MAT Elementary Education
Build Your Dream While Shaping Young Futures
Saint Xavier University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Elementary Education
prepares you to earn your Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement
to teach students in grades 1-6. The program offers an alternative licensure path
in a flexible online format, allowing you to tailor your learning experience to your
personal and professional commitments.
Note: Applications are no longer being accepted for the traditional MAT and M.A. graduate
programs. SXU will continue to offer the MAT Alternative Licensure graduate programs.
Please contact Tony DeCesare, Ph.D., interim director of Education, for additional
questions at decesareFREESXU.*
FORMAT
Online
PROGRAM LENGTH
PEL: 12 Months
PEL and Alternative MAT: 15 Months
CREDIT HOURS
PEL: 26 Credits Hours
PEL and Alternative MAT: 32 Credit Hours
COST
Tuition Per Credit Hour: $575
Credit Hours to Complete: 26 - 45
Approximate Cost: $18,400 - $25,875
Why Earn your MAT Elementary Education Degree?
Earning your MAT in Elementary Education at SXU will equip you with the skills, knowledge and credentials to advance your teaching career. Tailored to young learners, this program helps educators develop advanced teaching methods to stay current with educational research and best practices. Your MAT may lead to higher positions within schools, such as leadership roles or specialized instructional positions, with many school districts offering higher pay scales for teachers with advanced degrees. Whether you're starting your journey or seeking a new career path, this program provides the flexibility to balance work, family and education. With the online option, SXU's program provides an affordable and transformative experience that leads to Illinois licensure and a master's degree.
About the Program
The alternative licensure path allows you to work as the teacher of record while pursuing your degree, combining accelerated coursework with classroom experience and one-on-one mentoring. Both paths provide you with the tools to excel as a teacher and positively impact the lives of elementary school students.
SXU's program integrates rigorous coursework with hands-on teaching experiences, including fieldwork and classroom observations. You will also receive personalized mentoring and support from both a site-based coach and a University coordinator. The combination of practical experience and academic learning ensures you are fully prepared for your future classroom.
Upon completion of the program, you will be skilled in designing and delivering effective lessons, assessing student progress, and managing diverse classroom environments. Graduates will be equipped to meet the needs of all students, differentiate instruction, and contribute to the academic success of their future classrooms.
Alternative Licensure
Unlock your potential with our accelerated 15-month program.
Education Alternative LicensureQuick Links
Request Information
Want to know more about graduate programs at Saint Xavier University? Please fill out the form below!
Contact the Office of Admission
- 773-298-3050
- Toll Free: 844-GOTO-SXU (844-468-6798)
- Fax: 773-298-3076
- Email: admissionFREESXU
- M-F: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
program coordinator
Melissa Stefanko
Elementary Education Program Coordinator
Phone: 773-298-3225
Email: stefankoFREESXU
Meet the Faculty
Matthew Bridges
Assistant Professor
Phone: 773-298-3272
Email: mbridges@sxu.edu
Tony DeCesare
Dir Educ / Asst Prof
Phone: 773-298-3222
Email: decesare@sxu.edu
Kenneth Drake
Project Man. & Lic. Officer
Phone: 773-298-3207
Email: drake@sxu.edu
Camille Griffin
Assistant Professor
Phone: 773-298-3206
Email: crgriffin@sxu.edu
Sawsan Jaber
Assistant Professor
Phone: 773-298-3205
Email: jaber@sxu.edu
Kate McConnell
Assistant Professor
Phone: 773-298-3435
Email: mcconnell@sxu.edu
Lydia O'Grady
Clinical Exper & Intern Spec
Phone: 773-298-3220
Email: ogrady@sxu.edu
Julie Reinhart
Professor
Phone: 773-341-5030
Email: jreinhart@sxu.edu
Rania Sadeq
Assistant Professor
Phone: 773-298-3224
Email: sadeq@sxu.edu
Melissa Stefanko
Lect / Prog Coor Elem Ed
Phone: 773-298-3225
Email: stefanko@sxu.edu
Vickie Vertucci
Department Assistant
Phone: 773-298-3203
Email: vertucci@sxu.edu