Early Childhood/Special Education, M.A.T.

The M.A.T. in Early Childhood/Special Education is a cohort-based program that leads to a recommendation for grades preschool-grade 3 (PK-3) teacher licensure and grades PK-K Special Education teacher licensure in the State of Connecticut (CT Certification #113).

The program is grounded in rigorous academic preparation in methods of curriculum and instruction and the preparation of teachers who support the learning of all students. We are guided by the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion, and seek to prepare the next generation of teachers to enact these values in their classrooms, schools, and communities.

Program outcomes

Students will:

• Be critical thinkers and effective problem solvers who are concerned with the social, emotional and intellectual issues of young children in the contemporary educational setting
• Apply advanced pedagogy in child development, curriculum, instruction and assessment to engage young students in reaching their potential as individuals and as learners
• Develop the capacity to influence and advance positive change for young children and the profession of early childhood education in a complex global society
• Encourage development of collaborative relationships among all adults and agencies responsible for the appropriate emotional, social and cognitive development of young children

Acceptance requirements

1. Graduate admission application and nonrefundable admission fee
2. A conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
3. A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.67 
4. Two sealed official transcripts of all undergraduate work and any prior graduate work
5. Two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the candidate’s suitability as a prospective teacher or to work with children and families. Note: Recommendations must be obtained from individuals who are not family members, personal friends or members of the Department of Education at USJ.
6. Letter of intent
7. Immunization record using the USJ Health Service form available on the University website
8. A successful interview with Department of Education faculty

Continuation requirements

Students must earn a grade of C or better in all courses for continuous progression throughout the program. After 12 credits, candidates must maintain a G.P.A of 2.67 or higher throughout the program.

Exit requirements

Candidates for the master of arts in teaching must complete a course embedded capstone experience in the final semester.