The Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree in Special Education provides initial teacher preparation at the master's degree level for qualified candidates who hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
Most candidates do not currently hold clear, renewable certification; some candidates hold clear, renewable certificates in distantly related teaching fields (e.g., Physical Education, Business Education). Students are expected to begin and matriculate with their cohort for satisfactory completion of the degree program. Cohorts start each June and the program is 100% online.
Program Admissions Requirements
GCSU application for graduate admissions
Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Minimum GPA 2.75 or higher
Two professional recommendations (PDF) using College of Education format
Pass GACE 360 (Ethics) which will require you to open a PSC account (if you don’t already have one)
Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
Note: Candidates must hold an IN4T or Pre-Service certification in Special Education All candidates, including those who are teacher-of-record, must teach in an alternate grade band for a specified period of time.
Application decisions will be made between April 2nd and April 10th for all completed applications received on or before the priority deadline of April 1st. For completed applications received after April 1st, decisions will be made on the 30th of April.
