Middle Education (MAT)
Guide growing minds. Shape the future.
Mary Baldwin University’s Master of Arts in Teaching: Middle Education (6–8) prepares future educators to teach and inspire students in the critical middle grades. Designed for those who hold a bachelor’s degree and seek initial licensure, the program combines subject-area expertise with developmentally responsive teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of young adolescents. With a blend of coursework, field experiences, and student teaching, graduates are equipped to lead classrooms in English, math, history/social sciences, or science.
- Time to Completion2 years
- Degree(s)Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Next steps
Why pursue your MAT in Middle Education at Mary Baldwin University?
Middle school is a time of rapid growth, curiosity, and challenge—and it takes a special kind of teacher to meet students where they are. At MBU, our MAT in Middle Education focuses on preparing educators who understand both the academic and emotional development of middle school learners. You’ll build deep content knowledge alongside strategies for engagement, classroom management, and inclusive instruction.
Here’s what you’ll gain:
- Flexible scheduling with online and hybrid course options
- A focus on student-centered, developmentally appropriate teaching
- Faculty support from experienced educators and mentors
- Coursework aligned with Virginia licensure requirements for grades 6–8
Whether you want to teach math, science, English, or social studies, this program gives you the foundation to thrive as a middle school educator who makes a lasting difference.
View our Teacher Education accreditation report.
Endorsements
At Mary Baldwin, we offer the a number of endorsements with the MAT degree. See the course requirements below:
- Elementary Education (PK-6)
- Special Education, General Curriculum (K-12)
- English as a Second Language (K-12)
- Middle Education (6-8): Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, History & Social Science
- Secondary Education (6–12): History & Social Science, English, Mathematics
Flexibility & Convenience
With all courses available online, you can complete coursework on your schedule. Some of our students power through the entire program in just two years, while for others, the MAT program is a part-time pursuit along with their career and home life. We’re here to make a career in teaching work for you.
Note: You must have a bachelor’s degree to apply to the MAT program.
Next steps
“Although you can never be 100% prepared for your first day of teaching, I felt as though MBU gave me the experience I needed to feel confident and ready.”
Janell Chavis BA ’19, MAT ’20, kindergarten teacher in Richmond
Practical Preparation with Experienced Educators
The master of arts in teaching offers lessons for enriched classroom teaching by combining liberal arts and professional studies. Graduate faculty teach alongside classroom teachers who serve as teaching partners, providing MAT students with hands-on experience in the classroom. Students actively assist in classrooms with 140 hours of practicum experience before their final student teaching assignments, to learn the culture and workings of schools and classrooms firsthand.
Outstanding Outcomes and Opportunities
MBU’s reputation for producing exceptionally qualified teachers means that an MAT from MBU translates into a career.
MBU is committed to training teachers for every student, no matter their financial or geographic situation. That’s why an average of 92% of Teacher Program graduates are in one of Virginia’s Top Ten Critical Shortage Areas.
Next steps
Our Faculty
Our program’s faculty is made up of passionate educators eager to share their insights and expertise. With their one-on-one support, you’ll graduate ready to tackle any challenges you face with confidence and competence.
Cost & Financial Aid
A great education is worth it. Our mission is to help you level up and bring your aspirations to life.
Some applicants to the MAT program are eligible for the Kitty Green and Hobart Jones Scholarship for Inquiry Teaching and Cooperative Learning, a scholarship for MAT students who are looking to change careers after five years outside the field of education, display a passion for inquiry-based and cooperative learning in public schools, intend to teach in PK-8 grades, and demonstrate financial need.