To gain a History endorsement, you must demonstrate your subject–matter knowledge in multiple ways.
Prior to your admission to the M.A.T. program, you need to complete History coursework and state-required content exams. While enrolled in the MAT program, you will complete coursework and have school-based placements to prepare you to teach History.
1. CONTENT PREPARATION
One part of preparing to teach History is a strong preparation in the subject. The best content preparation is a major in History. At a minimum, you should complete at least 45 quarter credits or 30-semester credits (7.5 Puget Sound units) of History coursework. Review the History Endorsement Competency. Suggested courses include:
- Coursework in U.S. History. At Puget Sound, take History 152 and 153: The American Experience.
- Coursework in Historical Methods. At Puget Sound, take History 200: Making History.
- At least one course focused on World History.
2. TESTING
You must pass the National Evaluations System's exam (NES) in History and submit scores from an approved basic skills test. No specific passing score is required for basic skills. Scores are used as a formative instrument to determine a candidate's basic skill level in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Please see our Testing Overview page for information on testing deadlines.
| BASIC SKILLS TESTING | CONTENT AREA TESTING | |
|---|---|---|
| HISTORY |
TEST: WEST–B or Alternative* Math, Reading, & Writing |
TEST: WEST–B 027 History |
*Out-of-state applicants may substitute either the PRAXIS I or CBEST for the WEST-B. Additionally, scores from the SAT or ACT after 2005 may be used to meet the basic skills requirement.
3. SCHOOL-BASED PLACEMENTS & COURSEWORK
You will complete middle school and high school teaching methods coursework and History-related school-based experiences during the academic year.
For additional information, contact Karen Stump at the School of Education.