MAT in Childhood and Early Childhood Education, Manhattanville College

New York City, New York

24 Months

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About this course

This program offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Early Childhood (Birth-Grade 2) and Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) at Manhattanville University. The curriculum is comprehensive and rigorous, designed to prepare students for dual teaching certification in both early childhood and childhood education. Taught in a hybrid format that meets New York State Education Department standards, the program includes coursework in educational foundations, curriculum design, pedagogy, and strategies for working with children from birth to grade 6. It combines classroom learning with rich field experiences and culminates in a semester-long student teaching placement. Students can also choose to pursue a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) for additional certification in special education, broadening their career opportunities.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for individuals seeking a rewarding career in teaching or looking to expand their professional possibilities. It meets all state certification requirements, including rich fieldwork and student teaching experiences, and offers dual certification, significantly enhancing employment prospects across early childhood and elementary education settings. The focus on research, fieldwork, and specialization makes it suitable for those aspiring to work in diverse educational environments or pursue further academic qualifications like a PhD.

Specialisation

The program allows students to focus on areas like literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, or the arts through electives and specialization options such as Literacy Education, Physical Education, and Diversity and Inclusion. For those interested in additional expertise, Manhattanville offers dual certification in special education and early childhood/childhood education via the MPS program or a certificate in special education.

Course fees

Application fees

22.27L

1st year tuition fees

22.27L

Living cost

Degree requirements

The program requires completing 49 credits over two to three years, including coursework in foundational education topics, certification courses in literacy, math, science, social studies, and special education, along with a comprehensive exam and supervised student teaching. Participants must also attend mandatory state workshops and complete research projects to meet certification standards for New York State.

English language test

PTE

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

105

Career prospects

Graduates with NYS teaching certification in early childhood and childhood education can pursue roles in public schools across New York and other states. The demand for teachers remains steady, and preschool roles are expected to grow by 3% through 2032. Beyond classroom teaching, opportunities include positions as school directors, social workers, tutors, curriculum consultants, and roles in government agencies, non-profits, and childhood centers. The program’s emphasis on research and fieldwork also prepares students for doctoral studies and senior roles in education.

FAQs

How can I become a dual-certified teacher in New York?

You can meet the requirements for dual certification in early childhood and childhood by completing the graduate program’s coursework, workshops, student teaching, and passing the necessary state certification exams. Manhattanville offers tailored pathways through its MAT and MPS degrees for this purpose.

What is the difference between early childhood education and childhood education?

Early childhood education focuses on nurturing skills in children from birth to grade 2, while childhood education centers on building literacy and math abilities in grades 1 to 6. Both involve child development concepts but require different certifications.

Does the program include field experience or student teaching?

Yes, the program integrates rich field experiences and culminates in a full-time, supervised student teaching placement in the final semester, providing practical hands-on experience.