University Description:

Saint Xavier University is a coeducational, private Catholic university serving a diverse student population of over 4,800. Saint Xavier offers thirty-six undergraduate majors, thirty-two graduate options in Business, Education, Counseling Psychology, Speech-Language Pathology, and Nursing. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy and chartered in 1847, Saint Xavier is one of the first institutions of higher learning in Illinois. Saint Xavier has occupied its present location at 103rd Street and Central Park since 1956. It became coeducational in 1969 and achieved University status in May 1992. Saint Xavier University is accredited at both bachelor's and master's levels by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602 (800-621-7440).

Program:

Master of Arts in Teaching and Leadership (M.A.T.L.)

Program Description:

The field-based Master of Arts in Teaching and Leadership degree program has been the choice of thousands of educators for more than 12 years. This program is designed for all K-12 Illinois educators who wish to earn their degree while remaining in the classroom. This is a partnership program between Saint Xavier University and SkyLight and is offered at more than 50 convenient sites throughout Illinois.

This program offers a stimulating face-to-face learning environment with instructors and colleagues without sacrificing convenience. The program structure focuses on immediate classroom application in a framework that meets the demanding schedules of today's teachers and is designed to have an immediate impact on improved student academic performance.

While completing the 32 semester hours over a two-year period, you will continuously apply what you learn to your own students in your own classroom. A site-based sequence of courses allows you to become a more effective practitioner and better prepared to make curriculum decisions based on research-based instructional practices.

The field-based M.A.T.L. degree program meets the Illinois Standards and addresses all five-core propositions of accomplished teaching and the principles of professional development established by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. This program can help educators move from initial to standard certification.

Accreditation:

The field-based M.A.T.L. degree program is approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Saint Xavier University is accredited by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

Program Schedule:

Saint Xavier University's field-based M.A.T.L. degree program has new sections starting each January and September.

Testimonials:

"The Field-Based Master's Program has been the single most important professional thing I have done as a teacher. It has been exhilarating and energizing. The best part is the collegiality and the teamwork. It opened up all kinds of new worlds."

"The courses in this program are the first ones I have taken that I really feel will add information to my teaching repertoire."

"The Field-Based Master's Program has affected not only me but my fellow teachers. I find myself continually sharing strategies and ideas with them. What I like best about this program is that I come away with innovative, exciting techniques I can apply directly in my classroom."