A forward-thinking approach to confront the realities of today’s classrooms
The MAT@USC is specifically designed to help you develop the skills needed to be a great teacher in today’s classrooms. More than a disparate collection of courses, the MAT@USC was conceived and developed to consistently and effectively address the growing educational needs of an ever-changing population. With a focus on preparing teachers for high-needs schools and challenging circumstances, the program is uniquely designed to prepare teachers for satisfying, rewarding careers, no matter where they choose to practice.
Developed by renowned USC faculty, the curriculum is grounded in the most current research related to teacher preparation and tackles head-on many of the problems that teachers face in today’s classrooms. Course content is continuously updated to reflect the changing needs in education.
Hear more about program curriculum from our faculty:
Coursework is divided into four broad categories that provide students with theoretical foundations, teaching strategies and the practical experiences necessary for successful entry into the teaching profession.
| Category | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Foundations | Provide in-depth knowledge in sociological and psychological theories and their application in the classroom. Foundations classes also introduce students to the latest strategies for infusing technology into instruction. |
| Teaching Methods | Lay the foundation for teaching linguistically and ethnically diverse students in urban schools. Courses introduce students to planning, implementing, and assessing instruction across all content areas. |
| Language and Literacy | Ground students in the theories of language and literacy for both primary and second language learners and the application of these concepts across all content areas. Language and literacy issues are at the forefront of educational reform efforts nationally and globally. |
| Supervised Field Experience and Guided Practice | Supervised field experiences are an integral part of most MAT courses. From the beginning of the program, students are placed in local classrooms to learn practical applications of theories and instructional methods from experienced teachers. Students who seek certification complete student teaching, also known as Guided Practice. |
Earning Your Teaching Credential
If your goal is to also earn your teaching credential, the MAT@USC is designed to prepare you for Multiple Subject (Elementary Education), English, Mathematics, Science or Social Studies. By successfully completing the program, you can be recommended for a California teaching credential, which you can then transfer to another state through interstate reciprocity. You may also complete the program and apply directly to your local state’s credential.
For a complete list of state testing requirements, please visit our Certification Map; a simple, effective way to determine the requirements needed to become a teacher in your state.
Click here to learn more about this groundbreaking program today.
