Program Overview
Our program offers an experience designed to prepare aspiring educators to excel in teaching English Language Arts (ELA) in grades 7-12. Through collaborative relationships with our local school districts, you will gain valuable hands-on experience and learn from expert teachers while honing your own teaching practice. Our curriculum emphasizes active student engagement and equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to meet the diverse needs of learners in today's classrooms.
Key Features
- Practical Experience: Immerse yourself in the life of a teacher through close observation of expert teachers and hands-on teaching opportunities.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain expertise in teaching English through a wide array of culturally diverse young adult literature
- Double Major: Earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree with a double major in English and English Education, providing a strong foundation in both subject matter content and pedagogy.
- Certification Preparation: Meet the teaching certification requirements for the State of Maryland and most other states, ensuring eligibility for a wide range of teaching opportunities upon graduation.
“The College of Education stood out to me because of the core values it promotes such as leadership, responsibility and integrity. These are essential to set the example and spread a message of equity and inclusion in the classroom. I chose the College of Education because it provides opportunities to transform the world of education.”
Learning Goals
Learning Goals
- Demonstrate proficiency in teaching English Language Arts content and skills in grades 7-12.
- Design engaging and culturally responsive lessons that cater to the diverse needs of students.
- Utilize effective instructional strategies to foster critical thinking, communication, and literacy skills.
- Collaborate with colleagues, families, and communities to create inclusive and supportive learning environments.
Careers
Career Options
Our program prepares you to be a Secondary English Language Arts Teacher in the classroom. Additional and future options might include:
- Curriculum Developers for educational organizations and publishing companies
- Education Consultants for government agencies and non-profit organizations
- Literacy Coaches or Specialists in school districts and educational institutions
How to Apply
How to Apply
Admission into our Professional Teacher Education programs is selective. You must take the following steps to be considered:
- Apply and be admitted to the University of Maryland
- Attend a Major Exploration Workshop (UMD internal transfers only)
- Meet with an Academic Advisor
- Meet all selective admission requirements for your specific program of interest
- Complete the Professional Application and submit Supplemental Application Materials
Students typically apply for professional teacher education programs at the end of sophomore or beginning of junior year.
Selective Admissions Requirements
The requirements below are in addition to being admitted to the University. Before completing the Professional Teacher Education Program Application, you should meet with a College of Education Academic Advisor.
- Admission to the University.
- Completion of a minimum of 45 credits
- Cumulative UMD GPA of 2.75 or higher; 3.0 GPA is recommended for best consideration
- Completion of lower-level Fundamental English requirement with a “C-” or better
- Completion of lower-level Fundamental Math requirement with a “C-” or better
- Minimum passing scores on a Basic Skills Tests (see advisor for details)
- Satisfactory completion of TLPL 451 with a “B-” or better
- Satisfactory completion of the upper-level content area courses. Consult Advisor for content area GPA requirement.
- A resume that shows prior experience in the education field with youth in the age range you intend to teach
- A written goal statement
- Three letters of recommendation (one must be from a faculty member or instructor)
- Satisfactory rating on the College of Education Foundational Competencies
Requirements
Program Requirements
This program is designed to meet the needs of today's educators. You'll build a solid foundation in English essentials and delve into specialized courses about teaching. The program culminates in a year-long teaching internship to give you real world experience.
Program Requirements and 4-Year Plan
The undergraduate internship experience is broken into two parts:
- Fall Senior Year: One day per week placement with an experienced mentor at two area schools (one middle school and one high school) where the intern has the opportunity to observe, reflect and participate in classroom activities.
- Spring Senior Year: Beginning the first week of January, 5 days a week full-time placement during which the intern will take on full responsibilities of a classroom teacher, including planning, instruction and assessment of students with the support of a veteran mentor teacher, supervisor and program coordinator.
"English majors understand human nature better than economists do."
Contact
Info Sessions & Events
Upcoming Events