and licensure to teach (grades 5-9). 

Teaching is a Work of Heart Graduation Cap worn by a graduate at Commencement

With a strong focus on developmentally and culturally responsive educational needs of this age group, our program prepares you to make a real difference in the lives of students during a critical stage in youth development. 

Your can choose to complete the program full-time in one year, or part-time in two years.

Internship: Gaining Experience in the Field

Student teaching intern works with students on a hands-on science project.

Learn the profession and sharpen your skills as an educator through a full-year, hands-on internship in a school working under the mentorship of experienced teachers and our nationally recognized faculty.

Scholarship Support

To help you fund your degree, we offer graduate tuition scholarships are available for qualified candidates in all licensure areas (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies).

High Job Placement Rate, Multiple Licensure Options, and Mobility to Teach Almost Anywhere

Our graduates are in great demand to be hired for teaching positions. Because our nationally accredited program enjoys reciprocity with most other states, you will be qualified to teach throughout the country. 

Earning a teaching license along with endorsements in multiple content areas give you an advantage in the job market, and a master's degree equates to a higher pay scale. 

We are happy to help you determine your next steps for licensure in one or more content areas (Math, Science, Social Studies, and English).

"UVM's philosophy on internships is all about getting students into the schools, and the thing I liked most was that I was in the classroom for a whole year." – Winooski Middle School Teacher Chris Magistrale, UVM MAT alum

Choose Your Pathway

Traditional Pathway: If you already earned your bachelor’s degree, or if you are a senior at the UVM without room for 3-9 middle level education credits before graduation, you can complete the program full-time in one year or choose a more flexible part-time option.

Accelerated Master's Pathway (AMP): If you are an undergraduate student (junior or senior) at UVM with room in your schedule to take middle level education courses (3-9 credits) before graduation, our Accelerated Master’s Pathway (AMP) is a great opportunity to save time and money by beginning MAT coursework early. 

Core Values and Themes in a Distinctive Vermont Context

  • Place-based, problem-based, and project-based learning
  • Social justice and sustainability education to engage young adolescents in democratic citizenship
  • Best practices that address the nature and needs of young adolescents
  • Interdisciplinary teaching approaches that promote student voice in their learning
  • Personalized and proficiency-based curriculum designed to support learning and growth

Become Part of the Middle Level Education Community

MAT students work together on a hand-on science activity outdoors.

Your cohort will experience coursework and internships together as you learn from nationally acclaimed professors who are top scholars and researchers in the field. The support and dynamics of your cohort are an essential part of your success. In our small seminar-style classes we work together to model what you practice with students in your internship. 

Our faculty will connect you with the vibrant local and national middle level education community. Engage with the the Middle Grades Collaborative and attend regional and national conferences with your cohort. There are also study abroad opportunities to engage and learn with other cultures.

Professional Development

You will be eligible for funded attendance — including registration, airfare, and housing — to the Association for Middle Level Education national conference, and the New England League of Middle Schools regional conference. These fully-funded opportunities are subject to the continued support from a generous donor.

Faculty

Formerly middle school teachers, our faculty are nationally recognized for innovative teaching and research in middle level education. 

How to Apply

  • Review the MAT Application and Admissions information before you apply.
  • Application Deadlines: Rolling admissions until the April 1 deadline. Apply in the Spring for Fall admission. Apply in the Fall for Spring admission.

Apply Now

Information Sessions (Online)

Meet our team and learn more about the program at one of our virtual information sessions.

Contact Us