This is an archived copy of the 2022-2023 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.valdosta.edu.

Initial Clear/Renewable Certification

The M.A.T. program is designed for candidates who already have their undergraduate degree and who have satisfied content requirements in the area(s) in which they want to teach. The M.A.T. program offers initial certification to candidates in Middle Grades Education. Candidates select two areas from the following: English, reading, mathematics, social studies, and science.

The M.A.T. is also offered for secondary education programs (grades 6-12) in English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, history, or political science. Options are available for teachers currently employed with a temporary certificate and for prospective middle and secondary level teachers who do not currently hold certification.

Selected Educational Outcomes

  1. Students in initial teacher education programs demonstrate knowledge of the content that they plan to teach and can explain important principles and concepts delineated in professional, state, and institutional standards.
  2. Students in initial teacher education programs apply content specific pedagogy to the subject area content and demonstrate a broad knowledge of instructional strategies that draws upon content and pedagogical knowledge and skills delineated in professional, state, and institutional standards to help students learn.
  3. Students in initial teacher education programs analyze educational research findings and incorporate new information into their practice.
  4. Students in initial teacher education programs assess and analyze student learning, make appropriate adjustments to instruction, monitor student learning, and have a positive effect on learning for all students.

Examples of Outcome Assessments

  1. Students in initial teacher education programs demonstrate content knowledge through passing the state-required content assessment.
  2. Students in initial teacher education programs demonstrate pedagogical content knowledge and knowledge of evidence-based strategies through development of lesson plans identifying use of research-validated procedures and effective content pedagogy.
  3. Students in initial teacher education programs demonstrate skills in assessment, instructional strategies, use of technology, and monitoring and modifying instruction during observed teaching episodes evaluated by a university supervisor and 4-12 mentor teacher.
  4. Students in initial teacher education programs demonstrate their ability to positively impact P-12 learning through a Teacher Work Sample (TWS).

Prior to admission to any graduate program at Valdosta State University, applicants must first submit a completed application to the Graduate School. A completed application packet includes official transcripts from all institutions previously attended, official test scores (GRE or MAT), completed application form, fee, and any additional program requirements submitted by the admission deadline. To be considered for the preferred term, all required materials must be received by the Graduate School no later than the close of business on the deadline. It is the responsibility of the applicant to allow adequate time for document submission and to ensure receipt of documents.

Go to the Graduate School website and click on Our Programs, then click on Alternative Certification Track for information on:

  • Specific M.A.T. (selected option) Program Admission Requirements
  • M.A.T. (selected option) Program Retention, Dismissal, and Readmission Policies
  • M.A.T. (selected option) Program Graduation Requirements

To Apply Online, click here

Employed Teacher Track

The Employed Teacher Track is for those who are currently teaching on a non-renewable/induction certificate. It is designed as a two-year program; after successfully completing the first six courses (MSED 5600, MSED 6001, MSED 6002, MSED 6004, MSED 6010, and MSED 6020), passing the GACE at the Induction or Professional level, and earning a passing score on EdTPA, candidates may be recommended for initial certification at Level 4. At the end of the second year (additional 15 credit hours), candidates may earn a master's degree (M.A.T.) and be eligible to upgrade their certification to Level 5.

EDUC 2999Teacher Education Requirements0
MSED 5600Content Teaching Methods of Middle Grades or Secondary Education3
MSED 6001Planning for Middle or Secondary Teaching3
MSED 6002Assessment in Middle or Secondary Education3
MSED 6004Content Area Literacy for Middle and Secondary Teachers3
MSED 6010Employed Teacher Track Internship 13
MSED 6020Employed Teacher Track Internship 25
MSED 6021Clinical Seminar Employed Teacher Track1
MSED 6000Written and Verbal Communication for Teachers3
MSED 6003Differentiation and Multicultural Education in Middle or Secondary Education3
MSED 6005Educational Philosophy, Law and Ethics3
MSED 6300MAT Capstone3
RSCH 7100Research Methodology in Education3
Total Hours Required for the Degree36

There are requirements in addition to the above that candidates must complete before being recommended for certification, including SPEC 3000 (or equivalent). Technology knowledge and skills are demonstrated through coursework because technology requirements are embedded throughout the program of study.

Full-Time Student Track

The Full-Time Student Track of the M.A.T. is a fifth-year program beyond the bachelor's degree and is a full-time program in which candidates may earn an M.A.T. and be eligible for an induction certificate (once employed) or a certificate of eligibility (while seeking employment) after meeting all program requirements, passing the GACE at the Induction or Professional level, and earning a passing score on EdTPA.

EDUC 2999Teacher Education Requirements0
MSED 6001Planning for Middle or Secondary Teaching3
MSED 6002Assessment in Middle or Secondary Education3
MSED 6004Content Area Literacy for Middle and Secondary Teachers3
MSED 6000Written and Verbal Communication for Teachers3
MSED 6003Differentiation and Multicultural Education in Middle or Secondary Education3
MSED 6005Educational Philosophy, Law and Ethics3
Select one of the following3
Mathematics Methods for Middle Grades or Secondary Education
Science Methods for Middle Grades or Secondary Education
Social Science Methods for Middle Grades or Secondary Education
English/Language Arts Methods for Middle Grades or Secondary Education
Methods of Teaching Reading for Middle Grades or Secondary Education
MSED 6100Apprenticeship in Teaching3
MSED 6200Student Teaching5
MSED 6201Clinical Seminar Full-time Student Track1
MSED 6300MAT Capstone3
RSCH 7100Research Methodology in Education3
Total Hours Required for the Degree36

There are requirements in addition to the above that candidates must complete before being recommended for certification, including SPEC 3000 (or equivalent). Technology knowledge and skills are demonstrated through coursework because technology requirements are embedded throughout the program of study. Additional technology coursework may be recommended through SEED 4010, ACED 3400, or ACED 7600.