MAT Program
Christopher Newport University’s Teacher Preparation Program was fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) in 2024.
In the fall of 2025, it was recognized with CAEP’s prestigious Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement Award. In order to be selected, institutions had to achieve accreditation from CAEP without any required improvements. Schools were also required to demonstrate that they offer students a top-quality, fully accountable teacher prep program.
The award highlights the University’s success in producing future teachers who have not only mastered teaching methods and subject matters, but who are also ready to step into their classrooms and have an immediate impact.
We offer 12 teaching endorsements in a variety of fields, all of which were reviewed and accredited by CAEP:
- Biology (grades 6–12)
- Chemistry (grades 6–12)
- Elementary (grades PK–6)
- English (grades 6–12)
- English as a second language (grades PK–12)
- History and social science (grades 6–12)
- Mathematics (grades 6–12)
- Music, choral (grades PK–12)*
- Music, instrumental (grades PK–12)*
- Physics (grades 6–12)
- Spanish (grades PK–12)
- Visual art (grades PK–12)
*five-year program only
Becoming a great teacher means embarking on a program of study that will give you both the content and pedagogical knowledge you need to be successful. Our programs are designed to prepare you to become a highly qualified teacher who is licensed to teach in Virginia and in many other states.
We offer three program options:
Combined Bachelor's to Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Five-Year Degree
Current Christopher Newport students can apply during their junior year and earn a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and a recommendation for a license to teach in Virginia in one additional year.
Already Degreed to Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) with Licensure
Those who have obtained a baccalaureate degree and desire to enroll in the Master of Arts in Teaching with Licensure program enter in a degree-seeking status.
Initial Licensure
Those who have obtained a baccalaureate degree and desire to seek a Commonwealth of Virginia license enter in a non-degree status.