The MAT program at NC State University follows a mixed instructional model that includes courses that are online, face-to-face on campus, a mix of online and face-to-face (i.e., hybrid), as well as Distance Education off campus (i.e., in schools not far from the NC State campus in Raleigh). A total of 33 credit hours are required to complete the MAT degree program in special education (see below). Students are allowed to enroll in either part- or full-time status and begin studies in the spring, fall, or summer academic terms. The NC State University MAT degree program in special education prepares candidates to teach in K-12 schools in the U.S. Graduates earn both an initial NC teaching license in Special Education: General Curriculum and a Master's degree. In the MAT curriculum graduate students expand their knowledge of pedagogy and are exposed to ways in which to integrate practice with theory, as well as to experience today's culturally diverse and technology-enhanced classrooms. The MAT program in special education is designed for those who hold a Bachelor's degree but do not hold a valid NC teaching license. In addition, in order to be eligible for admittance, applicants must already have at least 6 college-level credit hours (with a grade of ''B'' or better) in each of the following content areas: English, Social Studies, Math, and Science. Candidates lacking in these content area courses can complete them at another college or university or as a NDS (non-degree student) at NC State prior to admission.