Program Overview
The Curriculum and Instruction - with Certification (MCERT), Master of Education (M.Ed.) program offers a comprehensive pathway to elementary, middle school, secondary or preK-12 teacher certification and a Master of Education degree in just one year. Designed for aspiring educators across various grade levels and subject areas, MCERT combines rigorous coursework with intensive mentored internships in partnership with school districts like Anne Arundel, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s Counties.
Certification Areas
- Elementary Level (Grades 1-6)
- General Education
- Middle School Level (Grades 4-9)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Secondary Level (Grades 7-12)
- Computer Science
- English
- Mathematics
- Sciences:
- Agricultural and Extension Education
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Earth/Space Science
- Physics
- Social Studies
- PreK-12 Level (All grades)
- Art
- Physical Education
- TESOL
- World Language
- Arabic
- Chinese
- French
- German
- Italian
- Latin
- Russian
- Spanish
Program Advantages
Throughout the entire internship year, you will apprentice in classrooms with experienced certified teachers who serve as mentors. The classrooms serve as “learning laboratories” where you can practice the ideas and concepts that you are studying in your courses and learn the essentials of instructional planning, responsive teaching, embracing diversity, and the ongoing assessment of student learning. In addition, you will receive support during the school year from a university-based supervisor and a subject-based coordinator, who are experienced educators in the area of the intern’s certification field.
MCERT interns, also referred to as “teacher candidates,” are organized into content area and grade-level cohort groups. These groups work closely with faculty and public school staff, enroll in the same classes, and participate in an ongoing peer-support network for interactive learning and support through a seminar course. The seminar experiences provide instruction that complements the internship.
Created in 1985, MCERT has expanded to encompass partnerships with four neighboring school districts: Anne Arundel, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s Counties. Select partners from these school districts, in which we have 25 school sites, join university faculty in the development of the program curriculum. Most MCERT interns study in Professional Development (PDS) schools across these four districts and in other districts depending on the content area/grade level needs.
The College of Education is fully accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), and our programs are approved by the Maryland State Department of Education. MCERT provides all necessary requirements for Maryland State Certification, combining the rigorous coursework and content/grade level-specific internship (student teaching). Upon successful completion of the program, you are recommended to the Maryland State Department of Education for licensure. Maryland has reciprocity with other states and U.S. territories.
The University of Maryland’s reputation and location near Washington, D.C. provides you with a wealth of opportunities to work in diverse school districts, collaborate with educational associations, and engage in important, practical research.
#11
Best Curriculum and Instruction program by U.S. News & World Report
Learning Goals
Learning Goals
- Demonstrate competency in subject matter, curriculum, pedagogy, and content knowledge, enabling effective teaching across diverse student populations.
- Develop a profound understanding of learners' social and cultural contexts, embracing a global perspective and sensitivity to diverse cultures to create inclusive learning environments.
- Practice evidence-based decision-making using assessment tools and critical research interpretation to enhance educational practices and improve student learning outcomes.
- Integrate technology into instructional practices to support student engagement and achievement, employing data-driven solutions for continuous instructional improvement.
- Advocate for student needs within school districts and classrooms, equipped to lead educational initiatives that promote the holistic development of PK-16 learners and advance educational equity.
Careers
Career Options
Graduates of the MCERT program are prepared to pursue teaching positions in public and private schools across Maryland and beyond. You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to meet the diverse needs of students, advocate for educational equity, and contribute to positive learning outcomes in their classrooms.
How to Apply
How to Apply
- Step 1: Download the MCERT Admissions Handbook 2023-2024.
- Step 2: Contact the program with questions or attend an information session.
- Step 3: Request a Preliminary Transcript Review.
- Step 4: Complete online Graduate School application.
Applications must be complete on the dates listed:
- Priority deadline November 4, 2024
- Final deadline March 3, 2025
- The Social Studies specialization deadline is February 3, 2025
Information on admissions and application to this program can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website.
Admission Requirements Guide to Applying
In addition to the Graduate School requirements, this program has the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree with 3.0 GPA
- Experience with children or young adults
- Strong background in certification area content
- Praxis II Requirements for Teacher Certification Track Graduate Programs
“I have so many ideas that I have learned from this program that I want to implement into my own classroom. I want to establish a positive and loving learning community in my classroom, where all my future students are valued and challenged. I am very passionate about working towards educational equity for all students, and I hope that it will be evident in my future classroom.”
Requirements
Program Requirements
Successful completion of this program will require:
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above for required coursework.
- Passing Praxis II content test.
- Successful completion of portfolio.
- Successful completion of TLPL 698 and submission of Action Research paper.
- Successful completion of MCERT internship.
- Satisfactory performance on Foundational Competencies, Final PBA, and edTPA.
- Applying for Graduation and submitting a Master’s Approved Form by deadlines.
- Fulfillment of all provisions/prerequisites required in the terms of your initial offer of admission to UMCP/MCERT.
Full details can be found in the program handbook:
Contact
Contact
Requests for a transcript review from the COE Office of Student Services must be made prior to submitting the Graduate School application.
For admissions and preliminary transcript review, please contact:
Office of Student Services
ed-advising@umd.edu
301-405-2364
For Admissions and General MCERT Program Information, please contact:
Joy Jones
MCERT Graduate Pathway Coordinator
mcert@umd.edu.
301-405-4448
Info Session & Events
Upcoming Events