About the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood educators have the opportunity shape the future. Are you ready to provide young learners with a foundation for lifelong success?
The Early Childhood Education M.A.T. is for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in any area and seek initial licensure to teach young children (birth – grade 2) in the state of Illinois.
Our program will prepare you to optimize student learning in early childhood settings. As a graduate student, you will learn how to create engaging and effective classroom environments that nurture and guide young children during a critical period when 90% of brain development occurs.
Typically completed in two years, the program’s coursework and state exams leads to eligibility for Illinois Professional Educator License endorsed for early childhood and self-contained general education (birth to grade 2).
For more information on state licensure and certification information please visit NLU’s Public Disclosures page.
Learn more about how NCE prepares teachers to make a difference in the lives of the students they serve.
Questions?
Contact Marci Mazza, Director of Enrollment: MMazza@nl.edu
National College of Education offers four different ways to earn the Early Childhood Education, M.A.T.
Requires 45 SH for completion (43 SH for licensure).
Early Childhood Education, M.A.T. (Traditional) is a two year blended program (with the option to take all courses online). The candidate may earn licensure prior to completing the M.A.T.
Early Childhood Education, M.A.T. (Teacher Resident) is for candidates accepted into NLU’s teacher residency licensure partner program. Year One, residents are paired with a mentor teacher and earn their PEL. In Year Two, residents earn an additional endorsement in ESL/bilingual or special education.
Early Childhood Education, M.A.T. (Alternative Teacher Licensure) is a two-year immersion program that places teacher candidates in high-needs schools as teacher of record.
Early Childhood Education, M.A.T. (Accelerated Track) is for experienced Early Childhood Education teachers with three years or more of full-time teaching experience. Accepted candidates will continue teaching full-time while they complete the program. The Accelerated program can be completed within one academic year.
View all graduate professional educator licensure programs criteria here.
Meet Your Faculty
Two of our faculty from the Early Childhood Education M.A.T program share their tips for effective remote teaching and promoting learning at home during COVID.
Professor Ayn Keneman
Dr. Ayn Keneman, Professor of Early Childhood Education, reminds us that this will be a memorable time for our children and reassures parents that all experiences can be educational, such as reading aloud, cooking and family storytelling.
Assistant Professor Lee Tate
Dr. Lee Tate, Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Education, shares ideas to support children at home, such as keeping in regular communication with teachers and peers via video conferencing, using household activities as learning methods, and making time for reading each day.
