FAQs

Does my undergraduate degree have to be in a certain area in order to start the program?

The MAT-S and TMI programs are designed for individuals with undergraduate degrees in areas other than education.

How do I choose an area of concentration for the MAT-S program?

First, think about what subject you would be happy teaching. Second, think about the courses you took as part of your prior degree program(s). Admittance to the MAT-S program requires you to have 15 hours of content coursework in the area you declare to be your concentration area. Also, you will need a total of 21 hours of coursework in that content area in order to receive your license.

How long does the program take?

Students completing the MAT-S licensure-only option or TMI can complete program requirements in as little as 2 semesters. Students completing the MAT-S degree program can finish program requirements in as little as 14 months. .

Is financial aid available?

Financial assistance for qualified individuals is available through the LEAP Scholarship. For students in the MAT-S program, the scholarship provides eligible recipients up to $5000 and the use of a laptop computer while the student is enrolled in MAT-S courses. For students in TMI, the scholarship provides eligible recipients $2500 and the use of a laptop computer while the student is enrolled in the Dimensions of Learning I internship course. To determine financial aid eligibility, please visit the Student Financial Aid website or call 662-325-2450.

Where do I have to teach?

Students enrolled in the MAT-S and TMI programs must secure a teaching position in a public school in Mississippi in order to complete the internship portion of the program. Students who are LEAP Scholarship recipients must teach in a LEAP partner district.

How long do I have to stay there?

LEAP Scholarship recipients who complete the MAT-S licensure-only option or TMI program must teach in a LEAP partner district for 2 years. LEAP Scholarship recipients who complete the MAT-S degree must teach in a LEAP partner district for 3 years.

What if I want to be licensed in more than one subject area?

It is possible to add other subject areas (called endorsements) to 3 year nonrenewable and 5 year renewable licenses. Most endorsements may be added by either having 21 credit hours in the content area or by passing the Praxis II for that area. For more information on endorsements, visit the Office of Clinical/Field-based Instruction and Licensure website or contact Lina Trullinger, Licensure Specialist, at 662-325-2206.

Will I have reciprocal licensure should I move to a different state?

Alternate route licensure requirements vary from state to state, therefore we cannot guarantee that another state will accept your licensure.

How can I find a job as a teacher?

Most school districts have websites that keep updated lists of teaching vacancies. A listing of the school districts in Mississippi can be found on the Mississippi Department of Education website. You may also visit the MSU Career Center website. The Career Center offers several valuable services including resume writing guides, resume critiques, mock interviews, and job searches. Simply login to their Connections page with your NetID and password, post your resume, and look for jobs in your preferred districts.

Are the courses offered online?

Courses required for the MAT-S and TMI programs can be completed almost entirely online via distance learning from virtually anywhere in the state of Mississippi and beyond. Students can also complete some coursework via distance and some coursework face-to-face on the Starkville or Meridian campuses.

How much do the courses cost?

The cost of the courses is based on the MSU graduate tuition rates. Additional fees may apply.