Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education


Make a difference. Build your community.

Our MAT in Elementary Education program at the College of Charleston:

  • is designed for students with an undergraduate degree in a discipline other than teacher education; 
  • prepares candidates for South Carolina licensure for teaching second through sixth grade.
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How to Apply


The entire application process is online. The documents outlined below are required components of the application. A file is not complete until all documents have been submitted and processed, so read carefully and prepare your application materials in advance of applying.
  • Dates & Deadlines

    Fall 

    • Priority: January 15 
    • Final: July 1 

    Summer 

    • Priority: January 15 
    • Final: April 1 

    Spring 

    • Priority: November 1 
    • Final: December 1 
  • Admission Criteria

    • Official transcripts from all academic institutions
    • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 
    • Official Praxis Core Score that reflects a passing grade 
    • Official TOEFL scores if your primary language is not English 
    • Professional résumé and two letters of recommendation regarding your academic work/experience (one from someone who has observed you working with children). 
    • A statement of purpose describing why the candidate seeks to pursue the M.A.T. program and a career in teaching.  
    • Statement of ability to perform essential teaching duties under the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Why earn your m.a.t. in elementary education at the college of charleston?


Students participate in intensive, supervised field experiences across multiple grade levels. You will gain hands-on experience while studying theory and practice. You will study topics like literacy, course design, strategies for diverse learners and more. Take electives like cultural diversity, the needs of gifted and talented students, community relationships and more. You will receive personalized attention and mentorship.

“I finally realized that education was my passion and returned to The College for my master's in teaching in elementary education. My time and experience at College of Charleston is invaluable to me, and I am grateful to the dedicated professors and our very unique school in the heart of Charleston.” - Rebecca Kukulka ‘10

Careers & Outcomes


Our students obtain teaching positions both locally and nationally. Successful completion of the M.A.T. program requirements leads to recommendation for teaching certification/licensure in grades 2 – 6 in South Carolina, in addition to a master's degree. The State of South Carolina has reciprocal licensure agreements with many State Departments of Education across the United States. Teacher Education Program requirements are described in detail in a candidate information packet. This packet is sent to the candidate prior to meeting with an advisor to complete a program of study.