Curriculum and Instruction - Creative Initiatives in Teacher Education Specialization (CITE) (Hybrid), M.Ed.

At a Glance

Leads to Teacher License?

Yes

Avg. Duration

2 years (5 consecutive semesters)

Start Term

Fall

Required Credits

Course Load

Part-time

Location

Hybrid (courses are offered in-person and online)

Accreditation

Maryland State Department of Education

Application Deadline

June 2, 2026

Program Overview

Earn your M.Ed. and Maryland elementary teaching licensure (grades 1–6) while continuing to work in a school setting. The Creative Initiatives in Teacher Education (CITE) is a two-year, cohort-based, graduate-level, teacher preparation program for school-based professionals (e.g. paraeducators, conditionally hired teachers, teacher assistants). Through a flexible blend of online and in-person coursework, participants complete certification requirements and an internship within their current school-based role.

Why choose CITE?

Earn your M.Ed. and teaching certification while employed.
Flexible blended-learning format.
Complete your internship in your current school setting.
Receive support from mentor teachers, faculty, and program leaders.
Join a collaborative cohort of aspiring educators committed to growing together.

94%

graduation rate

Learning Goals

Foster positive and supportive learning environments where all students can thrive.
Use research-based teaching practices to support academic, social, and emotional growth.
Design engaging, standards-aligned instruction that effectively integrates technology.

How to Apply

Admissions information and the application for this program can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website. Additionally, all applicants to a teacher certification program must review the Foundational Competencies (FC) and Model Code of Ethics for Educators (MCEE) Introduction and submit an acknowledgment survey. A PDF copy of the completed acknowledgment survey must be uploaded to the TerpEngage Application. As part of your application package, you must also submit:

Three professional recommendations including one from current principal/supervisor
A CV/resume outlining experiences working with children and
Demonstrate completion of MSDE-required prerequisite courses for credit in math, English, science and social sciences

Admissions Requirements Guide to Applying

Please also refer to our Application Instructions for information on how to apply to this program.

97%

hiring rate within Maryland school districts

Program Faculty