Master of Arts in Teaching: English Language Arts

All students are required to meet the general university admission requirements.

Program-Specific Application Deadlines

Applications are encouraged and accepted year-round. Applicants may apply anytime but should submit their application at least two weeks prior to the start of the semester. The fall semester begins in late August, the spring semester begins in late January, and the summer semester has multiple start options. Reach out to K-State Online (online@k-state.edu) with application questions or check with MAT student success coordinator, TJ Duntz (tduntz@k-state.edu) for course enrollment guidance.

Additional Documentation

• Statement of objectives: You will be asked to answer the following questions in video format within the application. A computer camera and microphone are required. You can record your answers as many times necessary.
• Why are you interested in this program?
• Describe your previous experiences working with children.
• Why do you think you would be a successful teacher?
• Resume
• Names and emails of three professional and/or academic references
• If you are an international student and you need your GPA translated to a 4.0 scale, send your transcripts to tvontz@k-state.edu.
• Applicants whose primary language is not English must submit proof of English Language Proficiency. Applicants must have a satisfactory in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) or Pearson Test of English (PTE). The test date should be no older than 18 months from the application deadline. An applicant who has received a degree in the last two years from a United States college or university is exempt from this requirement.
• Passing PRAXIS test score

PRAXIS Information
You must provide a passing PRAXIS test score for admission:

• English Language Arts (5038)

If there are problems obtaining PRAXIS scores and/or applying for MAT, contact K-State Online. Scores need to be sent to Kansas State (6334) and to the Kansas State University Department of Education (7270).

Graduates of this program will be qualified to teach English Language Arts at a middle or high school. The MAT program enjoys a 97% job placement rate.

Our NEW MAT Secondary Practitioner track provides an additional option and pathway to the classroom. This program allows admitted secondary MAT students to apply for Kansas teaching positions and complete their program while serving as the teacher of record. Students in the secondary practitioner track are required to hold a Restricted License.

Here is how the program works:

• Step 1. Admission to the MAT.
• Step 2. Apply for teaching positions in Kansas. You can reach out to local schools or visit Educate Kansas.
• Step 3. Secure a full-time teaching contract in Kansas. The teaching position must be full time and include at least 50% of FTE in the appropriate subject and grade level. Email TJ Duntz (tduntz@k-state.edu) if you have questions about whether a position will work with the program.
• Step 4. Declare the Practitioner Track with K-State. After securing a teaching position, email TJ Duntz (tduntz@k-state.edu) that you are selecting the practitioner track. At this time, let him know the school, grade level and subjects you are hired to teach.
• Step 5. Advising Meeting: Arrange a meeting time with TJ Duntz (Zoom or Phone) to adjust your enrollment sections, add EDCI 886 Orientation to Teaching (required of all practitioner students), create MAT plan forward and talk through licensing steps.
• Step 6. Apply for a Restricted License through KSDE. Apply for a Restricted License on Form 9.
• Step 7. Successfully complete MAT. Practitioners who are teaching with a Restricted License are required to complete requirements for a Kansas Initial Teaching License within two years.
• Step 8. Recommendation for Kansas Initial Teaching License. Upon successful completion of the MAT and the Praxis Pedagogy (PLT) test, you will be recommended for an initial teaching license.

Questions? Send an email or arrange a call with professor, Tom Vontz (tvontz@k-state.edu).

Curriculum

Pre-requisite Core Courses (9 credits)

• EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 886 - Seminar in C&I (Orientation to Teaching) (3 credits) F, S and U

Practitioner Courses (22 credits)

• EDCI 706 - MAT English-Language Arts Methods (3 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of Education (3 credits) U only
• EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits) F and S
• EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits) F and S
• EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits) WI
• EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits) F and S

Culminating Courses (5 credits)

• EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits) F and S
• EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1 credit) F, S and U

Final Project
You will be required to complete a teaching and learning portfolio during the spring semester.

Technology Requirements
In order to complete your teaching internship, you will be required to obtain a tablet (e.g., iPad) and video recording technology. The combination of these technologies enables real-time and video classroom observations.

This track is for students who pursue the MAT while continuing their current employment.

Pre-requisite Core Courses (6 credits)

• EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits) F, S and U

License-seeking Courses (22 credits)

• EDCI 706 - MAT English-Language Arts Methods (3 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of Education (3 credits) U only
• EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits) F and S
• EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits) F and S
• EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits) F, S and U
• EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits) WI
• EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits) F and S

Culminating Courses (5 credits)

• EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits) F and S
• EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1 credit) F, S and U

Final Project
You will be required to complete a teaching and learning portfolio during the spring semester.

Technology Requirements
In order to complete your teaching internship, you will be required to obtain a tablet (e.g., iPad) and video recording technology. The combination of these technologies enables real-time and video classroom observations.

There are several scholarship and financial aid opportunities available to you, including:

1. Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship: Provides $2,217 per semester for fall and spring. MAT students who apply before May 1 will be placed in a “priority pool.” Applications due May 1.
2. K-State Global Campus Scholarships: Multiple scholarship opportunities are available for MAT students. Provide $1,000-$1,500 per semester. Application deadline is April 1 for the summer, June 1 for the fall and Nov. 1 for the spring.
3. Federal Loan Forgiveness for Teachers: Eligible for those willing to teach in a “low-income school” for five consecutive years. Maximum benefit is $17,500.
4. FAFSA: To maximize your scholarship eligibility, you must complete the FAFSA for the current aid year to be eligible for summer scholarships and the following aid year to be eligible for future fall and spring scholarships. Completion of the FAFSA is required to be eligible for several of the financial assistance programs listed above.
5. Troops to Teachers
6. Additional financial assistance can be found on the scholarships webpage.

MAT Secondary Practitioner FAQs

1. Do I need to mark practitioner on my application? Students can opt-in to the practitioner track at any time after securing a full-time teaching position.

2. Who will serve as my cooperating teacher? Typically, your principal, assistant principal, or department chair serves as the CT though they are not with you in the classroom. MAT practitioners are “teachers of record” and serve on a Restricted License.

3. How do I opt-in to the MAT Practitioner? Follow the steps below.

• • Step 1. Admission to the MAT.
  • Step 2. Apply for teaching positions in Kansas. You can reach out to local schools or visit Educate Kansas.
  • Step 3. Secure a full-time teaching contract in Kansas. The teaching position must be full time and include at least 50% of FTE in the appropriate subject and grade level. Email TJ Duntz (tduntz@k-state.edu) if you have questions about whether a position will work with the program.
  • Step 4. Declare the Practitioner Track with K-State. After securing a teaching position, email TJ Duntz (tduntz@k-state.edu) that you are selecting the practitioner track. At this time, let him know the school, grade level and subjects you are hired to teach.
  • Step 5. Advising Meeting: Arrange a meeting time with TJ Duntz (Zoom or Phone) to adjust your enrollment sections, add EDCI 886 Orientation to Teaching (required of all practitioner students), create MAT plan forward and talk through licensing steps.
  • Step 6. Apply for a Restricted License through KSDE. Apply for a Restricted License on Form 9.
  • Step 7. Successfully complete MAT. Practitioners who are teaching with a Restricted License are required to complete requirements for a Kansas Initial Teaching License within two years.
  • Step 8. Recommendation for Kansas Initial Teaching License. Upon successful completion of the MAT and the Praxis Pedagogy (PLT) test, you will be recommended for an initial teaching license.

  Questions? Send an email or arrange a call with professor, Tom Vontz (tvontz@k-state.edu).

4. Is the curriculum the same for mat practitioners? Practitioners take the same curriculum but are also required to take EDCI 886: Orientation to Teaching (to help prepare you for full-time teaching).
5. Where is the Best Place to Search for Teaching Jobs? Every state is a little different. In Kansas the best place is Educate Kansas.
6. Is There a cap on the Number of Practitioners? No.
7. Are Practitioners Assigned a GradCat? Yes, all practitioners are assigned a GradCat who serves as a mentor, evaluator, and coach throughout the program.

8. As a practitioner, am i still eligible for financial aid? Yes.

9. Do I Need a Passing PRAXIS Test Score to Participate? Secondary Practitioner students need to have a passing PRAXIS score.
10. Is there a time limit to complete the program? KSDE requires students complete their program within two years of apply for their restricted license.
11. What are the possible schedule options for each semester for 12- or 18-month options?

Spring Starters Secondary Practitioner Track (18 months) – 33 credits

• Spring semester
• • EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits)
  • EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (2-3 credits)
  • EDCI 886 - Seminar in Curriculum and Instruction (Orientation to Teaching (2 credits)
• Summer semester
• • EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of K-12 Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI XXX - Subject Area Methods (EDCI 703, 705, 706, 712 or AGED 790) (3 credits)
  • EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits)
• Fall semester
• • EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits)
  • EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits)
  • EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits)
  • EDCI 795 - MAT Research Fair^ (1-3 credits)
• Dec/Jan intersession
• • EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits)
• Spring semester
• • EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits)
  • EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1-5 credit)

^Course if needed to qualify for financial aid.

Summer Starters Secondary Practitioner Track (18 months) – 33 credits

• Summer semester
• • EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits)
  • EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of K-12 Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits)
• Summer/Fall semester
• • EDCI 886 - Seminar in Curriculum and Instruction (Orientation to Teaching (2 credits)
• Fall semester (Restricted eligible)
• • EDCI XXX - Subject Area Methods (EDCI 703, 705, 706, 712 or AGED 790) (3 credits)
  • EDCI 795 - MAT Research Fair^ (1-3 credits)
  • EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits)
  • EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (3 credits)
• Dec/Jan intersession
• • EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits)
• Spring semester
• • EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits)
  • EDCI 795 - MAT Research Fair^ (1-3 credits)
  • EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits)
• Fall semester
• • EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits)
  • EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1-5 credits)

^Course if needed to qualify for financial aid.

Fall Starters Secondary Practitioner Track (18 months) – 33 credits

• Fall semester
• • EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits)
  • EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits)
  • EDCI 886 - Seminar in Curriculum and Instruction (Orientation to Teaching (2-3 credits)
• Spring semester (Restricted eligible)
• • EDCI XXX - Subject Area Methods (EDCI 703, 705, 706, 712 or AGED 790) (3 credits)
  • EDCI 795 - MAT Research Fair^ (1-3 credits)
  • EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits)
  • EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits)
• Summer semester
• • EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of K-12 Education (3 credits)
• Fall semester
• • EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits)
  • EDCI 795 - MAT Research Fair^ (1-3 credits)
  • EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits)
• Dec/Jan intersession
• • EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits)
• Spring semester
• • EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits)
  • EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1-5 credits)

^Course if needed to qualify for financial aid.

Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary License-Seeking FAQs

1. What is the MAT?

   The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) opens a pathway to secondary teaching for career-changers. Students earn a master’s degree and recommendation for a Kansas 6-12 teaching license in agricultural education, English/language arts, mathematics, or social studies OR a Kansas K-12 teaching license in modern languages (Chinese, French, German, Japanese and Spanish). The master’s degree combines rigorous online coursework with field experiences in accredited secondary schools convenient to students in the program. Upon completion, students will be able to apply for teacher certification.

2. How is the program organized?

   The secondary MAT consists of two flexible tracks.

   • Practitioner track: For students who pursue the MAT while teaching full time. Kansas teachers are required to hold a Restricted License.
   • License-seeking track: For students who pursue the MAT while continuing their current employment.
3. When can I apply?

   Applications are accepted year-round. Applicants should plan to apply within two to three months from the start of the semester. The fall semester begins in late August, the spring semester begins in late January and the summer semester begins in mid-May.

4. What is the degree and GPA requirement?

   Bachelor’s degree with sufficient background in the content field and 3.0 GPA overall or in the final two years. Each secondary coordinator reviews transcripts (see below). If your GPA is below 3.0, consult your subject area coordinator for suggestions.

5. Who is my secondary coordinator?
   • Agricultural Education - Dr. Jonathan Ulmer (julmer@k-state.edu)
   • English/Language Arts (ELA) - Dr. Suzanne Porath (sporath@k-state.edu)
   • Mathematics - Dr. Tuan Nguyen (nguyetd1@k-state.edu)
   • Modern Languages - Modern Languages: Dr. Leah McKeeman (leahmac@k-state.edu)
   • Social Studies - Dr. Tom Vontz (tvontz@k-state.edu)
6. What tests are required?

   To be admitted to the program, student must submit a passing PRAXIS score in the designated subject area (Agriculture (5701), Chinese (Mandarin) (5665), English Language Arts (5038), French (5174), German (5183), Mathematics (5165), Social Studies (5081), Spanish (5195). To become certified in Kansas, however, students will also need to complete a background check and pass the Principles of Teaching and Learning 7-12 (PLT 5624). K-State recommends taking the PLT during student teaching.

7. How do students complete field experiences?

   Students complete field (student teaching) experiences in accredited schools near where they currently live. MAT students are required to obtain a device that enables recording such as a tablet or video-enabled phone. The combination of these technologies enables real-time and video classroom observations and evaluation. For questions about your field experience contact Dr. Wertzberger(ejm7777@k-state.edu).

8. Will the degree transfer to other states?

   Kansas has reciprocal licensing agreements with all other states; however, students may be required to complete an additional test or other state-specific requirements (e.g., state history and/or constitution).

9. Is financial aid available?

   Yes, scholarships and financial aid are available to students who meet certain qualifications. All students are eligible to apply for:

   • Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship: Applications due May 1.
   • K-State Global Campus Scholarships: Application deadline is April 1 for the summer, June 1 for the fall and Nov. 1 for the spring.
   • Federal Loan Forgiveness for Teachers: Maximum benefit is $17,500.
   • FAFSA: Completion of the FAFSA is required for many financial assistance programs listed above.
   • Troops to Teachers
10. What is the cost?
    • Tuition is $510.60 per credit hour.
    • 31 credit hours x $510.60=$15,828.60
    • Technology to enable participation in an online program (e.g., laptop and internet)
11. Can I continue to work in my current position?

    Yes. However, during the semester you enroll in EDCI 800 you are required to arrange (with your cooperating teacher/school) 64 hours of teaching experience; during EDCI 801 you will complete 12-weeks of full-time student teaching and will not be able to continue full-time employment.

12. I am a para-educator. Will my job “count” for my field experiences?

    No. Although we might be able to place you in the school in which you work, your work as a para does NOT count toward field experiences. Your field experiences require you to demonstrate additional skills beyond your excellent experiences as a para.

13. How is the curriculum organized?

    Prerequisite Core Courses (6 credits)

    EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits) F, S and U
    EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits) F, S and U

    License-seeking Courses (22 credits)

    EDCI XXX- Subject Specific Methods (EDCI 703, 705, 706, 712, or AGED 790)
    EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of Education (3 credits) U only
    EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits) F and S
    EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits) F and S
    EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits) F, S and U
    EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits) F, S and U
    EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits) WI
    EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits) F and S

    Culminating Courses (5 credits)

    EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits) F and S
    EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1 credit) F, S and U

    Note: Courses are offered the following semesters: F = Fall semester, S = Spring semester and U = Summer semester

    Prerequisites. Successful completion (grade of C or higher) in EDCI 702 and EDCI 716 are required prior to enrolling in any other courses.

    Culminating courses. EDCI 801 and EDCI 890 are required during the last semester and are to be taken concurrently.

14. What are the possible schedule options for each semester for 12- or 18-month options?

Summer Starters Secondary License-Seeking Track (12 months) – 31 credits

• Summer semester
• • EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits)
  • EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of K-12 Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits)
  • EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits)
• Fall semester
• • EDCI XXX - Subject Area Methods (EDCI 703, 705, 706, 712 or AGED 790) (3 credits)
  • EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits)
  • EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits)
  • EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits)
• Dec/Jan intersession
• • EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits)
• Spring semester
• • EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits)
  • EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1 credit)

Fall Starters Secondary License-Seeking Track (18 months) – 31 credits

• Fall semester
• • EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits)
  • EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits)
  • EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits)
• Dec/Jan intersession
• • EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits)
• Spring semester
• • EDCI XXX - Subject Area Methods (EDCI 703, 705, 706, 712 or AGED 790) (3 credits)
  • EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits)
  • EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits)
• Summer semester
• • EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of K-12 Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits)
• Fall semester
• • EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits)
  • EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1 credit)

Spring Starters Secondary License-Seeking Track (18 months) – 31 credits

• Fall semester
• • EDCI 702 - Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (3 credits)
  • EDCI 716 - Teaching Diverse Learners (3 credits)
• Summer semester
• • EDCI 710 - Social Foundations of K-12 Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 797 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium I (2 credits)
  • EDCI XXX - Subject Area Methods (EDCI 703, 705, 706, 712 or AGED 790) (3 credits)
• Fall semester
• • EDCI 715 - Literacy in Content (3 credits)
  • EDCI 798 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium II (2 credits)
  • EDCI 800 - Teaching Practicum (2 credits)
• Dec/Jan intersession
• • EDCI 799 - Secondary Content Field Colloquium III (2 credits)
• Spring semester
• • EDCI 760 - Action Research in Education (3 credits)
  • EDCI 801 - Internship in K-12 Schools (4 credits)
  • EDCI 890 - Master’s Project (1 credit)

NOTE: Students may wish to add EDCI 795 (3 Credits) during any semester or additional hours to EDCI 890 during student teaching to qualify as a full-time student.