The Education History Department

The Department of Education offers a major and certification in elementary education, certification in secondary education for majors in certain other departments, and a major and certification in special education (listed separately in this catalogue). All programs incorporate an extended internship experience lasting over several semesters.

The Education Departments primary purpose is the preparation of teachers for the elementary and secondary schools. Teaching at any of these levels requires three major areas of preparation: (1) thorough knowledge of the subject matter, (2) understanding of the learners, and (3) study of the means whereby knowledge is communicated. The first of these competencies is provided through courses designed to give breadth and depth in the liberal arts while the other two are provided through the courses in education. These last two aim to have each student gain an understanding of the learners’ characteristics, the curriculum, the methods of teaching, the theories of learning and teaching, the relationship between theory and practice, and the school as a social institution.

The Elementary Education Program, Special Education Program, and most areas of the Secondary Education Program have been approved by the Maryland State Department of Education. A student who satisfactorily fulfills the standards of the programs, meets the Maryland State Department of Education’s Essential Dimensions of Teaching, and passes the Praxis I and II tests appropriate to the area of certification is recommended for certification in Maryland. Students eligible for Maryland certification can then receive equivalent or temporary certification in more than 40 states through reciprocity. Although graduation usually occurs within eight semesters, satisfactory completion of certification requirements may require one or more additional semesters. It is important that all students who plan to teach in secondary schools consult the chair of their intended major department, as well as the chair of the Education Department, no later than the spring semester of their sophomore year. Students planning to teach in elementary school should consult the chair of the education department.

Students who wish to be certified to teach outside of Maryland should obtain information about the requirements specified by the state department of education in the desired state. Maryland law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime of violence or a crime against children from being certified to teach.