Initial Teacher Certification - Middle School Education (MAT) Alt Cert

Get an in-depth look at Middle School Education (MAT) Alt Cert

Scholarships and Funding Accreditation Graduate Assistantships

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The CEHD prepares future teachers who are committed to helping every student learn. The MAT program emphasizes meeting the needs of the individual learner through understanding and using the best instructional practices in a standards-based environment. Through coursework and clinical field experiences, UofL teacher education students become critical thinkers who are prepared to meet the demands of 21st century schools. 

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View the general admission requirements and degree requirements for Middle School Education (MAT) here
 

M.A.T in Middle School Education (Alt Cert)

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Application Deadline (Spring Admission): October 15 
Application Deadline (Summer Admission): April 15 

Have you always wanted to be a teacher? Are you looking for a new or second career in teaching? If so, the Alternative Certification program could be the next career path for you! 

The desire to make a difference in the lives of children and communities is the most important factor in considering the teaching profession. Candidates for teacher education should be willing to challenge old assumptions, explore new approaches to learning, and work energetically toward a rewarding career. 

The MAT Alternative Certification program offers the following certification options: 

  • Elementary (K-5)
  • Middle Grades (5-9): Language Arts, Science, Math or Social Studies
  • Secondary (8-12): Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, English, Mathematics, Physics, and Social Studies
  • World Language (P-12): Spanish or French 

MAT Program Benefits 

  • CAEP accredited program. For information on program accreditation click here.
  • Student support services in advising, admission and certification
  • First-year students work as a cohort through University coursework
  • Urban mission with focus on social justice and equity
  • Dedicated faculty researchers and practitioners
  • Simultaneous degree and certification
  • Partnership with local school districts
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Testing support 

Teacher education candidates should visit the Educator Preparation Program page and review the expectations listed under the "Review These Teaching Profession Expectations" section.

Please visit the Educator Preparation Program page and read items listed under "Admission Requirement Details" for more in-depth information regarding admission requirements for this program.

Click on a course name (ex. "EDTP 633") in the degree requirements for further information about courses. Information includes class description, prerequisites (if any), terms offered, among other information.

TEACH Grant 

Through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, Congress created the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program that provides up to $4,000 per year to those who intend to teach in a public or private school that serves students from low-income families. Teachers must be certified in a high-need field. (Amount is pro-rated based on part-time or full-time status up to a maximum of $8,000 for graduate students.) 

Applicants must complete the FAFSA (although financial need is not required) and be admitted to a teacher certification program. Applicants must score above the 75th percentile on a college admission test or maintain a cumulative gpa of 3.25 for eligibility. 

Recipients must teach for a minimum of four years within eight calendar years of completing the teacher certification program. Those who fail to complete the service obligation must re-pay the loan, with interest charged form the first date of disbursement. 

Candidates considering application to the MAT program should contact the MAT admissions counselor (teacher@louisville.edu) BEFORE applying to the teacher education program. 

For further information please contact stefanie.wootenburnett@louisville.edu 

Department Contact 

Stefanie Wooten-Burnett 
College of Education and Human Development 
University of Louisville 
Louisville, KY 40292 
502-852-8053

Department email: midscnd@louisville.edu