master of arts in teaching leadership
This innovative degree program offers working professionals the opportunity to earn a Master's degree, within one year, from the prestigious Kalmanovitz School of Education, while maintaining a regular teaching schedule.
The coursework is practical in nature, geared toward creation and completion of an Action Research Project based on issues of importance in the candidates' teaching practice. Project findings are presented to professional colleagues at the annual Teaching Leadership Colloquium held each May. (MATL Brochure pdf)
"Developing close relationships with like professionals and working through the same struggles and solutions was very meaningful to me as I developed my skills as a teaching leader." - Program Graduate
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where do I start?
Year one participants start by enrolling in EDTL 600 — Exploring Teaching and Learning Leadership (3 units) and EDTL 610 — Connecting Teaching and Learning Practices (3 units). Second year participants take EDTL 700 — Developing Teaching and Learning Practices (3 units) and EDTL 710 — Investigating Reflective Learning (3 units).
What do I have to do to get credit?
EDTL 600 and EDTL 700 are aligned with induction completion requirements. For the practicum courses EDTL 610 and EDTL 710 participants need to implement the strategies learned at Saturday Seminars and meet with a College Coach in their regional Learning Community to demonstrate competence.
Is this program appropriate for experienced teachers and mentors, or just for beginning teachers?
This program is for ALL interested educators. Our learning communities bring together committed professional educators who desire to improve their teaching strategies, deepen their understanding and share their values and beliefs about education.
What does the registration fee cover?
The registration fee of $250 covers breakfast, lunch and snacks for all seminars, the resource binder, all handouts, room rental, speaker fees, etc.
What do I need to do to apply for the Master of Arts?
After successful completion of Level One that includes 12 units: EDTL 600, 610, 700, 710, participants file an Application for Graduate Studies form. This process includes a formal application to the Graduate School of Education, an essay, 3 letters of recommendation, official transcripts of previous college work and a personal interview. Teachers will then be notified of their official acceptance and be enrolled in the Master of Arts program.
When do the seminars meet?
During Level 1, seminars are held on six Saturdays throughout the year.
Time: 9:00 AM — 2:30 PM
For the Practicum seminars (EDTL 610 and EDTL 710), seminars will be conducted in regional learning communities, facilitated by Practicum Advisors. These times will be variable, depending on the needs of the participants. Practicum seminars will meet a minimum of 2 times throughout the year.
Where are the classes held?
The seminars for Level 1 are held at the Saint Mary's College campus in the Soda Center. Year three (Level 2) will be taught in regional cohort groups in learning communities off campus.
How long does the program take?
If students stay on schedule — the entire program can be completed in 3 years.
How many units are in the Master of Arts of Teaching Leadership Program?
There are a total of 30 semester units in the program. Please see "Course Descriptions" for course titles and sequence. There are 12 units in Level 1, 12 units in Level 2, and 6 units of independent study for the action research project.
What if I need to miss a seminar?
Per college policy, students are allowed one excused absence. Participants will need to contact their course facilitator in advance and make up the contact hours related to the focus standard for that seminar at another related professional development event. ALL assignments need to be completed and turned in to course facilitators.
Do I receive grades for the seminars?
Yes. Letter grades are given for EDTL 600 and EDTL 700. For the practicum courses, EDTL 610 and EDTL 710, participants are given pass/no pass grades.
Do I have to purchase books?
All readings, articles and handouts are provided for Level 1 as part of the registration fee. Books will be required for Level 2 at the participant's expense.
What do I need to do for the Practicum courses?
For EDTL 610 and EDTL 710, you need to implement the strategies learned in the seminar in your classroom and/or work setting. Practicum Advisors will facilitate regional practicum seminars in learning communities for participants to discuss the application of techniques learned in their classroom or work setting. Participants will provide evidence and student work samples to document their professional growth.
What does a "Practicum Advisor" do?
Practicum Advisors are competent, experienced adjunct faculty members who facilitate regional learning community seminars. They support their assigned participating teachers to assist in the implementation and demonstration of strategies learned in the seminars.
How much does the entire program cost?
As a service to our broader educational community — this program is offered at a significant discount from our normal college tuition. For Level 1 — there are 12 units at $125 each (6 units per year). The Level 2 program cost has been established at $375/unit for 2008-09.
Is there financial aid available?
Financial Aid will be available for Level 2 participants only, after they have received notice of admission to the MA program. Financial aid information can be obtained by calling the SMC Financial Aid Office at: 925.631.4370.
How does BTSA/Induction support this program?
Most BTSA/Induction programs in the region fully support and reimburse the registration fee for their participating teachers. Mentors and experienced teachers need to pay their own registration fees. Tuition costs are the responsibility for all candidates. BTSA funds may not be used for tuition.
Will my Induction completion requirements for my Professional Clear credential be complete after completing Level 1 (the first two years if seminars)?
The seminars are focused on the Induction Standards and the California Standards of the Teaching Profession. Sessions will integrate the competencies necessary for completion requirements. Grade-alike group sessions will discuss what teachers need to know and be able to do to be competent in the various standards. Resources and evidence will be provided for the participating teachers' portfolios. The participating teacher must demonstrate successful completion.
Is the Master of Arts degree accredited?
Saint Mary's College of California is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
What work do I need to do during the summer?
There are two summer intensive courses for one week during the summer after year two. There will be a choice of dates for these institutes. The summer after year two is intended for thorough inquiry, planning and investigation of topics that learners determine are essential for their teaching and learning, and that are based on the core program concepts for the M.A. program.
How does the program prepare me for National Board Certification?
Level 2 of the M.A. in Teaching Leadership integrates the standards and provisions for National Board Certification into all of the coursework and assignments. The program does not guarantee certification, but prepares candidates for this rigorous and rewarding process.
Do I need to write a thesis?
No. In this innovative master's program, candidates are required to identify and implement an action research project. This project needs to be written up and submitted for publication in a professional journal. The action research project will be presented in year three at the Teaching Leadership Colloquium. To assist the candidate for National Board review, a video of practice is required as well as a professional portfolio.
Will there be a commencement ceremony?
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Teaching Leadership will be invited to participate in traditional commencement exercise at Saint Mary's College that is held every May on campus.
