MAT - A route to a Master's Degree and certification for future educators with a Bachelor’s degree
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are involved in nearly every aspect of our lives. Basic math and science knowledge provide individuals with the skills to make important, informed life decisions. Science teachers play a pivotal role in developing critical thinkers and scientifically literate citizens. Nearly two million new teachers will be needed in
the next decade. In particular, science is considered a “shortage” area, and science teachers are in high demand.
At Southern, we prepare our Biology MAT students to be ambitious science teachers, who deliberately aim to support students of all backgrounds to deeply understand science ideas, participate in the activities of the discipline, and solve real-world problems. As a student in the Biology MAT Program at Southern, you will work with professors and scholars who are experts in their fields to develop a strong theoretical and practical foundation for what constitutes effective science teaching. Extensive and embedded clinical experiences in a variety of middle and/or high school Biology classrooms will support your growth as an educator by helping you bridge knowledge from your coursework with the realities of classroom practice. Further, you will have the opportunity to dig deeper into an area of your interest related to Biology education by conducting research that explores answers to the pressing questions and challenges of science teaching and learning today.
Upon completion of the 45.5. credit Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Biology program, qualified candidates are recommended to the Connecticut Department of Education for their initial Biology 7-12 certification, and will receive a Master's degree. Applicants interested in this program should already have a Bachelor's degree in Biology, or a closely related field. This program is not for teachers who already hold a science teaching certification.