Inspire learning with an M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education Degree
The pre-adolescent and early adolescent years of learning are a significant period for student growth and success. Mercer University’s Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Middle Grades Education degree prepares individuals for initial teacher certification to support students in grades 4–8.
Mercer’s graduate middle grades teaching degree is pedagogy-only, meaning that content concentration courses are no longer required. Students seeking jobs teaching middle grades in Georgia must complete and pass the appropriate Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC)-approved Content Pedagogy Assessment and Georgia Assessment for the Certification of Educators (GACE) Content Assessments to be eligible for Level 5 certification.
Mercer University is dedicated to ensuring the flexibility and accessibility of courses and programs for busy and working adults. Whether you are already in the classroom and seeking certification, or you are just starting out in education and preparing for jobs in teaching, Mercer’s graduate middle grades education degree is designed for you.
Format: Blended (combination of online and on-campus instruction) • Start Terms: Atlanta | January, March, May, August, and October; Macon | January, May, and August • Application Deadlines: Atlanta | December 1, March 1, May 1, August 1, and October 1; Macon | January 1, May 1, and August 1 • Course Length: 8 and 16 weeks • Field Experience: 13 hours • Completion Time: 18-24 months |
Your Mercer M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree experience
Mercer’s graduate middle grades teaching degree program fosters a community of faculty, staff, and peers who are committed to teaching and encouraging learning both inside and outside the classroom. Not only will you take engaging education degree courses, but you will also gain valuable experience in the classroom to prepare you for impactful jobs in teaching throughout Georgia’s diverse schools.
Learn through day field experience with our graduate education degree
If you are wondering how to become a teacher, Mercer’s M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree is the ideal program to prepare you to excel in the middle grades classroom. When you earn your graduate teaching degree, you will have experience in the field—observing current teachers, participating in classroom activities, and teaching students in middle grades. Students who are currently on a provisional license can complete field experiences in their own classroom. View program requirements to learn more about our graduate middle grades teaching degree field placement. Field experiences are coordinated through the Office of Field Placement.
Explore M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree courses
The first step to learning how to become a teacher is building a solid foundation in pedagogical techniques and theories. Mercer’s M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree program develops aspiring teachers with the skills to understand the needs of middle grade learners. You will also gain knowledge in a content concentration area that interests middle grade students—including language arts, mathematics, science, social science, and reading.
Successful completion of the program and passing scores on the appropriate Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC)-approved Content Pedagogy Assessment and GACE Content Assessments lead to eligibility for Level 5 certification.
Courses in the graduate middle grades education degree include:
- Planning and Organizing Instruction in Middle Grades Education
- Literacy in the Disciplines
- Culturally and Educationally Responsive Pedagogy
View the M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree course descriptions and program requirements.
Enhance your skills and career opportunities with a graduate middle grades education degree from Mercer
Mercer’s M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree program is ideal for: new teachers, paraprofessionals with a bachelor’s degree, teachers seeking a Clear Renewable master’s level certificate, and teachers who want to earn both initial certification and a master’s level teaching certificate.
Students who are new to teaching will take foundational courses that will introduce them to major concepts and techniques in child development and education. Each class—from introductory lessons to advanced research methods—will help middle grades education degree students strengthen their current skill set and develop new skills.
Whether you are seeking initial certification or seeking jobs in teaching, earning an M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree from Mercer will help you launch your career as an educator in one of the most impactful professions.
Learn more about our M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule your personalized admissions appointment or contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 678.547.6062 or MercerEducation@mercer.edu for more information.
Meet Our Faculty
Mercer’s Tift College of Education is supported by faculty and staff who devote themselves to preparing students to become transforming educators within their communities and throughout the world.
Find your purpose with Mercer
If you’re ready to earn your M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education degree and start impacting the lives of students and families, schedule your personalized admissions appointment, or contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 678.547.6084 or MercerEducation@mercer.edu for more information.
Professional licensure
All of Mercer’s programs that lead to licensure are designed to meet the educational requirements of regulatory authorities in the State of Georgia. If you intend to seek licensure or certification outside of Georgia, please review Mercer’s professional licensure disclosure for more information.