Earn Your Teaching Certification and Transition to a Fulfilling Career with UTRGV’s Master of Arts in Teaching
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 | 4:10 PM
Sometimes a career feels like it’s missing something—purpose, fulfillment, the chance to make a real difference. Many professional find themselves in a similar situation, so much in fact that a recent survey 58% of workers are looking to make a career change. With the demand for teachers in Texas climbing, it’s no surprise many professionals are eyeing the classroom.
And as much as we’d like for life to stop to help us adjust to a career change — it won’t. Work, kids’ baseball practice, and other commitments aren’t going anywhere.
For those who hold a bachelor’s degree and are interested in taking a step into teaching, UTRGV’s fully online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) offers a streamlined path to earning certification while juggling everything else in life.
The Growing Demand for Teachers in Texas
There’s no question: Texas is grappling with a persistent and growing teacher shortage. Bilingual education and special education are among the hardest hit areas. According to the US Census Bureau (2022), teaching positions in Texas are expected to increase by 10-14% between 2018 and 2028. South Texas, in particular, has seen rapid job growth in education, fueled by both economic and population surges. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has taken notice, and placed the teacher shortage at the top of its priority list.
Competitive Salaries and Job Security
The teaching profession offers not only job security but also competitive salaries. Teachers in Texas earn between $54,000 and $65,000 annually, with those in specialized areas such as bilingual or special education often earning more. For those looking start a career in teaching, the education profession offers not just stability but meaningful work that makes an impact in children’s lives.
The Flexibility of a Fully Online Program
We can have an entire conversation about finding courses on campus that don’t interfere with your 9-5 and then having to figure out about afternoon commitments. The MAT program offers the online flexibility needed to balance work and study. While assignments and discussions for example have due dates, from where you submit them is up to you. Do your work early in the morning before everyone wakes up or late at night when you have free time. Online means studying and moving forward when it’s easier for you.
Get Certified With A Curriculum Tailored to Meet The Demand
The UTRGV MAT program is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that prepare future educators to thrive in the classroom. With a focus on meeting the needs of Texas schools, the curriculum offers three distinct specializations:
- Bilingual Education: Courses such as Bilingual Content Area Across the Curriculum and Principles and Practices of Biliteracy Development prepare students to address the unique challenges of bilingual classrooms, equipping them to foster biliteracy in Spanish and English.
- Special Education: Students in this track take courses like Survey of Exceptionalities and Inclusion Issues and Special Education Law, which provide a deep understanding of how to support students with diverse learning needs in inclusive environments.
- Generalist: For those seeking a broader scope, the generalist track includes courses like Curriculum Leadership for Teacher Leaders and Philosophy of Education, offering a comprehensive foundation in educational theory and leadership.
Each track is designed to meet the Texas Education Agency’s requirements for teacher certification, ensuring that graduates are fully prepared to take on the challenges of the modern classroom.
Tailored for South Texas
UTRGV’s MAT program is uniquely suited to address the educational needs of South Texas. With licensure pathways specifically designed for the Rio Grande Valley region, including Cameron, Willacy, Hidalgo, and Starr counties, graduates of the program will be ready to serve local communities where the demand for qualified teachers is highest.
Whether you specialize in bilingual education, special education, or pursue a generalist path, UTRGV’s MAT program equips you with the tools and expertise to succeed in your teaching career while making a difference in the lives of students across South Texas.
A Pathway to a Purpose-Driven Career
UTRGV’s Master of Arts in Teaching program offers a flexible, efficient route to teacher certification, allowing you to transition into a career where you can make a lasting impact. With a focus on high-need areas, competitive salaries, and the convenience of a fully online program, the MAT degree provides the opportunity to move into a meaningful, rewarding profession that addresses critical shortages in Texas schools.
If you're ready to pursue a fulfilling career in teaching, UTRGV’s MAT program provides the pathway you need to get there.
Start Your Teaching Journey Today. Apply Today!
Source:
https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/25-2031.00?st=TX&g=Go
https://www.talent.com/salary?job=bilingual+teacher&location=texas
https://comptroller.texas.gov/economy/economic-data/regions/2020/south.php
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