OBU Debuts Master of Arts in Teaching Program
March 1, 2024
OBU is expanding its educational offerings by introducing its Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, aimed at educators seeking to enhance their teaching careers. Designed to provide advanced pedagogical instruction, educational research, and theory implementation, the MAT program offers a personalized curriculum tailored to individual interests.
With a focus on practical skills and knowledge, the MAT program offers several specialized certificates, including Teaching English as a Second Language, Behavior and Trauma, Alternative Teaching Certificate (ACCESS) and Advanced Teaching Certificate. Each certificate equips educators with the necessary tools to address the diverse needs of students in today's classrooms.
“With the MAT, OBU will invest in educators who want to strengthen their knowledge, skills and expertise in the classroom,” Dr. Elizabeth Justice, director and chair of the McCabe Family School of Education said. “The program will challenge educators to think critically and strategically about the teaching and learning in their classrooms, exposing them to the latest evidence-based practices and research to better support students.”
What sets OBU's MAT program apart is its commitment to quality and affordability. With a cost per credit hour of $375 and total program costs ranging from $11,250 to $13,500, students can pursue a high-quality graduate degree without breaking the bank. Moreover, the program's fully online, asynchronous format allows for flexibility, accommodating the schedules of working professionals and full-time educators.
“Current and future students will have the opportunity to begin their graduate studies through integrated courses, completing a master's degree with one additional year of education at OBU,” Justice said.
The MAT program boasts a roster of experienced faculty members dedicated to the success of their students. Drawing on decades of teaching and leadership experience, these experts provide invaluable insights and mentorship, guiding students toward their professional and personal goals.
“Faculty within the School of Education worked with local and state administrators, teachers, education stakeholders and OBU's Education Advisory Council to better understand the needs of teachers in Oklahoma,” Justice said. “Based on their feedback, the MAT was created to more fully equip teachers to meet the diverse needs of students in today's classrooms.”
Admission to the MAT program requires a completed application, official academic transcripts reflecting a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, a statement of purpose, and a recommendation form, preferably from a current principal for K-12 educators. Additionally, OBU offers an integrated MAT option, allowing both education and non-education majors to seamlessly transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, with the opportunity to earn both bachelor's and master's degrees in an accelerated timeframe.
“Jesus taught people where He found them and met them where they were. This is the heart of OBU's education programs, helping teachers reach all students, meeting them where they are psychologically, spiritually, academically and developmentally,” Justice said. “With the addition of the MAT, OBU's reach and impact on the next generation will be wider and deeper.”
For those interested in starting their journey towards a Master of Arts in Teaching, OBU offers multiple start dates, including summer and fall sessions. The upcoming summer session is scheduled to start May 20 or July 15, offering prospective students the chance to begin their academic pursuits without delay. The fall session is scheduled to begin August 23. For more information and confirmation of start dates, visit the Master of Arts in Teaching program page or contact Allie Blevins, Director of Graduate and Online Recruitment, allie.blevins@okbu.edu or (405) 585-4601.