Early Start Program
Early Start program for current UofL undergraduates majoring in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics
The Early Start program is designed to allow undergraduate students an opportunity to enroll in Master's level Education course work during their senior year. The credit hours earned in the Master's level Education courses can be used for both the undergraduate degree and the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. Up to nine credit hours of MAT courses can be completed by undergraduate students who have been accepted to the program.
Students admitted to the Early Start program may pursue certification through the MAT program in the content areas of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics. Students may also choose to pursue an extension of certification for Middle Grades Mathematics or Science as well. The undergraduate major and courses completed toward degree determine eligibility for content area certifications.
You are encouraged to find out more about the MAT program in Secondary Education. You are welcome to attend one of our monthly MAT information sessions or schedule an appointment to meet with Betty Hampton, Director of Initial Teacher Certification Student Services. You can reach Ms. Hampton at (502) 852-0411 or betty.hampton @ louisville.edu.
Why choose Early Start?
If you love science and/or mathematics and would like to become a certified teacher, then you should consider this program:
- By "double counting" nine credit hours of Education courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, students will be able to complete the MAT program more quickly.
- Teachers with an MAT earn a higher salary than their counterparts with a Bachelor's degree
- Substantial financial aid assistance for aspiring mathematics and science teachers is available from both state and federal sources. In addition, Stafford Loans can be forgiven - up to $17,500 for mathematics and science teachers who meet all of the qualifications of the Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program.
Noyce Teaching Scholars
UofL's Early Start Noyce Teaching Scholars program is seeking junior or senior students who are pursuing a major in mathematics or science and are considering the teaching profession! This prestigious program, funded by the National Science Foundation, awards a MINIMUM of $10,000 per year in forgivable loans to students who are willing to teach for two years for every year of scholarship they receive.
Admission Requirements
Please see admission requirements for Noyce Teaching Scholars.
The teacher education admission portfolio is a combination of forms, test scores, and other requirements that applicants will submit to the College of Education and Human Development. Please see below for specific instructions.
