Online master of arts in teaching (MAT) programs
Boost your education career with an online master's in teaching. Discover if an online MAT program is right for you with this degree guide.
Explore online MAT programs
Build your future in education with an online MAT degree
Trusted university partners
edX collaborates with leading universities to offer online MAT degree programs, making it easier to find a program aligned with your goals.
Optional certificates
Many edX degree programs offer stackable certificates, providing additional credentials that can enhance your résumé in a competitive job market.
Flexible pacing
edX MAT programs feature flexible, asynchronous learning options to help you balance work and family responsibilities.
Online master of arts in teaching (MAT) programs can help you develop the content knowledge and skills new educators need to thrive. Discover what career and pay outcomes to expect with this degree.
Browse accredited online MAT programs
What to expect from an online master of arts in teaching
Online MAT programs help current and prospective teachers deepen their classroom management and teaching skills. These programs usually consist of 30-36 credits and .
Earning an MAT degree online can help you acquire foundational educational skills like balancing diverse learning needs and teaching reading. Additionally, you may also have the option to specialize in a teaching content area like STEM, history, or language arts.
While you can typically complete all coursework for an online MAT program virtually, you may need to fulfill student teaching requirements in person at a nearby school for 1-2 semesters. Non-licensure programs may not require student teaching.
If you attend an out-of-state school, your program may help you find local practica and student teaching placements. Before applying, make sure your prospective program offers help with arranging a practicum and meets your state's licensure requirements. Admissions counselors can help you find this information and make an informed decision.
Is an online MAT degree right for you?
Online MAT programs appeal to aspiring K-12 educators who did not complete teacher preparation as undergraduates. An online for many reasons including:
- Helping you qualify for a state-issued license.
- Pairing you with an experienced educator during student teaching.
- Offering specializations such as literary specialist and special education.
- Preparing you to teach one or more K-12 subjects.
Like other , an online MAT program requires in-person experiences. Practica and student teaching take place during regular business hours. You may need to make life or career changes to fulfill these requirements.
Compare MAT vs. M.Ed. and other education master's degrees
| Degree | Primary focus | Ideal for | Example features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of arts in teaching (MAT) | Subject-specific teaching skills | Aspiring or current K-12 teachers | Content area specializations, student teaching |
| Master of Education (M.Ed.) | Educational leadership and administration | Educators moving into leadership or policy roles | Curriculum development, change management |
| Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) | Practical teaching skills, often STEM-oriented | Educators moving into leadership or policy roles | STEM curriculum design, applied pedagogy |
| Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) | Educational theory and foundational knowledge | Educators moving into leadership or policy roles | Coursework in learning theory and philosophy |
What you can do with an online MAT degree
An online MAT program can prepare you for a variety of education careers, from classroom teaching to student support and curriculum leadership. Some community colleges may also hire experienced teachers with MAT degrees.
Many MAT graduates begin as teachers and later transition into roles like instructional coordinator or school counselor with additional experience and certification. Check your state's licensure requirements for specific roles.
Explore the following potential careers for MAT graduates:
High school teacher
High school teachers have many responsibilities besides classroom instruction, such as mentoring students as they prepare for college or a career. Teachers may also coach a sport or serve as a student organization's faculty advisor.
- Required education: Bachelor's in education or a teacher certification program
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2024): $64,580
Kindergarten or elementary school teacher
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers instruct a single course in all core academic subjects. Other responsibilities include reinforcing positive behavior and supervising learners during recess and lunch.
- Required education: Bachelor's in education or a teacher certification program
- BLS median annual salary (2024): $62,310
Middle school teacher
Unlike elementary school teachers, middle school teachers specialize in 1-2 academic subjects. In and outside of class, they help learners transition from childhood to young adulthood.
- Required education: Bachelor's in education or a teacher certification program
- BLS median annual salary (2024): $62,970
Special education teacher
Special education teachers prepare K-12 learners with physical or mental disabilities to excel in the classroom. Other responsibilities include helping teachers modify their instruction and assessment to meet students' unique needs.
- Required education: Bachelor's in education or a teacher certification program
- BLS median annual salary (2024): $64,270
Admissions requirements for online MAT programs
Admissions requirements for MAT programs vary by school. Many accredited master's programs request the following:
- A from an accredited college or university
- A minimum grade point average of 3.0
- A statement of purpose
How much does an online MAT program cost?
The average graduate tuition for the 2021-22 academic year was $20,513, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. While actual costs vary by school, earning an MAT can support career advancement in roles like high school teacher, instructional coordinator, or school counselor.
Financial aid options
To reduce out-of-pocket costs, consider these funding options:
Grants
- Need-based grants provided by the federal government do not require repayment.
- Eligible MAT students may qualify for the TEACH Grant (up to $4,000 annually) if they commit to teaching in a high-need field at a low-income school.
- Private organizations and foundations may also provide grants through colleges and universities.
Scholarships
- Merit-based or need-based scholarships do not require repayment.
- Offered by schools, nonprofits, or private foundations
Loans
- Loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid.
- Federal loans offer income-based repayment options.
- Private loans may also be available.
Fellowships
- Fellowships are competitive awards that may cover tuition or living expenses.
- They often require teaching commitments or on-campus roles during or after your academic program.
To apply, start by submitting the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and contact your school's financial aid office for institutional aid options.
Frequently asked questions
Not ready to start a full master's program yet?
Earn a MicroMasters® program certificate instead! MicroMasters programs involve a series of graduate-level courses from top universities designed to advance your career. MicroMasters program certificates showcase your deep learning and in-demand skills and can help you on a path toward an advanced degree.