KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY
Kansas State University’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program is helping career changers across the country take their next step into the classroom with a flexible, fully online graduate degree that leads to dual teacher certification.
The MAT program prepares graduates for K–6 licensure in both elementary general education and special education—earning an Elementary Education Unified (K-6) license in just 34–36 credit hours. Students benefit from K-State’s nationally ranked education program, recently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 20 online education master’s degrees in the nation.
A Pathway for Career Changers
Designed for those seeking a second career in education, the MAT offers an affordable and convenient path toward teaching. All students pay in-state tuition, regardless of residency, and more than 70% receive financial assistance through scholarships like the K-State Online Scholarship.
Flexible and Supportive Learning
Students can complete the program in as little as 16 months or work at their own pace while taking courses online. The MAT also provides two distinct tracks:
Practitioner Track: For students already teaching full-time under a Limited Elementary Residency Program (LERP) License.
License-Seeking Track: For students preparing to enter the classroom for the first time.
Each student is paired with a GradCat — a master teacher who provides mentorship, coaching, and evaluation throughout the program.
Preparing Educators for Today’s Classrooms
The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices including Universal Design for Learning (UDL), intensive intervention and data-based individualization (DBI), and social-emotional learning. Students gain hands-on experience through student teaching placements in their local communities.
Graduates are eligible to apply for a Kansas K–6 Initial Teaching License, which can be transferred to other states following each state’s additional requirements.
“The MAT program recognizes that one size does not fit all,” the College of Education notes. “We prepare educators to be knowledgeable, ethical, and caring decision makers for a changing world.”
For more information or to apply, visit online.k-state.edu.