51�ԹϺ�����

Five of the seven courses are fully online. Two of the seven courses require students to complete field placement in a P-12 classroom aligned with their initial certification. You must be available during school hours (7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) to complete field requirements in your specified content/certification area.

You must attend placement in your certification area as follows – for EDUC 5005, a minimum of 24 30 hours, 3-3.75 days per week for the duration of the semester. For EDUC 5006, a minimum of 40 hour, 5 days per week for the duration of the semester. Each certification area requires fieldwork in specific grade bands. For example, P-12 certification (grades P-12) requires grade band experience as follows: P-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Middle grades certification (grades 4 - 8) requires grade band experience as follows: 4-5 and 6-8. Secondary certification (grades 6-12) requires grade band experience as follows: 6-8, and 9-12.

Specialization refers to the specific GACE content area for which you plan to pursue certification (i.e. math, history).

Pedagogy-only means you are only being trained how to teach. There are no content-specific courses being taught. Since this MAT program is pedagogy-only, applicants must pass the GACE content assessment with a score of 220 or above to show knowledge/expertise of the specified content area.

Does the program require any prerequisites?

No, the program requires an undergrad degree from an accredited institution approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). 

Can my undergraduate degree be different from my MAT certification area?

Yes, your undergrad degree can be different from your MAT. However, since this MAT program is pedagogy-only, applicants must pass the GACE content assessment with a score of 220 or above to show knowledge/expertise of the specified content area.

Where should I send my transcripts and other documents?

Transcripts and ALL documents (professional recommendations, CV/ resume, bio, GACE content scores) must be sent to the Office of Graduate Studies at graduateadmissions@mga.edu. 

Can my grad credits from a different MAT program transfer over?

No. Per accreditation requirements, since this is a pedagogy-only graduate program, we do not accept transfer credits.

Can I submit my application packet without my GACE scores?

Yes, however, your application will not be processed until your GACE Content Assessment scores and GA Ethics 360 Certificate of Achievement are received.

GACE Testing Requirements for Applicants

In order to gain eligibility for testing, you must create or update your MyPSC account at using your legal name as shown on your ID documents you will present on the day of testing.

• For the GACE Content Assessments select reason #3 “I am taking a content assessment to gain eligibility for employment and plan to complete a state-approved program such as GaTAPP, a certification-only program, or a Master's degree with a certification program embedded.”
• For the Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment (360) select reason #7 “I am taking the Program Exit level of the Georgia Educator Ethics or the Georgia Ethics for Educational Leadership assessment."
• You must add the program (51�ԹϺ�����) as a score recipient.
• ETS will send you an email with a link to the requested assessment.
• Access the assessment system, select Test Takers under Registration, create your account, and register and pay the fee online.

Visit the GACE ETS website for and score reporting windows.

What is a cohort model?

All coursework is prescribed per semester and has to be successfully completed in order to progress to subsequent semesters (see Program of Study PDF located in the Programs page).

You can begin the MAT program either in the spring cohort (begins in January) or summer cohort (begins in May).

Can I stay employed while in the program?

If you are teaching in a school setting, yes; however, if not, you will need to be available during school hours to complete your field placement.

Employed educators may continue teaching at their respective schools as long as the subject (s) and grade(s) they are teaching align with their certification area and in a general education classroom. In such cases, the majority of field requirements would be completed in their classroom.

Can I change my specialization area after being admitted into the MAT program?

No, per GaPSC requirements, your GACE content assessment must be aligned to your certification area. Note – Please ensure that any new teaching position you accept while in the program aligns with your specialization area.

Are classes synchronous or asynchronous?

Classes are usually asynchronous, but the online seminars for field courses are synchronous.

Will I get a class syllabus and a list of necessary books prior to the first day of classes?

Syllabi are provided in D2L on the first day of classes. Also, there is usually a mandatory online orientation before beginning the MAT program. To see the list of books needed, please visit the .

What is the cost of the program?

The cost of the program is approximately $10,000. Please check the Bursar’s Office graduate tuition page for the up-to-date cost.

How do I apply for financial aid?

Visit the Office of Financial Aid page and connect with a financial aid advisor. If you are a veteran, contact the Veteran Services for assistance.

Is there any graduate financial assistance?

Please refer to MGA's Office of Financial Aid for any available grants.