How To Become A Teacher In Maryland
Teaching in Maryland is a desirable option for many reasons. Maryland holds some of the nation’s highest teacher salaries, consistently earns top rankings for providing excellent teaching environments, and offers generous benefit packages to its educators. These reasons and many others make Maryland one of the most highly sought-after states for prospective and current teachers.
If you’re considering teaching in Maryland, you’re in the right spot. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW online teacher preparation program is here to equip you with the best practices and tools you need to become a successful teacher in the state of Maryland.
Benefits of becoming a teacher in Maryland
There are numerous benefits to becoming a teacher in Maryland. Some of these benefits include:
- Retirement and benefit packages
One of the main reasons many teachers choose to teach in Maryland is the excellent benefits packages available to teachers. According to the Maryland State Department of Education, Maryland teachers are eligible for an abundance of benefits including vast healthcare plans, compensation plans, tuition reimbursement, and paid annual, personal, and sick leave.
- High quality teaching environment
One of the most appealing advantages of teaching in Maryland is the top-notch teaching environments it provides. With a strong commitment to education, the state invests significantly in its schools, ensuring that teachers have access to state-of-the-art resources and technology to create dynamic and engaging learning spaces. This commitment to fostering an innovative teaching atmosphere not only enriches the educational experiences of students but also ensures that teachers can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the future of their students.
- Competitive salaries
In 2023, Maryland was named the top paying state in the U.S. for teacher salaries, with an average annual income of $61,500 for educators. This reflects Maryland’s strong commitment to valuing its teachers and offering competitive compensation, which in turn attracts skilled educators to its schools and helps maintain a high standard of education for its students.
How to get a teaching certification in Maryland
For those looking to take advantage of Maryland’s teacher benefits, quality school districts, and competitive salaries, the next step is earning your Maryland teaching certification. Like any state, you must meet all the local requirements and apply for a teaching certification from the state’s department of education website.
The steps to earning teacher certification in Maryland include:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
All teachers in the state of Maryland must earn a bachelor’s degree from a four-year university or a foreign equivalent.
- Complete a teacher preparation program.
If you received your bachelor’s degree in a subject other than education, you will need to complete a teacher preparation program. These programs ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to qualify as a teacher. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW online teacher preparation program prepares candidates to become skilled educators, readying them for Maryland’s classrooms.
- Pass the required exams
Once you have completed the necessary education requirements, you will need to pass the required Praxis exams.
- Complete a Background Check
Like most states, Maryland requires all prospective teachers to pass a background check before they can be certified to teach in the state.
- Apply for Your Teaching License
After you have completed all of Maryland’s teacher certification requirements, you will need to apply for teacher certification with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). You will need to include all necessary documentation, transcripts, exam scores, and proof of completion of a teacher preparation program.
The specific requirements for teacher certification in Maryland may vary based on the type of certification and the grade level or subject area you intend to teach. To find out which requirements are unique to your career path, contact a Moreland admissions counselor: Call us at 1 (844) 283-2246 or email us at admissions@moreland.edu.
Learn more about Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW online teacher preparation program and master’s in education degree programs.
