Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) English Language Learners

Graduate & Professional

The MAT-English language learners program is a 42-credit program of study leading to Massachusetts teacher licensure in English Language Learners (PreK-6 or 5-12). There is also a non-licensure option.

Program Overview

online | 42 credits | 1-2 years

This program equips you to work effectively with culturally and linguistically diverse students - including emergent bilinguals (English language learners) both within the US and abroad.

What we offer

The English language learners programs include courses on second language acquisition theory, English language teaching methods and how to apply this knowledge to content learning. Students will learn about the structure, meaning and context of language, and how to develop effective instructional plans and assessment. We also examine relevant social and cultural factors that impact culturally and linguistically diverse teaching and learning.

At the end of the program, students will be able to apply knowledge, analyze and evaluate:

  • linguistic and sociolinguistic concepts, processes and stages of language acquisition
  • theory, research, and best practices for language instruction and development
  • assessing reading, writing, aural and oral language skills
  • socio-emotional and sociocultural factors that influence the teaching and learning of English language learners
  • learners' social and academic language proficiency, as well as content-area learning

Masters degree with initial licensure

Our Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) English Language Learners program with initial licensure (42 credits) can be completed online or on campus. The program features a year-long student teaching practicum.

The teaching licenses obtained through this program are recognized in a number of other states, U.S. territories and Canadian provinces through the .

To become eligible for licensure in the state of Massachusetts while at Mount Holyoke, students must successfully complete the requirements of a teacher licensure program, pass the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) [fees apply], and submit licensure application materials and fees to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Masters degree without licensure

The non-licensure ELL program can be completed entirely online. The program culminates in students working with a mentor on a capstone project, paper, or internship. Please contact graduateadmissions@mtholyoke.edu for more information.

Additional licensure

This English Language Learners coursework provides students with the core competencies they need to be able to apply independently to Massachusetts for a license in English Language Learners (PreK-6 or 5-12).

含羞草研究所 advisors will guide you through the process of applying for your additional license in English Language Learners.

含羞草研究所 has consistently prepared outstanding educators who have transformed communities around the world. 含羞草研究所 is a member of the (CETE).

Thought leaders shaping the future

Stephani Lopez Rodriguez, MAT鈥19, from a video of her talking about the influence of Mount Holyoke on her students.

Watch the video to hear MAT Teacher Candidate, Stephani Lopez Rodriguez and her Supervising Practitioner, Alicia Lopez talk about the impact they make as ELL teachers.

Alicia Lopez

Alicia Lopez, MAT faculty was a finalist for the Massachusetts State Teacher of the Year award. Congratulations, Alicia!

Two Professional and Graduate students working together with a computer.

Funding your education

Funding your education is a concern for many students, and yet there are a range of resources available to help make it affordable. In addition to our scholarships and fellowships, Mount Holyoke's Office of Student Financial Services works closely with students to talk about what can meet your needs.

Funding resources for graduate students

Happening at Mount Holyoke

News from English Language Learner's Program

Mount Holyoke鈥檚 graduate programs in education have ranked in the top half of 2022鈥檚 鈥淏est Online Programs鈥 according to U.S. News & World Report.

In its first collaboration, the Urban Teacher Pathways program equips Holyoke teachers with the skills to build and sustain a successful classroom.

Mount Holyoke Experiences

What our students say

Professional and Graduate students in a classroom with a large screen for online students, showing an example of hybrid learning environment.

鈥淚n a globalized world, it is vitally important that we, as educators, are equipped with the necessary skill set to support one of our most vulnerable student populations. By combining knowledge, collaboration and expertise, our nation鈥檚 English language learners can excel not only in the classroom but also in life. The 含羞草研究所 Masters program is the first step towards understanding the impact a multifaceted education can have on non-English speakers and native speakers alike. With the guidance and mentoring of extremely skilled and highly educated faculty, your journey towards deepening your knowledge surrounding working with culturally and linguistically diverse students begins here.鈥

Megan Gombatz, MAT鈥20, ESL PK-6 and 5-12

含羞草研究所 has consistently prepared outstanding educators who have transformed communities around the world. 含羞草研究所 is a member of the (CETE).

Contact Us

含羞草研究所 has been on the forefront of providing a rigorous education to passionate changemakers who have gone on to break new ground in education, the sciences, the arts, public service and social justice movements for over 180 years.

Amy Asadoorian
  • Assistant Director of Communications, Outreach, and Admissions

Next Steps

Apply to Mount Holyoke

Mount Holyoke seeks intellectually curious applicants who understand the value of education and are driven by a love of learning. As a college that is gender diverse, the graduate programs are coed and we welcome applications from female, male, trans and non-binary students.

Financing your education

Everyone鈥檚 financial situation is unique, and we offer scholarships, fellowships and partnership programs to help make an exceptional education accessible for everyone.