Educator Certification Policy | Department of Education

To earn educator certification in Maryland or another state, candidates must complete certain steps at their institution and apply with the appropriate state agency.

UMES discloses that Maryland Teacher Certification Degrees will fulfill educational requirements for professional licenses.

Some state licensing boards require additional requirements beyond education, which may include (but are not limited to) additional post-graduation examinations or experience, application and licensing fees, criminal background checks, reference checks, fingerprint submissions, etc. Continuing education may also be required to maintain certification/licensure.

State licensing requirements are always subject to change at the discretion of the state licensing board. UMES will routinely update this page, but we strongly recommend you inquire with the applicable state board to confirm your eligibility for licensure before enrolling in the Department of Education Teacher Education programs.

Licensing requirements vary by state/territory, and relocating could impact whether you will meet licensure eligibility requirements. If you have any questions about relocation eligibility, contact the agency where you desire licensure before relocating to ensure that you will be eligible for licensure or reciprocity.

Carefully review the educational prerequisites for your intended state/territory of licensure and whether our program meets those requirements. Use the agency contact information provided below to clarify or confirm any requirements.

To become certified in one of UMES’s educator preparation programs, a student must first be officially accepted into the Teacher Education program.