Program
The Museum is pleased to offer an innovative Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program that leverages its unique scientific resources and long history of leadership in teacher education and professional development. Funded in part by the New York State Department of Education and the National Science Foundation, this 15-month program addresses a critical shortage of qualified science teachers in New York State, particularly in high-needs schools with diverse populations. The MAT program is a partnership with six schools in New York City, Yonkers, and Freeport, Long Island. Developed and delivered in the context of a natural history museum, the program integrates academic theory and learning with application in a school setting, with a specialization in Earth Science for grades 7-12.
The MAT program employs intensive mentoring and extensive use of technology to provide degree candidates with a deep understanding of scientific content and of the importance of an inquiry-based approach to learning that demonstrates the relevance of science to students' lives. All coursework, both online and at the Museum, is taught by doctoral-level Museum scientists and educators.
Degree candidates spend two summers working with scientists and educators at the Museum, one in a youth program and the other in a science practicum residency. During the 10-month classroom residency, partner schools pair candidates with mentors — exemplary teachers selected by school principals. The residency includes a rotation with teachers of English Language Learners and students with disabilities. These mentored residencies provide critical clinical teaching opportunities to the degree candidates, as well as the opportunity to work with and learn from experienced science educators. Course assignments completed during residencies will be major components of a digital portfolio of practice, which will serve as the equivalent of a Master’s thesis.
Candidates who complete the AMNH program will be awarded a New York State Board of Regents–conferred Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree, with a Specialization in Earth Science for grades 7–12.
The program will also offer its graduates two years of induction: formal, early-career professional development and support focused on classroom management and curriculum development. Graduates commit to teaching at high-needs public schools in New York State for four years. By that time they will have deep knowledge of Earth and Space science content and pedagogy, a year of classroom experience, and an ongoing support network, anchored by a renowned research and educational institution.
Download the 2012-13 Academic Calendar (PDF)...
Academic Courses
All coursework is taught by doctoral-level Museum scientists and educators with an inquiry-based approach to learning that demonstrates the relevance of science to students' lives.
School Residency
At the center of the program is the Host School Residency, which takes place during the academic year in middle and high schools, over two semesters.
Museum Residencies
During the program's first summer, teacher candidates participate in a Museum-based teaching residency, and during the second summer, a Museum-based science practicum.
Program TImeline
The 36-credit program involves three concurrent components: courses, residencies, and mentoring.
MAT Program
Program
Address: Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024
Phone: (212) 313-7464
Fax: (212) 769-5329
Contact: mat@amnh.org
Office Hours
Weekly Hours for MAT Orientation
Appointments can be made Fridays from 3-6pm (2-6pm starting May 1) at the Museum or by phone.
PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
MAT Open House
September 15, 2012 (12-2pm, 2-4pm)
Join us for an overview of the new MAT program, meet the faculty, ask questions, and tour of the Museum campus.
PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
MAT Open House
November 9, 2012 (4-6pm, 6-8pm)
Join us for an overview of the new MAT program, meet the faculty, ask questions, and tour of the Museum campus.
PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
MAT Open House
January 6, 2013 (12-2pm, 2-4pm)
Join us for an overview of the new MAT program, meet the faculty, ask questions, and tour of the Museum campus.