K12 classroom

Master of Arts in Teaching

Through the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Program at Lake Forest College, students can obtain both a master’s degree and Illinois teacher licensure simultaneously. The MAT entitles graduates for state-accredited initial teaching licensure focused on one of the following areas:

  • Elementary grades 1-5
  • Secondary grades 9-12: mathematics, English, history, chemistry, biology, physics
  • K-12: visual arts, music, Spanish, French 

The MAT Program includes two options:  

  • Combined BA/MAT, for individuals who seek to earn their BA in relevant content area for teaching (any content area for Elementary) and their subsequent MAT/teaching licensure at Lake Forest College
  • Post BA MAT, for individuals seeking licensure who have completed a minimum of a bachelor’s degree at another institution (with a major in an area of study offered by Lake Forest College) or at Lake Forest College

The MAT program is not appropriate for teachers who are already licensed to teach in K-12 schools.

Additional Endorsements

In addition to earning your main license in elementary, secondary, or K-12, candidates can add the following additional endorsements. 

Katherine Rogers
I chose Lake Forest College because of the strong education program that allowed me to get both my bachelor's and my master's degrees. Lake Forest is also unique because you complete fieldwork in Waukegan and other neighboring suburbs. You receive constructive feedback on your teaching skills from experienced teachers, professors, and principals in the area, which gave me an advantage when applying to jobs here in Illinois.
Katherine Rogers '20, MAT graduate '21

CONTACT US

Dr. Desmond Odugu
Professor of Education
MAT Coordinator
Buchanan Hall 233
847-735-5177
odugu@lakeforest.edu

Adrienne Thoms
Educator Preparation Program Coordinator
Department Assistant
847-735-5169
thoms@lakeforest.edu