An Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) is a degree program offered at two-year institutions that prepares students for transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education. These programs typically include foundational coursework in education, child development, and subject-matter content relevant to the grade level or subject area the student intends to teach. For example, a student interested in becoming a high school math teacher might take courses in algebra, calculus, and geometry, alongside education-specific classes.
These programs play a vital role in addressing teacher shortages and increasing access to higher education for aspiring educators, particularly those from underserved communities. Completing an AAT at a community college often provides a more affordable pathway to a teaching career, allowing students to complete their initial coursework at a lower tuition rate. Historically, community colleges have served as crucial entry points into higher education for diverse student populations, and AAT programs extend this access to the teaching profession.
