- Willamette
- Graduate School of Education
- Academic Programs
- Master of Arts in Teaching
- Extended (18-Month) Program
MAT Extended Program
Overview
The mission for extended programs 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 Extended Program
The 18-month extended 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, which begins each January, is spread over 18 months as opposed to the intensive 10 months of the full-time program. In the first and second semesters (Spring Year 1 and Fall Year 2, classes are generally held on Monday evenings as well as one or more Saturdays a month. Beginning Fall Year 2, 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 extended program candidates must pass a basic skills test (CBEST or Praxis I/PPST) prior to official acceptance in the program. However, candidates will have until August of Year 1 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 and Pre-Student Teaching observations.
- Specialty Endorsements - Candidates in the part-time program may add one of the specialty endorsements of ESOL or Special Education to their teaching license. Candidates also have the option to take two introductory courses toward the Reading Endorsement, which is eligible to teachers with at least 3 years of licensed teaching experience.