Overview

Sweet Briar College offers two distinct coeducational graduate programs in the field of education focusing on differentiated curriculum and instruction. Differentiation is a philosophy that honors and celebrates the unique qualities of individual students, recognizing that "one-size-fits-all" teaching is not appropriate for the diverse needs of students in today's inclusive classrooms.

It provides learning options that match students' readiness levels, interests and learning profiles (learning style, intelligence dominance, culture and gender). Teachers who differentiate effectively are prepared to offer students varied approaches to curriculum content, a variety of sense-making experiences to deepen understanding and multiple options for demonstrating what they have learned.

To date, Sweet Briar is the only college in the country to offer graduate degrees in differentiated curriculum and instruction.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

The Master of Arts in Teaching is designed for those men and women with a bachelors degree who do not hold a teaching license in Virginia or any other state. It is a full-time program that prepares candidates for licensure in one calendar (June-May) year.

The benefits of enrolling in SBC's MAT program include the following:

• The program focuses on differentiated curriculum and instruction, which helps prospective teachers meet the variety of needs they are likely to encounter in the classroom.
• MAT students are paired with clinical faculty members who have extensive training in mentoring pre-service teachers and in differentiating curriculum and instruction.
• Courses are offered in late afternoons and evenings to allow students to substitute teach in local schools and "earn while they learn."
• Certain courses combine MAT and M.Ed. candidates, creating exciting learning opportunities for current and prospective teachers to share learning experiences.
• Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 47 other states, so candidates can earn their license in Virginia and be eligible to teach almost anywhere in the United States.
• Completion of the MAT program offers graduates the benefits of a higher salary potential in most school districts throughout the country.

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

The Master of Education in Differentiated Curriculum and Instruction is a coeducational degree program for college graduates with a teaching license and a minimum of three years of teaching experience who seek professional advancement.

The benefits of enrolling in SBC's Master of Education degree program include the following:

• Courses are offered in late afternoons and evenings to work with teachers' busy schedules.
• The degree can be pursued on a part-time or a full-time basis.
• The program focuses on a deep understanding of differentiated curriculum and instruction, helping teachers meet the diverse needs of the students they teach.
• Certain courses combine MAT and M.Ed. candidates, creating exciting learning opportunities for current and prospective teachers to share learning experiences.