Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Progressive Degree

Program Overview

Through the MAT progressive degree, you can fast track the completion of both your undergraduate degree and Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program will allow you to complete the requirements to be recommended for a California preliminary teaching credential. The program also includes preparation for the English Language Learner Authorization and Education Specialist Credential,* which includes the additional autism authorization.

*Additional exams and student teaching are required to obtain the Education Specialist credential

Familiarize yourself with the Master of Arts in Teaching program, including the curriculum, cost of attendance, credential tracks and credential requirements, prior to applying to the progressive degree. Progressive degree students are not able to enroll in the Master of Arts in Teaching online (MAT online) program through the progressive degree. 

USC Rossier Minor Pathway

If you enroll in one of USC Rossier’s minor programs while an undergraduate student, you can waive courses in the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program with courses completed in the minor. 

Minor in Education and Society 

Minor in Dynamics of Early Childhood

Traditional Pathway 

If you apply to a progressive degree program without prior coursework in a USC Rossier minor, you will need to complete all required coursework for the MAT degree. However, as a progressive degree student, you will begin MAT program coursework prior to completing your undergraduate degree.

Financial Aid

Progressive degree students are classified as undergraduate students until their undergraduate degree is conferred or they complete 144 units, whichever comes first. Review the USC Financial Aid webpage about progressive degree programs and contact USC Financial Aid with questions about progressive degree programs and your unique financial situation.

Scholarships

Use USC Rossier’s scholarship finder to identify external scholarships and funding opportunities. You do not have to be admitted to apply to these scholarships. Carefully note the scholarship application deadlines, which may occur before the program application deadline.

Admission Information

Note regarding felonies and misdemeanors: To obtain a teaching credential, the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) requires credential applicants to disclose convictions of a felony or misdemeanor. While a felony or misdemeanor will not necessarily prevent you from being admitted to the program, you may not be eligible to participate in student teaching, which is a requirement of the program.

Note regarding international students: To complete teaching credential requirements, you must obtain a Social Security number (SSN) from the United States Social Security Administration. Contact the Office of International Services for assistance.