Combined Master’s and Teaching Credential Program Guide
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Key Takeaways
- Combined master’s and teaching credential programs allow individuals with a bachelor’s to obtain a master’s and teaching credentials simultaneously in as little as 14 months, fast-tracking their entry into the classroom.
- By expediting your graduation timeline, master’s and teacher credentialing programs can save you money on your education compared to non-combined programs.
- Graduates can pursue work as public K-12 educators, as well as vice principal or principal positions if they meet additional requirements.
Teachers are dedicated and hardworking professionals. And while some decide to pursue a career in teaching early on, others make the decision later in life — and that’s OK. Either way, there’s a path for you.
If you’ve already earned a bachelor’s degree and are interested in pursuing a career in education, you can complete a master’s degree and earn your teaching credentials at the same time.
Why consider a combined teaching program? Because combined master’s and teaching credential programs are set up to help you get into the classroom — and fast.
What Is a Combined Master’s and Teaching Credential Program?
There are specific requirements for becoming a licensed teacher. A combined master’s and teaching credential program allows you to earn a master’s degree in an education area while also meeting the requirements to obtain your teaching credentials.
Depending on your career goals, your path will include completing a combined master’s and teaching credential program through pursuing a master of education (M.Ed.) or a master of teaching (MAT).
So what’s the difference between an MAT vs. an M.Ed.?
M.Ed.
- Specialize in educational topics like inclusive learning or curriculum and instruction.
- Prep for specialized teaching roles like STEAM or literacy.
- Popular option for those seeking careers in administrative leadership, counseling, or educational policy.
MAT
- Specialize in elementary education or secondary subjects like English or math.
- Prep for classroom teaching with coursework on classroom management and teaching philosophies.
- Popular option for people who do not have a bachelor’s in education or who are not already certified teachers.
Admission Requirements for Combined Master’s and Teaching Credential Programs
To apply to a master’s program, you must hold a bachelor’s degree. But keep in mind that each college has its own requirements.
A combined master’s and teaching credential program prerequisites could include:
- Letters of recommendation
- Experience or student teaching hours
- Personal essay
- Minimum undergraduate GPA
- GRE scores
Available Credentials in Combined Master’s and Teaching Programs
Most teachers go into a master’s and teaching credential program knowing what age group they want to work with, or what content they like to teach. Depending on your interests, you’ll pursue either a single-subject teaching credential or a multiple-subject teaching credential.
Single-Subject Teaching Credentials
- You want to teach middle or high school-aged students.
- You are passionate about teaching a specific subject like English or science.
- You’ll deeply explore your content with strategies for working with secondary students.
Multiple-Subject Teaching Credentials
- You enjoy working with elementary-aged kids.
- You want to work mostly with one class of students teaching all subjects (humanities, science, etc.)
- You’ll learn curriculum standards for age groups, and classroom management strategies for young kids.
Careers You Can Pursue With a Master’s in Teaching
Combined master’s and teaching credential programs qualify you to work as a public K-12 educator. Your program’s concentration area determines your initial career path. Your university may offer primary, secondary, special, or career and technical education concentrations.
Some states refer to a teaching credential as a license. You may use your credential or license to work in states with licensure reciprocity. The Education Commission of the States website posts the latest reciprocity information.
A master’s degree and work experience may qualify you to work as a vice principal or principal within your district. Other requirements may include exams. Check with your district office for more information.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) |
|---|---|
| Career and Technical Education Teacher | $62,910 |
| Elementary School Teacher | $62,310 |
| High School Teacher | $64,580 |
| Middle School Teacher | $62,970 |
| Special Education Teacher | $64,270 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Combined Master’s and Teaching Credential Programs
You can complete a combined master’s and teaching credential program in as little as 14 months. Each program has its own credit and course requirements, but typically full-time students can earn their degree and teaching credentials in two years or less.
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Updated September 26, 2025