Turn your expertise into a meaningful teaching career. Buena Vista University's online Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) – Secondary Education program is designed for career changers and aspiring educators who want to earn initial Iowa teaching licensure while completing a master's degree. Through flexible online coursework, personalized faculty support, and classroom-based experiences, you'll develop the knowledge and confidence to inspire students in grades 5-12.
Whether your background is in business, English, mathematics, science, history, or another secondary content area, BVU provides an affordable, supportive pathway to the classroom—without putting your life on hold.
Fast Facts
Format: 100% online coursework
Duration: Complete in approximately 2 years
Cost: $495 per credit hour
Start Dates: August & January
GRE: Not Required
Licensure: Initial Iowa Teaching Licensure (Grades 5-12)
Why study Master of Arts in Teaching: Secondary Education at BVU
Whether you're changing careers or pursuing your passion for teaching, BVU prepares you to become a confident, licensed educator ready to make a difference in the classroom.
Designed for Career Changers
Your bachelor's degree is just the beginning. If you've completed the required coursework in a secondary content area, BVU provides a clear pathway to earning your teaching license and transitioning into a rewarding career in education.
Flexible for Working Professionals
Balance graduate school with work and family through a fully online program featuring accelerated 7.5-week terms and one virtual class session each week. Complete your degree in approximately two years while continuing your current career.
Learn from Experienced Educators
Our faculty understand today's classrooms because they've led them. You'll learn from experienced educators who connect theory to practice and prepare you to become an effective middle or high school teacher.
Affordable Pathway to Licensure
Earn your master's degree and initial teaching licensure together through one streamlined program. With competitive tuition and no GRE requirement, BVU makes becoming a teacher both accessible and affordable.
Every course connected directly to my work with students.
"I chose BVU because I needed a graduate program that truly understood the heart of teaching. Every course has connected directly to my work with students who deserve patience, empathy, and someone who sees their potential. BVU has strengthened my skills and sharpened my purpose, helping me grow into an educator who leads with compassion, evidence-based practice, and unwavering belief in every child."
— Kelley DeLong
Learn by doing, from day one
Designed for aspiring secondary educators, this program combines flexible online coursework with meaningful clinical experiences to prepare you for today's classrooms. Throughout the program, you'll:
Develop effective instructional strategies for grades 5-12.
Strengthen classroom management and student engagement skills.
Apply learning through field experiences and clinical practice.
Prepare for Iowa teacher licensure in your content area.
Collaborate with experienced faculty and a community of aspiring educators.
Licensure Information
The Master of Arts in Teaching – Secondary Education prepares graduates for initial Iowa teaching licensure in grades 5-12 within approved content areas.
Available licensure pathways include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History / Social Studies
- Business
- Spanish
- Physical Education
If you plan to teach outside Iowa, BVU's Graduate Programs team can help you understand your state's licensure requirements.
BVU master of arts in teaching: secondary education graduates go far.
Where this degree can take you
Ready to Make a Difference in the Classroom?
Take your bachelor's degree further by becoming a licensed teacher. BVU's Master of Arts in Teaching: Secondary Education combines flexible online learning with hands-on classroom experiences to prepare you for success.