If you’re considering a graduate degree in education, chances are you have found yourself looking at two paths: one that would deepen your teaching skills and another that could open doors to leadership roles. One path starts with a Master's in Teaching (MAT) and the other with a Master's in Education (MEd). Which degree is right for your career? 

This is a common dilemma for educators seeking a postgraduate degree. Read on to learn more about the key differences between these degrees and how to make the best choice for your personal and professional goals. 

What Is a Master of Teaching (MAT)?

A Master of Teaching, or MAT, refers to Master of Arts in Teaching, a postgraduate degree that focuses on the practical side of teaching. Coursework covers classroom management, curriculum differentiation, and in-classroom observation and practice, among other topics. 

This degree is ideal for those who hold an unrelated BA and want to become licensed teachers. As in many programs, an MAT also includes certification. Although teaching requirements vary by state, most require a teaching certification program. 

An MAT degree also helps educators enhance their expertise and prepare them for leadership roles such as department head or mentor teacher. Specializations are typically divided by teaching areas such as:

  • Elementary Education
  • Middle Grades Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Special Education

In the middle and secondary education areas, MAT degrees often specialize in specific curriculum areas such as math, science, or language arts. Other Master’s in Teaching programs may focus on gifted education, teaching English as a second language, literacy, or technology. 

What Is a Master’s in Education (MEd)? 

MEd stands for Master’s in Education or, more formally, Master of Education. With a broader focus on education, this degree sets up graduates for various career paths, including leadership, curriculum design, education policy, research, and administration. 

Within your Master of Education, you can pursue a variety of specializations depending on your interests. A few to consider include:

  • K-12 Educational Leadership
  • Learning and Organizational Change
  • Education Technology
  • Curriculum
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Special Education
  • STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)

Those hoping to work in leadership roles may become school principals or instructional coordinators or hold roles in district offices. 

An MEd is popular because it offers flexibility for graduates. Educators may continue working in the classroom, apply for leadership roles, or step into areas such as corporate training, government policy related to education, curriculum design, and more. 

Master of Arts in Teaching vs. Master of Education: Key Differences

The main differences when considering an MAT vs MEd are career outcomes and goals. A Master of Arts in Teaching will focus on teaching skills for an in-classroom career. On the other hand, a Master of Education typically takes a broader approach, preparing graduates for roles in administration, curriculum development, policy, or educational leadership beyond the classroom.

As you may have noticed, focus areas between MAT and MEd degrees may overlap. For example, you can pursue a specialty in literacy and reading with either degree. However, an MAT will focus on in-classroom practices to help graduates effectively teach reading skills to students with various needs. The same literacy specialization in an MEd program may focus on preparing graduates to become curriculum specialists or fill leadership roles for school or district-wide literacy programs. 

Additionally, requirements often differ for MAT and MEd applicants. Because MAT programs often include a teaching certification, candidates may not have previous teaching experience. However, MEd programs may require hopeful students to hold a teaching certificate. 

As far as program length, it varies depending on your specialization. In general, most master’s programs take between 2-5 years to complete, and both MAT and MEd degrees fall within those norms. The length also depends on whether you study full-time, part-time, or complete coursework online. 

Master of Arts in Teaching vs. Master of Education: Which Should You Choose?

If you find yourself trying to choose between a Master's in Teaching vs. a Master's in Education, start by considering your academic and work experience. 

For those who don’t have teaching experience, a Master of Arts in Teaching may be the best choice. Many MEd programs require teaching experience. Additionally, teaching certification and experience are essential for many roles in education. For example, most school principals need to be licensed and certified. So, if you want to launch your career in education, the first logical step is to get a teaching certification, which you can achieve with an MAT. 

Educators and teachers with classroom experience should consider their future goals when weighing their options. Either an MAT or an MEd can help you advance your career. If you hope to move out of the classroom and into leadership or administrative roles, an MEd may be the best choice. 

Are you interested in changing specializations or becoming a teacher leader? Those who want to continue working hands-on in the classroom with students may prefer an MAT degree. Through an MAT program, you can deepen your understanding and develop skills to be a more effective teacher, especially in specific areas of focus such as special education. 

To help you make your decision, try talking with graduates from both MAT and MEd programs. In my experience, admissions officers are often willing to put candidates in touch with current or former students. By talking with graduates, you can learn more about program outcomes and the career opportunities you can expect. Or, speak with mentors who hold your ideal role to learn more about their journey. With these insights, you can make the best decision regarding an MAT vs MEd.

Taking the Next Step in Your Education Career

Pursuing a postgraduate degree in education can help you start your journey as an educator or take your teaching career to the next level. Whether you decide on a Master of Arts in Teaching or a Master of Education, your new degree will open a world of possibilities. 

Discover which education path is the best fit for you by taking our free education career quiz!