Master of Arts in Teaching with a Concentration in Special Education

University of West Georgia
Decorative stack of books with grad cap on top Degree Level Masters
Decorative graph Total Credit Hours 30
Decorative piggy bank Per Credit Hour Cost See Website

Program Description

The Special Education MAT program is a 30-credit hour program available for individuals who hold an existing, approved degree in any field.  This program leads to certification in Georgia in grades p-12 and gives the student a Masters degree at the same time. Students must be able to complete the year-long internship required for program completion within the state of Georgia. 

The General Curriculum track prepares M.A.T. teacher candidates to teach students with mild disabilities who receive instruction using the general education curriculum and who participate in general statewide assessments. Specific categories of mild disabilities include learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, other health impairments, and mild intellectual disability. Teacher candidates are also prepared to teach students in special education preschool settings (ages 3-5 years).

The Adapted Curriculum track prepares M.A.T. teacher candidates to teach students who have moderate or severe disabilities who may participate in an alternative assessment. Specific categories of moderate to severe disabilities may include autism, moderate or severe intellectual disabilities, or multiple disabilities. Teacher candidates are also prepared to teach students in special education preschool settings (ages 3-5 years).

Admissions Information

  • A 3.0 undergraduate GPA is required for admission. 

  • *Applicants with a 2.7 or higher undergraduate GPA may be considered with additional supporting documentation.

  • Submit proof of GACE Ethics for Teachers-Test 351

  • Students must be able to complete the year-long internship within the state of Georgia. 

State Authorization and Professional Licensure Disclaimer

The Master of Arts in Teaching with a Concentration in Special Education program leads to Professional Licensure.

Not all programs are available to residents in all states. Please check the institution's State Authorization and Professional Licensure website(s) to ensure you reside in an authorized state. 's Professional License Disclosure

Program Accreditation

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges