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Teaching Special Education PK-12 (MAT)

From Classroom to Certification: M.A.T. in Special Education (PK-12)

Make a lasting impact in the lives of diverse learners with Â黨ÌìÃÀÐÇ¿Õ's Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) with certification in Special Education (PK-12). This program is perfect for aspiring educators who want to earn their M.A.T. degree while gaining the specialized knowledge and skills needed to teach students with special needs across all grade levels. The M.A.T. program offers a thorough introduction to education, beginning with nine credit hours that cover human development and the psychology of teaching, providing a solid foundation for your career. You will also engage in seven credit hours that emphasize classroom methods, practical experience through a hands-on practicum, and literacy instruction strategies.

As part of the program, you will complete 18 credit hours focused on developing the expertise needed to work with students with special needs, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges you’ll encounter in the classroom. Additionally, 12 credit hours are dedicated to strengthening your understanding of literacy development and mathematical reasoning, helping you refine your skills as an educator.

Program Highlights

Make A Difference

Ready to make a difference? Having a M.A.T. with certification in Special Education in grades PK-12 will give you the tools, experience, and confidence to succeed. Apply now to start your journey in shaping the future of education.

Hands-On Experience

You'll complete field experiences and student teaching placements arranged within a radius from the University, giving you the chance to put your skills into practice before graduation. Upon completion, you'll be prepared to take the Pennsylvania PRAXIS exams, leading to your Instructional I certification in Special Education (PK-12).

Ranked Among the Best

Marywood is ranked #14 Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings for 2026, making Marywood a great, centrally located option for students in Northeastern Pennsylvania who want to stay closer to home.

A closeup portrait of a young woman wearing glasses.

My favorite thing about Marywood is how welcoming of an environment it is. I remember my freshman year going through a period of shock at how kind and friendly everyone rea...

Aubrey Haskell '21

Top Career Paths

  • Special Education Supervisor

  • Special Education Teacher

  • Learning/Development Coordinator

  • Elementary School Teacher

Top Employers

  • School Districts

  • Universities

  • Education App/ Tutoring Companies

  • Public Libraries

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Take Your Next Steps

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Graduate Admissions Featured Events

Visit campus during one of our admissions events specially designed for you to learn more about your degree program, or schedule an individual appointment with a graduate admissions counselor by clicking on the Weekday Visits link.

Centers of Excellence

Â黨ÌìÃÀÐÇ¿Õ hosts three academic Centers of Excellence on campus; The Center for Law, Justice and Policy, The Center for Urban Studies, and The Mother Theresa Maxis, IHM Center. Each center provides students with the tools and resources to excel in their academic endeavors, fostering a dynamic environment where they can engage deeply with their respective fields of study and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

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Accreditation

Â黨ÌìÃÀÐÇ¿Õ is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSHE). / ADDRESS / 3624 Market Street, 2nd Floor West, Philadelphia, PA 19104. | Phone: (267) 284-5000 /