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Frequently Asked Questions

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

  • What can I do with an MAT degree? The MAT program prepares you to teach in the public or private school system, either at the Early Childhood/Elementary grade levels or the Middle/High School levels.
  • How long is the MAT program? The program starts in mid-July and continues through July of the following year.  The program extends over thirteen months with some short breaks.  You may stop in June to receive licensure, but to complete the degree, you must attend both summers.
  • How many credits is the MAT Program? The MAT program is approximately 55 graduate-level credits.
  • Can I start the program in the middle of the year?  Our program is designed on the cohort model, which requires you to start in July and go through the complete program with your cohort.
  • What is a cohort?  Your cohort is the group of students with whom you enter the program.  This same group will attend all classes with you throughout the year.  There is one elementary and one secondary cohort each year.
  • Can I get an MAT degree if I live outside of La Grande?  Yes! Our extended campus program is perfect for students who are interested in the teaching profession, yet may not live in La Grande.  You will be required to be on-campus during the summers for a few weeks, as well as three weeks in the Fall term and three weeks in the Winter term.
  • As an extended campus student, can I do all the coursework online? The extended campus program requires some on-campus attendance.  All students are required to be on-campus the first summer for three-four weeks of instruction. Students will also be required to attend three, five-day sessions of classes at the university during both the fall and winter terms, and will be required to be on-campus the following summer for three weeks.
  • In what areas can I get an endorsement if I want to teach middle/high school? EOU is able to recommend Middle/High School licensure with endorsements in the following areas: Agriculture, Art, Business, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Integrated Science, Foreign Languages, Language Arts, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education/Health, and Social Studies. Basic Mathematics is also an option but must be accompanied by one of the previous endorsements.   Click here for endorsement areas. Eligibility for an endorsement depends on content preparation and test passage.
  • Do I need to have a specific degree to qualify for the MAT Elementary program? No. You can major in any subject, but must have certain prerequisite courses to qualify. MAT Elementary Prep Guide Link
  • How do I know if I meet the eligibility requirements? To see if you meet the requirements necessary for admission into the program, visit our homepage and fill out the application form.  Send this in with a copy of your transcripts (official or unofficial) and we will review your information.  We will send a letter listing the requirements you might be missing.
  • When do I need to submit my application? All application materials need to be submitted by March 1 of the program year. Applications can be submitted for review before passing the required tests. It is recommended that you take the tests as soon as possible to allow re-takes, should you need them.  Passing test scores must be submitted by June 30th of the program year. Scores submitted after that date will not be considered for the upcoming MAT program.
  • After I apply to your program, what other requirements do I have to consider? You will still need to apply to the University for admission as a graduate student. You may access the application online.
  • What tests do I need to take? To be admitted to the MAT program you will need to pass a basic skills test (the EAS, CBEST, or Praxis I-PPST). Secondary candidates will also be required to pass the required subject-specific test(s), prior to entry into the program (NES-Pearson or Praxis II, depending upon which is required of your subject). Most tests are now administered on-demand, through approved computer testing centers and can be taken at various sites.
  • Can I choose my placements? You are able to list your preferences and we will try to match you with that placement. However, placement depends on district administrators and teachers who are willing to have an apprentice in their classroom.  There are times when a student’s content area does not match with available teachers so we try and place you as close to your requested site as possible.
  • Can I work while in the program? It is not recommended that you work while in the program, as it is quite rigorous.
  • How much does the program cost? Visit Student Accounts Tuition and Fees.
  • What kind of financial aid is available? For financial aid please contact the Financial Aid Department at (800) 452-8639 or (541) 962-3550. You can also view specific Education scholarship/grant opportunities.
  • What is the job market like for teachers? Visit the following link to learn more about teacher demand, based on field and region: The Job Market Today
  • How do I begin searching for a job? The College of Education offers career advising and hosts a spring Job Fair on campus for our Education students ONLY! Administrators from all over Oregon come to EOU to meet MAT students, talk with them about the hiring process, and facilitate both mock and real job interviews.
  • Please tell me everything about your program!  We would love to! Just contact our MAT Pre-Admissions Advisor, Kristin Johnson, at 541-962-3529 or kristin.johnson@eou.edu