If you’re a teacher looking for advanced credentials, or a non-teacher with a bachelor’s degree in hand, consider the following paths leading to teacher licensure and specialization.
 
Alternative Licensure Programs
If you have at least a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, you may be eligible to apply to an “alternative entry” licensure program such as a Licensure-Only Program, developed individually based on your previous experience and education; a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.), which leads non-teaching specialists to an advanced degree; and WCU's alternative licensure program that also brings candidates part way to the M.A.T. degree.

Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Middle Grades Education
The EMGE department offers a M.A.T degree for non-teachers who possess degrees: the M.A.T. concentration in Middle Grades.

Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.)
Teaching professionals looking for an advanced degree can pursue a Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.). Western offers the following M.A.Ed. degrees in EMGE area: the M.A.Ed. in Elementary Education, the M.A.Ed. In Middle Grades Education, and the M.A.Ed. with a concentration in reading. A licensure specialist is available to help students with their M.A.Ed. licensure.