Maryland, like many other states, is in need of teachers. This state has a shortage of educators and the job market is expected to increase far beyond the national average over the next decade or so. Teachers are so important even as they fight against misconceptions about what they do. They are the future of our children, and even in a competitive field, it’s one of the most rewarding jobs you can enter. Learn what it takes to gain certification and licensure as a teacher in Maryland, the educational and experience requirements, and teacher responsibilities.
Maryland Teacher Certification Requirements
Maryland Teacher Certification Types
Most states use a tiered teacher certification system, and Maryland is no different. Licensure will advance through several stages as you gain experience and education. These licenses are the Professional Eligibility, Standard Professional I, Standard Professional II, and Advanced Professional Certificates, also called PEC, SPC I, SPC II, and APC.
Maryland Teacher Education
A basic license in Maryland requires a bachelor’s degree with a teaching preparation element from an accredited four-year institution.
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Master’s Degree Program
By the time you receive your APC, it’s likely you’ll have completed your master’s degree. Many choose to pursue this degree before becoming a teacher, to further increase their potential for earning.
Maryland Teacher Certification Exam
Getting licensed in Maryland requires a number of tests. These include the Praxis Core exam, the Praxis subject assessment exams for their subject and grade, and if foreign language teaching is desired, the ACTFL proficiency test.
Teacher Experience
You’ll need to gain student teaching experience to get your early licenses. Three years of teaching are required for the SPC II, and further education and experience will be required to achieve APC-level status.
Background Check
You must undergo federal and state criminal background check requirements.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Maryland Alternative Teacher Certification: Alternative paths to teaching include the resident teacher certificate, the conditional certificate and the transcript analysis certificate.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Each license type in Maryland is good for five years, after which it’s necessary to advance to the next level, or renew the license by meeting the right CEU credits. 12 credits in reading coursework are required for ECE and elementary teachers, while 6 hours are required for middle school and high school teachers.
- Maryland Substitute Teaching: You don’t need to be licensed or certified to substitute teach in Maryland.
- Reciprocity: Maryland does offer reciprocity so long as the certified out of state teacher completes a board-approved teacher prep program.
Discover teacher certification programs in Maryland that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in Maryland?
Teachers are responsible for not just delivering lessons, but protecting their students and building a passion for information and learning that will last their entire lives. They must have outstanding interpersonal and collaborative skills, confidence and leadership abilities. From lesson planning to acting as a guide for children with behavioral difficulties, no two days are the same for a Maryland teacher.
Maryland Teacher Salary
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics figures, Maryland is an outstanding state in which to pursue teaching as a profession. It’s expected to enjoy 27.4% growth over the next ten years, and teachers in the state earn on average $65,940 per year.
Maryland Teacher Certification Links
- Maryland Department of Education
- Maryland State Education Association
- Baltimore Alternative Preparation Program
Teacher Certification Programs in Maryland
Teacher Certification Programs in Maryland
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Choose your area of study and receive free information about programs you are interested in. Becoming a teacher is an important decision that requires commitment, dedication, and passion. Teacher certification requirements vary by state. However, there are a number qualifications that every state requires to teach at the public school level. Request information from multiple schools to find the best program and educational opportunity for you!