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1. What is the difference between the MAT and M.Ed. programs at Converse?
The M.Ed. is designed for already certified teachers while the MAT is designed for those seeking initial certification within a master’s degree program. The MAT is offered in a variety of areas including early childhood, elementary, learning disabilities, educable mentally disabled, and selected secondary fields (English, social studies, mathematics, biology, and chemistry).
2. What if I have had some of the required courses in my undergraduate program?
If the adviser confirms that the course is indeed “equivalent,” you may be able to waive this particular course requirement—or substitute a graduate elective course if you need the graduate credit hours in a given category for the MAT degree.
3. What is the story on transfer courses?
If you have had previous graduate courses (up to nine semester hours) within five years of beginning your MAT degree, and the adviser determines that these are appropriate courses for your particular MAT degree curriculum, such courses may be transferred into your Converse graduate degree program. The courses must be from an accredited institution with grades of “A” or “B.”
4. Am I eligible for scholarships or loans?
There are various loan programs for teachers who are a) accepted into a degree program and b) are enrolled half time or more. Half time is defined as two courses in the fall, one course in the Winter Term, and two courses in the spring. To be eligible in the summer, graduate students must take one 3-hour course in both the first and second summer sessions to meet the half-time minimum requirement for loan eligibility . Check with
the Financial Assistance Office in Carnegie Hall for further details (phone 596-9019).
5. What steps do I need to take after beginning the MAT Program?
Because this program includes initial certification to teach in South Carolina, you will need to be admitted to teacher education and, ultimately, student teaching. Both of these are application processes that require completion of a number of specific requirements outlined on the enclosed information sheet. It is particularly important that MAT students successfully complete both Praxis I and Praxis II in a timely fashion. Students must report to us a passing score on Praxis I at least one full semester before enrolling in student teaching. We also recommend taking Praxis II before enrolling in student teaching. Praxis II is required for graduation and passing it is required for certification. For further information check with Ed Gosnell, Coordinator of Clinical Experiences, on the ground floor of Carmichael Hall (phone
596-9079, email ed.gosnell@converse.edu).
6. Is there a set sequence for the curriculum?
There is some flexibility, but we require getting the Education 560: Introduction to Education course first since this serves as an introductory course and also provides much information about the certification process. Directed student teaching is generally the final course in the sequence leading to the MAT degree. You will note that some courses have prerequisites, and you should examine the Graduate Catalog to make sure you know which courses have such requirements.
7. How long will the M.A.T. program take to complete?
That depends. Most people complete the program easily within a two-year time period. Of course, that depends on how many classes you take per term and when needed classes are available. We require you to complete all of your requirements within a five-year time span, starting with the first Converse course that is a part of your M.A.T. curriculum. Students may begin their coursework in any semester or summer term.
8. How many terms are there and what are the limits on how many courses I can take in each term?
We have a 14-week Fall Term, a January Term, and a 14-week Spring Term. This academic year calendar is followed by a 5-week Summer I term and a 3-week Summer II term. If you are full time and trying to complete the program as quickly as possible, you may take up to 4 courses in the fall and spring terms, 1 in the winter term, 3 in summer I, and 2 in summer II. Student teaching is considered a full-time experience and may be taken either fall or spring term at the culmination of your program. Occasionally, a student may also take one late afternoon or evening course while also student teaching, although it is better to devote all of your time to this clinical experience.
9. I am pursing the M.A.T. in elementary education and see that I have to take two courses in Area IV-liberal arts. What courses count in this area of the M.A.T. program?
Generally speaking, courses in academic disciplines outside of Education and Special Education. For example, students may take graduate courses (500 level and above) in psychology, sociology, English, history and politics, art, mathematics, or the sciences.
10. Are course schedules and registration procedures available on line?
Yes. Visit the online Registrar at http://www.converse.edu/Academics/Registrar/registrarOffice.html
for a listing of courses. Students may register by mail by sending in a registration form available from the Graduate Studies Office. Call 864-596-9220 or e-mail jill.feist@Converse.edu for a registration form.
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