Performing Arts, M.A.T.

Program Snapshot

Degree: Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)
Delivery Format: On-Campus
Credits Required: 42 credits
Typical Completion Time: 2 Years, Part-Time

Overview

The Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Performing Arts prepares aspiring educators to inspire creativity and artistic expression in K–12 classrooms. Designed for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in music, theatre or a related field, the program equips students with the knowledge and teaching strategies needed to become effective arts educators.

Students engage in a combination of coursework, performance-based learning and supervised field experiences that connect artistic practice with classroom instruction.

Through these experiences, candidates learn how to design engaging lessons, guide student creativity and integrate performing arts into meaningful educational experiences.

Students may choose from two concentrations:

Theatre – Explore theatre literature, acting and directing techniques, production design and staging while learning how to teach theatre in school settings.
Choral Music – Develop expertise in vocal pedagogy, conducting, choral literature and ensemble leadership while preparing to teach music at multiple grade levels.

These pathways prepare graduates to bring both artistic expertise and strong instructional practices into the classroom.

Who Should Apply

This program is ideal for:

Classroom teachers seeking advanced instructional and leadership skills
Education professionals focused on curriculum, advocacy, or organizational change
Individuals preparing for specialized roles in educational policy or administration

Careers and Outcomes

Graduates of the M.A.T. in Performing Arts are prepared to become certified performing arts educators in K–12 schools. The program addresses a nationwide shortage of qualified arts teachers, creating strong employment opportunities for graduates.

Graduates often pursue careers such as:

K–12 theatre teacher
K–12 music or choral teacher
Performing arts program director
Arts education specialist

Because music and theatre are consistently identified as national teacher shortage areas, graduates frequently secure teaching positions both locally and across the United States soon after completing the program.

Curriculum

Program Requirements

Credit Hours: 42
Fieldwork, Two Semesters

Required Core Coursework (21 Credit Hours)

EDFS 501 Introduction to Exceptional Children and Youth
OR
EDEE 509 Teaching Diverse Learners

EDFS 550 Classroom and Behavior Management
OR
EDEE 507 Creating Effective Learning Communities

EDFS 654 Human Growth and Development
EDFS 794 Clinical Practice in Music Education, Theatre, or Dance Education (9)
MTLA 648 Teaching Content Area and Disciplinary Literacies

Choral Music Concentration (21 Credit Hours)

MUSE 501 Graduate Choral Ensemble (1)
MUSE 610 Foundations and Elementary Music Education Methods
MUSE 602 Vocal Pedagogy (2)*
MUSE 611 Middle Grades and Secondary Music Methods*
MUSE 701 Graduate Conducting
MUSE 702 Collaboration and the Musical Classroom
MUSE 703 Choral Music Literature Seminar (2)
MUSE 704 Trends and Critical Issues in Performing Arts Education: Music

Based on assessment while in the program:

MUSP 512 Applied Music: Piano (1)
OR
MUSP 515 Applied Music: Voice (1)
OR
MUSE 685 Independent Study in Music (1-3)

Theatre Concentration (21 Credit Hours)

THRE 521 Community and the Theatrical Classroom (3)
THRE 522 Theatre for Youth Literature (3)
THRE 611 Design with Schools in Mind (3)
THRE 612 Advanced Acting and Directing Techniques for the K12 Teacher (3)
THRE 704 Trends and Issues in Performing Arts Education: Theatre (3)
THRE 710 Foundations Preschool and Elementary Theatre Education Methods (3) *
THRE 711 Middle and Secondary Theatre Education Methods (3) *

All courses are three (3) credit hours unless otherwise notated.

In the area of theatre, the requirements for graduate study are specified by the NAST accrediting body and the requirements of the State Department of Education for teacher certification. Assigned field experiences total a minimum of 75 clock hours and are required during the theatre methods courses as indicated by an asterisk (*).

Admissions Requirements

In addition to meeting institutional admission requirements, applicants are expected to demonstrate an overall A/B average in previous college work or preparation judged to be equivalent.

Statement of purpose or goals describing academic and professional interests
Professional résumé or curriculum vitae.
Two (2) academic or professional references

Admissions decisions are reviewed holistically, considering academic preparation, professional experience, and fit with program goals. The M.A.T. program is designed for both full-time and part-time students. Criteria and standards for admission are the same for full-time and part-time students.

Graduate Tuition & Financial Information

Graduate tuition for the School of Education is based on credit hours. Estimated rates for 2025-2026 are:

South Carolina Educator Rate: $499/credit

Non-Educator Rate: $570/credit

Fees are not included.

For the purposes of the South Carolina public educator tuition discount, a public educator is defined as an individual employed by a public school, public school district, public charter school, or public higher education institution in the State. This includes:

P–12 educators and staff: classroom teachers, administrators, counselors, specialists, district leaders, and school support staff (including office personnel, custodians, cafeteria workers, and bus drivers).
Charter school employees: faculty, staff, and administrators serving public charter schools.
Higher education personnel: faculty and staff at South Carolina’s public colleges and universities.

Exact costs vary by enrollment status and term; course fees may apply.

Graduate students may pursue financial aid, assistantships, and scholarship opportunities through the Graduate School.

For the most current rates, review the Tuition and Financial Aid portion of the Graduate School website.

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