I chose SUNY Empire because of the ability to take courses online and have a flexible
schedule.
Master of Arts in Teaching
Adolescent and Middle Childhood Education, Special Education (All Grades K-12)
Ready to lead your own classroom? Our Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a flexible, fully accredited online program that prepares you to become a certified middle and high school teacher in New York state.
Whether you’re a recent college graduate or a career changer, you’ll gain real-world teaching experience and personalized support from experienced faculty. With multiple certification areas and clinical PATHWAYS, this program offers 100% on-line academics, paired with in-person field and clinical experiences in NYS schools, that will prepare you to make a lasting impact on students (and your future). The MAT offers certification in Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, Social Studies, English, and Spanish. The general science 5-9 certification extension is also available to science students meeting additional criteria.
All programs leading to NYS Certification are fully accredited by AAQEP.
Jump to
Our team can help you prepare for the next step in your career.
Adolescent and Middle Childhood Education, Special Education (All Grades K-12)
Next term starts
Fall 2026
Ready to Apply?
The deadline for the Fall 2026 term is August 7. How to Apply
Prepare to Teach and Thrive in Today’s Classrooms
- Build culturally responsive teaching skills
- Understand adolescent learning and development
- Design inclusive, standards-based lessons
- Apply real classroom experience and feedback
For comprehensive information about our courses, please visit our course catalog.
A Teaching Career That Makes a Difference
This program prepares you to teach in middle and high schools across New York state. Potential careers include:
- Middle school teacher
- High school teacher
- Teacher in high-needs subjects (e.g., science, math, special education)
- Career and technical education teacher
- Elementary School (Special Education Only)
Flexible Pathways into Teaching
Choose the pathway that fits your goals and start making an impact sooner
- Transitional B: Earn a salary as a teacher of record while completing your degree
- Residency: Gain immersive classroom experience with structured support and mentorship
Interested? Start Here
1
Become a Certified Teacher with Confidence
We’re here to help you every step of the way. From field experience to certification preparation,
our expert faculty and advisors will support your journey, help you stay on track,
and make sure you’re ready to succeed in your own classroom.
Request Info
2
Apply for the MAT Program
Make sure you have all the admissions requirements and complete your application to be ready for our next term!
Next start term
Fall 2026
Deadline to apply
August 7
Start Your Degree
as soon as September 8, 2026.
Interested in the MAT in Adolescent and Middle Childhood Education, Special Education (All Grades K-12)?