
salemstate.edu/graduate
“The MAT in Spanish program at Salem State has been transformative for me, both professionally and personally. As someone with years of experience in early childhood education, transitioning to teaching high school students has been a rewarding challenge, and this program has supported me every step of the way. The courses are thoughtfully designed, the professors are incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, and there’s a strong emphasis on culturally responsive teaching. I’ve deepened my understanding of heritage language learners, strengthened my teaching philosophy, and gained tools that I apply daily in my classroom. This program not only helped me grow as a teacher, but also reaffirmed my passion for equitable, meaningful language education.”
CURRICULUM
Our MAT in Spanish program addresses all coursework needed for the elementary and secondary initial license, as well as elementary and secondary professional license.
PROGRAM: 38-39.5 CREDITS INITIAL
4 SPN courses for the initial program and 5 for the advanced, and a Research Monograph in Spanish for both.
SPN 705 Seminar in Latin American and U.S. Latino Literatures
SPN 706 Seminar in Peninsular Spanish Literature
SPN 710 Seminar in Cultures of Spain
SPN 711 Seminar in Latin American and U.S. Latino Cultures
SPN 750 Introduction to Spanish Linguistics and Sociolinguistics
SPN 900 MAT Research Monograph
• 2 semester-long Spanish-specific methods courses
• 1 semester-long supervised practicum
• Strong field experiences and content courses
LICENSURE:
For those seeking initial license , after completing the MAT in Spanish and finishing three years of teaching under the initial license, students will be eligible for their professional license. With this program, students will receive both their initial and professional licenses and the experience necessary for their teaching careers. Students pursuing professional license (advanced studies) from the start will complete 36 credits . They do not take the practicum or field courses and have flexibility in education course selection. Required Action Research in Spanish with Clinical. Spanish-specific methods courses strongly recommended.
COURSE FORMAT:
Online, mostly synchronous courses.
LENGTH OF PROGRAM:
2.5-3 years, approximate time to complete. Two courses per semester and one/two in the summer. Offerings are focused on students who are teaching, providing maximum flexibility for working professionals.