How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Maryland

Special education tops Maryland’s list of subject areas with the highest need for teachers. The U.S. Department of Labor is projecting 10% growth in jobs for special education teachers in MD by 2032, compared to 2022. Bottom line: That’s nearly 1,000 open jobs every single year.

It’s not an easy role. Special education teachers work with some of the most vulnerable student populations. They need to understand multiple disability types, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and how to work with students to overcome obstacles. But special education teachers also have the chance to help their students succeed and to make a lasting difference in their lives.

If you’re interested in becoming a special education teacher in Maryland, this post will cover the steps you could take to earn your license and launch your teaching career in the Old Line State.

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Maryland

In many ways, special education teachers follow the same basic steps to licensure as general education teachers in Maryland. Special education teachers will need to pass specific licensure exams, and they may need particular coursework on working with students with disabilities. But the broad requirements are the same.

For an overview of the process, check out our How to Become a Teacher in Maryland guide. It outlines license types in Maryland, requirements for teachers, benefits of teaching in the Old Line State, and more.

What Do You Need to Be a Special Education Teacher in Maryland?

Special education teachers in Maryland need:

• A bachelor’s degree or higher
• A completed Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
• Passing scores on the Maryland licensure assessments
• A clear background check

The timeline depends on your starting point and your educational background. If you still need to earn your bachelor’s degree, you’re probably about 4 years away from becoming a licensed teacher in Maryland.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, even if it’s not in education, you could earn your license much faster through an alternative or graduate-level EPP. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, for example, can be completed in just 9 months.

Steps to Becoming a Special Education Teacher in Maryland

Here’s an example of the steps you might take to earn your special education teaching license in Maryland:

• Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree. Again, this degree does not have to be in education. Maryland welcomes career changers with diverse backgrounds and experience.
• Step 2: Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP). There are in-person and online options. Some programs last a couple years while others are faster. Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program can be completed in 9 months.
• Step 3: Pass the Maryland licensure assessments. In special education, Maryland has teaching licenses for infant/primary, elementary, secondary, deaf and hard of hearing students, severe and profoundly disabled students, and the blind/visually impaired. Your specific licensure exams will vary depending on what group(s) you want to work with. As an example, you might take the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators test, the Special Education: Foundational Knowledge test, the edTPA, and a reading instruction test.
• Step 4: Complete a background check.
• Step 5: Apply for your license.

Again, this is just one example of a potential path. For more detailed information, visit the Maryland State Department of Education website.

How to Choose Your EPP

One of the biggest steps to earning your teaching license is completing an Educator Preparation Program (EPP). You want to make sure you choose a program that a) will prepare you well for your teaching career and b) meets your needs as far as flexibility, structure, and time commitment.

Here are a few questions to consider as you evaluate programs:

1. Is the program in-person or online, and which would you prefer?
2. How long is the program?
3. What’s the weekly time commitment?
4. How flexible is the program? Is there a set class schedule, or can you complete work on your own time?
5. How much is tuition?
6. How large are the classes? Will you get the 1:1 support and attention you need?

If you need some help, download The Teacher’s Guide to Finding Your Right-Fit Educator Preparation Program. You’ll learn 10 factors to consider to find the best program for you.

Can You Become a Special Education Teacher in Maryland Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes, you can absolutely become a special education teacher in Maryland without a traditional teaching degree. Career changers with diverse educational and work backgrounds are a big part of Maryland’s solution to the teacher shortage, and you’ll likely find that many of your skills transfer directly to the classroom.

You could even start teaching in Maryland with a conditional license while you’re completing your Educator Preparation Program (EPP). If you’re eager to launch your new career, eager to start making a difference in student lives, this allows you to get started right away.

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Ready to make your move? Earn your Maryland teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW program is 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.

Apply for free, and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.

Questions? Click here to book a 1:1 chat with our team.