- Willamette
- Graduate School of Education
- Academic Programs
- Master of Arts in Teaching
- Aspire Part-time Program
MAT Aspire Part-time Program
Overview
The mission for MAT Aspire at Willamette University is the same as the MAT full-time program: to prepare teachers as educational leaders, with an emphasis on reflection, student-centered instruction, collaboration and sensitivity to diversity and culture. We also emphasize the application of theory in sound educational practices with considerable field experiences that result in the development of strong relationships with supervising teachers.
Unique Aspects of the MAT Aspire Program
The part-time, two-year Aspire program is designed to allow aspiring teachers to balance an MAT and licensure program with their already busy lives.
- Program Length and Schedule - The curriculum is spread over two years as opposed to the intensive 10 months of the full-time program. In the first year, classes are generally held on Monday evenings as well as one-two Saturdays a month. In the second year, candidates will attend additional courses during other evenings that support particular endorsements in addition to the required field experiences (practicum and student-teaching).
- Subject Area Exams - To enter the part-time program candidates must pass a basic skills test (CBEST or Praxis I/PPST). However, candidates will have most of the first year of the program to pass the subject area exam (NES or Praxis II) needed for the teaching license.
- Integration of Technology - Each course embeds technology within course content and applications, including web-based research and projects using a variety of applications.
- Previous Experience - Many students bring extensive school experience to the program. In some cases, these experiences make candidates eligible to apply for course waivers. These waivers usually are used toward the Practicum (Observation, EDUC 592) and Pre-Student Teaching (EDUC 591) courses.
- Specialty Endorsements - Candidates in the part-time program may add one of the specialty endorsements of ESOL, Reading or Special Education to their teaching license.