What's the difference between an MAT and an M.Ed. degree?

An advanced degree in education can grow your career as a teacher or education leader. Learn what to expect from MAT and M.Ed. programs.

MAT vs. M.Ed. degrees

A master of arts in teaching (MAT) provides advanced education for current or future elementary, middle, or high school teachers. An MAT typically explores curriculum development, assessment, and teaching methods.

A master of education (M.Ed.) prepares students for leadership and research-based roles in education. M.Ed. programs often cover instructional leadership, school ethics and law, and change management.

MAT and M.Ed. programs usually require students to complete 30-36 credits. However, M.Ed. curriculums focus more on leadership and professional development, while MAT programs often develop teaching strategies in specific subject areas or grade levels, like STEM or secondary education.

Compare costs

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost for graduate tuition and fees for the 2021-22 academic year was $20,513.

Tuition rates for MAT and M.Ed. programs can vary significantly based on several factors, like school reputation and whether a school is private or public. Some schools may also charge different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students or charge an exclusive online tuition rate to reduce costs for distance learners.

When comparing the cost of programs, also consider additional expenses not commonly covered by tuition and fees, including:

• Textbooks
• Housing
• Transportation
• School supplies
• Technology, like laptops and software

Federal student aid and school-based financial aid may be available for your MAT or M.Ed. program. Scholarships and grants can reduce what you pay for tuition and fees and don't need to be paid back. Loans can help you pay for your education over several years, but you'll need to repay them.

Some schools may also offer teaching assistantships, which provide financial assistance in exchange for working under faculty supervision.

Explore potential careers and salaries

MAT programs generally lead to classroom-based roles, like a primary or secondary school teacher or special education teacher. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), special education teachers earned a median annual salary of $65,910 as of May 2023. Meanwhile, the Bureau reported that kindergarten and elementary school, middle school, and high school teachers earned average salaries of $63,670, $64,290, and $65,220, respectively, during the same period.

M.Ed. programs are more leadership-focused, creating pathways to school principal, instructional coordinator, and postsecondary administrator roles. BLS data from May 2023 reports median annual salaries of $103,460 for school principals, $74,620 for instructional coordinators, and $102,610 for postsecondary administrators.

Discover courses and curriculums

MAT and M.Ed. programs typically require 30-36 credits and take 1-2 years to complete. However, their emphasis and curriculums differ.

MAT programs may offer concentrations in specific subject areas, like STEM or English; or grade levels, like elementary or secondary education. You'll learn educational theory and student-focused teaching strategies. MAT programs often include a teaching internship, which allows you to apply your knowledge and skills in the classroom.

M.Ed. programs more commonly include concentrations in educational disciplines, like educational leadership, Deaf education, or reading education. Their curriculums focus on research, assessment, diversity and inclusivity, and educational leadership.

Some M.Ed. programs may require you to complete an internship if you choose to pursue a teaching licensure or position as a principal. If you choose non-licensure pathways, you might complete a thesis or capstone project.

Review admissions requirements

The admissions requirements for MAT and M.Ed. programs tend to be similar, although some schools may have stricter requirements than others.

For either program, you usually need to submit:

• Official transcripts
• A résumé
• Up to three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

Most programs require a minimum of a 3.0 GPA on undergraduate coursework. An additional writing sample and a proven academic or professional background in your chosen concentration area may also be required for MAT admissions.

MAT vs. M.Ed.: Which should you choose?

When deciding between MAT vs. M.Ed. programs, think about the career you want to pursue.

If you're a current teacher or considering a teaching career, an MAT can enhance your teaching skills and allow you to specialize in a particular content area. Meanwhile, an M.Ed. is often the better option for outside-the-classroom roles in education, like school administrators and educational policymakers.

Compare program goals, costs, curriculums, admissions criteria, and student teaching requirements to find your best fit.