Master of Arts in Teaching in Performing Arts

Are you passionate about music or theatre and eager to inspire the next generation?

Our M.A.T. in Performing Arts offers a dynamic environment for aspiring teachers, backed by a rich history of excellence. You will immerse in theory, practice and hands-on experiences. You can choose from one of two concentrations to tailor your interests. You will gain the skills to help students explore their creativity in the classroom. Get ready to make a difference in your community!

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Why earn your M.A.T. in performing arts at the College of Charleston?

  • Booming Job Market: Address critical teacher shortages in music and theatre, ensuring excellent job prospects upon graduation.
  • Key Partnerships: Benefit from our strong relationships with local county schools in Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester. Our active graduate student organization and friendly graduate office offer unwavering support. Access outstanding career opportunities post-graduation.
  • Expert Faculty: Our M.A.T. in Performing Arts is accredited by NCATE, ensuring the highest quality of education. Our experienced faculty members have merged their expertise into an M.A.T. program that elevates you as both a teacher and a performer.
  • Charleston's Arts & Culture: Immerse yourself in Charleston's exceptional arts and culture scene, including the renowned Spoleto Festival USA. Year-round, the city buzzes with music, theatre, dance and visual arts events. Enjoy exquisite dining, vibrant nightlife and family-friendly activities in this city brimming with Southern charm.

Earn Your M.A.T. in Performing Arts with one of the following concentrations:

  • Theatre Concentration
    Our theater concentration offers an enriching curriculum. You'll explore theater literature. Enhance your production analysis skills. You will gain practical experience in design and construction within school theaters. You’ll be introduced to advanced acting and directing techniques. You will refine your staging and production management abilities. Stay updated on trends in theater education as you explore community-based theater outreach. Embark on a journey to inspire young theater enthusiasts. You will impact your community through our comprehensive theater concentration!
  • Choral Music Concentration
    Our Choral Concentration nurtures your love for choral music and empowers you with expertise. Highlights include advanced vocal training, vocal pedagogy and choral ensemble experience. You will take a comprehensive curriculum encompassing elementary to high school education methods. Develop conducting mastery and explore diverse choral literature. Stay informed on critical arts education issues. Choose this concentration to emerge as a skilled choral performer and dedicated educator. Get ready to inspire future vocal artists!

“I selected the College because I wanted to pursue theatre in a teaching and therapeutic format. Teaching performing arts will act as a steppingstone for my final goal of becoming a drama therapist.” - Heather Roberts, M.A.T. Performing Arts, ‘17

Careers & Outcomes

Since 2004, music, theatre, art and dance have been on the National Teacher Shortage Areas list, indicating a high demand for certified arts teachers. Our program produces certified K-12 music and theatre teachers who find immediate job opportunities not only locally but across the nation, from Boston to LA. Join us and take your first step towards shaping the future of education through the performing arts. 

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

    Spring

    • Priority: November 1 
    • Final: December 1

    Summer

    • Priority: January 15 
    • Final: April 1

    Candidates who submit a completed application by the priority deadline will automatically be considered for Graduate School and/or graduate program funding. Join us today to embark on an exciting journey towards becoming a certified arts educator. 

  • Admission Criteria

    To apply, ensure you meet the following requirements: 

    • Completed application form with a $60 nonrefundable application fee. 
    • Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework. 
    • An earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. 
    • International applicants, please refer to the International Students section for documentation requirements. 

    Admission to our program requires meeting specific criteria based on your chosen concentration. For Choral Music and Theatre Concentrations, please review the detailed requirements on our Catalog.