In addition to standardized tests, prospective teachers in Illinois must complete an accredited teacher certification program, such as the one offered by National Louis University. These programs focus on educational theory, classroom skills and student teaching.
While Illinois does not require a master's degree in education, many prospective teachers pursue an advanced degree, such as a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) to advance their career. Earning an advanced teaching degree can help aspiring teachers to command a higher salary and establish themselves as highly-qualified professionals.3
Pursuing a master's degree in education is also a great way to gain deeper insight into the field of teaching itself. An M.A.T. program, such as National Louis University's new Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Middle Grades Education degree, focuses on advanced coursework in a specific subject area, giving motivated teachers the opportunity to hone their expertise and create engaging learning experiences for middle school students.
Designed for those who plan to teach at the middle grades level (grades 5–8) and who want to study at a leading teacher preparation institution, NLU's M.A.T. program prepares teachers to:
- Build effective learning communities in middle grades
- Tailor teaching strategies to adolescents' unique developmental needs
- Integrate critical and creative thinking into middle grades education
- Develop responsive strategies for a diverse range of adolescent learners