MA in Teaching

Early Childhood & Elementary Education

Take Your Career to the Next Level — Earn Your Master of Arts in Teaching in 18 Months!

Are you an aspiring Christian educator? Columbia International University’s Master of Arts in Teaching is designed to provide you with a comprehensive and supportive learning environment, so you can excel! The program is tailored to those seeking to teach in early childhood and elementary school settings, and it includes training for both areas. Graduates of the program are eligible for initial state licensure recommendation for elementary education (second to sixth grade) with an add-on in early childhood (PreK–third grade) in South Carolina, as well as with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

One of the key benefits of CIU’s Master of Arts in Teaching is its flexibility. You can begin your course of study at the beginning of the fall or spring semesters and complete the program in four terms of full-time study or extend the time to complete the program. This flexibility makes it easier for working professionals or those with other obligations to earn their degree and advance their career. Throughout the program, you will be trained to become an effective and authentic Christian educator, involved learner and practitioner who creates effective learning communities. You will have access to models, growth experiences and communities of practice that will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the field. The program emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, helping you to develop a strong Christian worldview that you can apply to your work in the classroom.

The Master of Arts in Teaching at Columbia International University is an excellent choice for those seeking to become Christian educators in early childhood or elementary school settings. With its comprehensive training, flexible scheduling options and emphasis on faith integration, this program provides a solid foundation for a successful career in education.

Location

Campus

Next Start

Campus – January 13, 2025

Credit Hours

44

College

College of Education

Accreditation

SC Department of Education, ASCI, SACSCOC

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Career Opportunities

  • Teaching in public and charter schools in grades PK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
  • Teaching in Christian schools in grades PK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
  • Teaching in international schools in grades PK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
  • Teaching in public or private child development centers
  • Directing afterschool and daycare programs
  • Working with tutoring companies to service students
  • Teaching with home school cohorts
  • Working in church ministry positions such as childcare director
  • Serving as academic interventionists
  • Ministering to children through mercy organizations worldwide
  • Serving as a Christian education consultant
  • Moving to further training as curriculum and instructional specialists, guidance counselor, school administrator and doctoral work

Teach Near & Far

Our MA in Teaching — Early Childhood & Elementary Education is approved by the state of South Carolina for teacher education. South Carolina has reciprocal agreements with most states, meaning that certification obtained in South Carolina can be transferred to another state.

Lead in Different Communities

This program is designed to prepare students to teach in a variety of contexts, including public schools, Christian schools, private and charter schools, and international schools.

Enhance Your Experience

Graduates of the program meet the qualifications for certification through the Association of Christian Schools International. This means that graduates are prepared to teach in Christian schools both in the United States and abroad.

Meet the Faculty

Course Preview

In addition to the undergraduate core and other related courses, here is a glimpse at a few of the courses you will be taking in this program.

For a full list of courses related to this program, visit the Academic Catalog at one of the options below:

EDU 5603 Instructional Practices for Literacy and Technology

Emphasizes instructional strategies, technology, and curricular support for literacy development in reading and writing. A focus is placed on emergent literacy and addressing the diverse needs of learners. This course is integrated with a practicum as part of a 12-credit hour South Carolina Read to Succeed requirement.

EDU 5604 Methods of Teaching Math and STEM

Surveys STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) principles with a focus on math instruction. Emphasis is placed on designing developmentally appropriate, inquiry-based instruction for early childhood and elementary learners. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.A.T. program or program director approval.

EDU 5810 Students with Diverse Needs

This course will expose students to various areas of exceptionality including definitions, incidence, and educational needs. Regulations governing the education of the disabled, options of serving special needs, and the modification of regular classrooms to accommodate exceptional children will be studied. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.A.T. program or Program Director approval.

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