I am a recent college graduate interested in pursuing an MAT to begin with.

What are some of the best MAT programs out there? I'm intend to pursue an MAT, then teach for a while, and then probably pursue advanced study in education, perhaps eventually towards a phD. So -- I'm hoping to find an MAT program that is going to be both practical and yet provide some preparation into research/further graduate study.

I really want to find an MAT program that has an excellent reputation and faculty -- but rankings/comparisons aren't as readily available for these types of programs as with other graduate programs. I already have some programs I've looked into and am currently applying to, but don't want to miss any good ones. I am particularly interested in programs known for innovative biology teaching... Anyone have some advice or suggestions?