Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What can I do with an MAT degree?

A: The MAT program prepares you to teach in the public or private school system, either at the Elementary or the Secondary grade levels.

Q: How long is the MAT program?

A: The program starts in late summer and continues through June of the following year.  The program extends over four terms, a total of 10 months.

Q: How many credits is the MAT Program?

A: The MAT program is approximately 45-56 graduate-level credits.

Q: Can I start the program in the middle of the year?

A: Our program is designed on the cohort model, which requires you to start in late summer and complete the program with your cohort.

Q: What is a cohort? 

A: Your cohort is the group of students with whom you enter the program.  This same group will attend all classes with you throughout the year.  There is an elementary and a secondary cohort each year.

Q: Can I get an MAT degree if I live outside of La Grande? 

A: Yes! Our hybrid program is perfect for students interested in the teaching profession yet may not live in La Grande.  You will be required to be on campus for one week during the first summer, and then the rest of the coursework will be completed in a hybrid format. Hybrid courses have required scheduled times for synchronous meetings using a remote platform.

Q: As a hybrid student, can I do all the coursework online?

A: The MAT program requires one week of on-campus attendance in the late summer.  The remaining coursework will be completed remotely. All students are required to be on campus for one week of instruction. The remaining coursework will be completed in a hybrid format. Hybrid courses have required scheduled times for synchronous meetings using a remote platform.  Meeting times are communicated to students in the course schedule.

Q: In what areas can I get an endorsement if I want to teach middle/high school?

A: EOU is able to recommend Preliminary licensure with endorsements in the following areas: Agriculture, Art, Business, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Integrated Science, Foreign Languages, Language Arts, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education/Health, and Social Studies. Basic Mathematics is also an option but must be accompanied by one of the previous endorsements.   Click here for endorsement areas. Eligibility for an endorsement depends on content preparation and test passage.

Q: Do I need to have a specific degree to qualify for the MAT Elementary-Multiple Subjects program?

A: No. You can major in any subject, but must have certain prerequisite courses to qualify. MAT Elementary Multiple Subjects Prep Guide

Q: How do I know if I meet the eligibility requirements?

A: To see if you meet the requirements necessary for admission into the program, visit our homepage and fill out the application form.  Send this in with a copy of your transcripts (official or unofficial) and we will review your information.  We will contact you, listing the requirements you might be missing.

Q: When do I need to submit my application?

A: The MAT application priority deadline is March 1 of the program year.

Q: Do I need to take a test for admission to the MAT program?

A: During the faculty review of your application, your transcript will be reviewed for Multiple Measures, which would replace the state-approved test if you qualify. If you do not qualify for Multiple Measures, you are required to take and pass the state-approved content exam for the endorsement/s that you are pursuing. Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive an admission decision, which will indicate if you have qualified for Multiple Measures or if you will need to take the state-approved content exam.

Q: Can I choose my placements?

A: You are able to list your preferences and we will try to match you with that placement. However, placement depends on district administrators and teachers who are willing to have an apprentice in their classroom.  There are times when a student’s content area does not match with available teachers so we try and place you as close to your requested site as possible.

Q: Can I work while in the program?

A: It is not recommended that you work while in the program, as it is quite rigorous.

Q: How much does the program cost?

A: Visit Student Financial Services Tuition and Fees for information about program cost.

Q: What kind of financial aid is available?

A: For financial aid please contact the Financial Aid Department at (800) 452-8639 or (541) 962-3550. You can also view specific Education scholarship/grant opportunities.

Q: How do I begin searching for a job?

A: The College of Education offers career advising and hosts a spring Job Fair on campus for our Education students ONLY! Administrators from all over Oregon come to EOU to meet MAT students, talk with them about the hiring process, and facilitate both mock and real job interviews.

Q: Please tell me everything about your program! 

A: We would love to! Just contact our MAT Pre-Admissions Advisor, Kristin Johnson, at 541-962-3529 or kristin.johnson@eou.edu