Master of Arts in Teaching with Preliminary Teaching License: Elementary – Multiple Subjects

All applicants to the MAT with Preliminary Teaching License: Elementary — Multiple Subjects program must demonstrate competency in foundational mathematics. Applicants may demonstrate mathematics competency in one of three ways:

1. Earn a letter grade of “B-” or better in at least one 100 level or above college course focused on the study of mathematics (i.e. a course with a MATH prefix). Math-related courses in statistics, physics, business or other subject areas will not be accepted in lieu of the mathematics requirement. Students must take the course for a letter grade. (No Pass/Fail.)
2. Provide documentation of a passing score (220) in the NES Elementary Education Subtest II.
3. Demonstrate mathematical competency through a comprehensive content-based interview with a Lewis & Clark Teacher Education faculty member. (This option available to applicants only who have been admitted to the program and requires program director approval.)

All applicants to the MAT. with Preliminary Teaching License: Elementary-Multiple Subjects program must demonstrate competency in science. Applicants may demonstrate science competency in one of three ways:

1. Earn a letter grade of “B-” or better in at least one 100 level or above college course in any physical, earth, or life science (e.g. a course with a BIO, CHEM, ASTR, PHY, GEOL prefix or a course designed for teaching science SCI 311U, SCI 312U). Students must take the course for a letter grade. (No Pass/Fail.)
2. Provide documentation of a passing score (220) in the NES Elementary Education Subtest II.
3. Demonstrate science competency through a comprehensive content-based interview with a Lewis & Clark Teacher Education faculty member. (This option available to applicants who have been admitted to the program and requires program director approval.)

Candidates for admission must have a history of work, either volunteer or paid, with children in grades preK-6. This experience must occur in school settings such as a public or private school, state licensed charter, or other school serving students in these grades. A minimum of 20 hours are required. For admissions purposes, teaching swimming, music or dance lessons, coaching youth, working as a nanny, a day care teacher, or as a private tutor are not accepted as approved classroom experiences with children. If a parent of school-aged children, experience in your child’s classroom typically does not fulfill this requirement unless you were involved in academic work with children other than your own. Applicants are required to provide documentation from a teacher or administrator who has observed the classroom work. 

Admission to the graduate school requires the completion of all standard admissions requirements in addition to the program-specific admission requirements outlined below.

Applicants to the Elementary — Multiple Subjects programs are required to write three essays. Essays may be single-spaced or double-spaced and can be submitted electronically (email attachment or as part of the online application).

Essay 1 — Compose a statement detailing your goals for graduate study. What are the key questions or issues that have led you to pursue your education in this area? Describe why you believe the profession of teaching is appropriate for you. (1-2 pages)

Essay 2 — Briefly describe any cross-cultural experiences that have enriched your life and will contribute to your being a culturally competent professional. Explain how these experiences relate to Lewis & Clark’s diversity and social justice mission and vision. (1-2 pages)

Essay 3 — How have your life experiences enriched your perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion? Can you share instances where you’ve harnessed your strengths and assets, or navigated challenges during your journey towards graduate education? How have these experiences influenced your aspirations and commitment to pursuing a degree with Lewis & Clark? (1-2 pages)

We require letters of recommendation from three individuals who know you and are qualified to evaluate your academic competence, character and/or experience in professional or leadership roles. Professors, supervisors, and employers are often the best sources. Teachers or administrators who have observed your volunteer or paid experience in the classroom or working with elementary children are also good sources. References from a personal therapist, family members, or friends are not accepted. 

Applicants must verify their classroom experience (minimum of 20 hours.) If you completed the hours by volunteering or working at more than one school, please complete a form for each school. Applicants in the process of completing their hours may still apply.

Classroom Volunteer/Work Experience Verification form (.pdf)

All applicants must hold a minimum 2.75 GPA (on a 4.0 scale), or the equivalent in their undergraduate degree.

Applicants who have an GPA of less than a 2.75 on their undergraduate, degree-posted transcript are required to provide a statement that explains their previous academic record

Qualified applicants will be invited to interview with faculty. Selection will be based on initial faculty review of completed applications.