Meta Title: How to Become a Teacher in Maryland Without a Teaching Degree
Meta Description: Learn how to become a teacher in Maryland without a teaching degree. Explore alternative certification pathways, requirements, Praxis exams, costs, and licensing steps.
How to Become a Teacher in Maryland Without a Teaching Degree
Can You Teach in Maryland Without a Teaching Degree? Yes, if you hold a bachelor’s degree in any field other than education. Maryland offers multiple well-structured alternative certification pathways specifically designed for career changers and recent graduates who possess a bachelor’s degree but lack a traditional teacher education background.
Maryland’s alternative certification system is one of the most active in the nation: in 2021-22, the state had 1,616 unfilled teaching positions and 6,724 teachers considered underqualified or working outside their certification field — creating persistent demand for qualified career changers willing to enter the profession through non-traditional routes.
The single most important thing to understand: Maryland requires at least a bachelor’s degree for all teacher certification pathways, without exception. If you do not yet hold a bachelor’s degree, none of Maryland’s alternative certification pathways are available to you.
However, if you hold a bachelor’s degree in any accredited field — engineering, history, biology, nursing, business, languages, or anything else — Maryland’s alternative routes can put you in a classroom as quickly as your first school year.
This guide covers every alternative pathway available in 2025: the Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Program (MAAPP) and Resident Teacher Certificate (RTC), the Conditional License, post-baccalaureate ACP programs, career changer university programs, Professional and Technical Education certification, and Special Education alternative routes.
All data is drawn from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), COMAR 13A.12, the MSDE MAAPP Directory, and individual program sources across the state.
| Quick Answer: How to Become a Maryland Teacher Without an Education Degree |
| STEP 1: Hold a bachelor’s degree (any field) from an accredited institution — REQUIRED for ALL pathways. |
| STEP 2: Choose your pathway: |
| Path A (MAAPP/RTC): Apply to a Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Program jointly run by a school district and university. Receive a Resident Teacher Certificate (RTC) and teach while completing coursework. Most flexible; teaches while earning certification; school system may cover costs. |
| Path B (Conditional License): Be hired by a Maryland school system that requests a Conditional License on your behalf when no certified teacher is available. Valid 2 years. Rare. |
| Path C (Post-Baccalaureate ACP): Complete an approved post-baccalaureate Alternative Certification Program through a Maryland university or community college. Structured preparation before entering the classroom. |
| Path D (PTE): Have 3 years of professional experience in a technical field — qualify for Professional and Technical Education certification without a teaching degree. |
| STEP 3: Pass required assessments (Praxis Core or 3.0 GPA; Content Praxis II; edTPA or PPAT from July 2025). |
| STEP 4: Apply through the TEACH portal (marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH). |
| Sources: MSDE MAAPP Directory; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026); research.com MD 2026; teachercertification.com MD 2026. |
Maryland Teaching Without a Traditional Education Degree: Key Numbers
| BA Req.
Min. Degree for All Pathways MSDE: bachelor’s degree required |
3 yrs
RTC Certificate Validity Montgomery Co.; non-renewable |
2 yrs
Conditional License Duration MSDE; school system request only |
1,616
Unfilled Teaching Positions Maryland 2021-22 (MSDE/NCES data) |
| 6,724
Underqualified Teachers (2021-22) MSDE/NCES; alternative cert demand |
July 2025
edTPA/PPAT Required New pedagogy assessment mandate |
$74,260
Avg. MD Teacher Salary (2024-25) NEA 2025; MD ranks 9th nationally |
~20
Approved MAAPP Programs MSDE MAAPP Directory (statewide) |
Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com Maryland Alternative (Jan 2026) — 1,616 unfilled / 6,724 underqualified; teachercertificationdegrees.com Maryland (March 2026) — Conditional License 2 years; Montgomery County RTC page — 3 years; research.com Maryland 2026 — July 2025 edTPA/PPAT mandate; NEA 2025 Rankings — $74,260 avg salary / 9th nationally; MSDE MAAPP Directory — ~20 approved programs.
Who Governs Teacher Certification in Maryland: MSDE Overview
All teacher certification in Maryland is administered by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Division of Educator Effectiveness — specifically the Division of Educator Certification and Program Approval. The MSDE sets certification standards, approves preparation programs, oversees the MAAPP directory, and processes all certification applications through the TEACH portal.
- MSDE Division of Educator Certification: marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/index.aspx
- TEACH Portal (applications): marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH
- MAAPP Coordinator: 410-767-5654
- MSDE Certification email: [email protected]
- Legal framework: Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 13A, Subtitle 12 — Education Personnel
- MSDE Educator Licensure page: Provides pathways to licensure, license types, license areas, and FAQs (marylandpublicschools.org)
Sources: teaching-certification.com MD alternative; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026); MSDE marylandpublicschools.org.
The Bachelor’s Degree Requirement — and Why Maryland Has No Degree-Free Path
Maryland’s MSDE requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree for all teacher certification. Per the MSDE, COMAR 13A.12, and all alternative certification frameworks: ‘All prospective teachers in the state must have at least a bachelor’s degree.’
There is no equivalent to Kentucky’s CTE Pathway 5 (high school diploma + occupational experience) or Maine’s CTE Pathway 5 (same). Maryland’s Professional and Technical Education (PTE) certification requires 3 years of professional experience but still requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
This requirement reflects Maryland’s historically high educational standards — Maryland has consistently ranked in the top tier of states for public education quality. The result is that all alternative pathways described in this guide require candidates to already hold a bachelor’s degree.
The question is not whether you need a degree, but which alternative pathway best matches your existing degree, experience, timeline, and desired teaching area.
Sources: teachercertification.com MD (2026); teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026); MSDE MAAPP Directory.
All Alternative Pathways to Maryland Certification
| Pathway | Best For | Entry Requirement | Teaching Authority | Timeline | Certificate Issued |
| MAAPP/RTC | Career changers hired by a Maryland school system; most flexible | BA degree + content knowledge; selected by school system | YES — teacher of record from start while in program | 2-3 years while teaching | RTC (2-3 yrs) then SPC I (Standard Professional Certificate I) or IPL |
| Conditional License (CL) | Individuals hired when no certified teacher found | BA degree; school system must request it from MSDE | YES — teacher of record | 2 years; not renewable | CL (2 yrs) then must meet full requirements |
| Post-Bacc ACP (university/college programs) | Career changers completing formal prep before teaching | BA degree; program admission | Usually student teaching; may secure position during | 1-2 years to complete program | SPC I or IPL upon program completion |
| Professional and Technical Education (PTE) | Professionals with 3+ years of hands-on technical experience | BA degree + 3 years professional experience in the field | YES (after certification) | Application-based; typically faster than full program | SPC I with PTE endorsement |
| Special Education MAAPP | Career changers entering SpEd | BA degree; SpEd MAAPP acceptance | YES — as SpEd teacher while completing 30 credit hours | 2-3 year residency while teaching | RTC then SPC I in Special Education |
Sources: MSDE MAAPP Directory (marylandpublicschools.org); teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026); teachercertification.com MD (2026); AACPS RTC page (aacps.org); AACPS.org alternative licensure programs; Montgomery County RTC page; research.com MD 2026.
Pathway 1: Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Programs (MAAPP/RTC)
The MAAPP/RTC pathway is Maryland’s primary alternative certification mechanism and by far the most important pathway for career changers without an education background.
It is a joint program between a Maryland local school system (LSS) and a partnering college or university — administered together, funded partly by the school system, and designed to have you teaching in a real classroom from day one.
Key source: MSDE MAAPP Directory (marylandpublicschools.org/about/Documents/DEE/ProgramApproval/MAAPP/Alternative-Preparation-Program-Directory-A.pdf).
What the MAAPP/RTC Is
Per LangCred: ‘Alternative preparation programs in Maryland (or Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Programs (MAAPP)) differ from traditional programs in that alternative preparation leads to teacher certification, but not necessarily to a degree. MAAPPs allow one to begin teaching and receiving a salary much earlier than with traditional routes.’
The Resident Teacher Certificate (RTC) is the certificate granted to candidates enrolled in a MAAPP. It is issued at the request of a local school superintendent to individuals who have been selected to participate in the program.
Key RTC Features
- Validity: 2 years (per LangCred and learn.org) in most programs; 3 years in some programs (per Montgomery County RTC page)
- Not portable: ‘The RTC is valid only for two years and is not transferable to other states or other local school systems in Maryland’ (learn.org). You can only teach in schools under the local school system that sponsors the MAAPP.
- Not renewable: ‘This certificate cannot be renewed’ (Montgomery County Schools RTC page). You must complete the MAAPP and transition to the SPC I before the RTC expires.
- School system sponsorship: The school system typically covers much of the MAAPP cost — a significant financial advantage over university-only programs
- Jointly administered: Every MAAPP is run jointly by a local school system AND a college or university — combining workplace training with academic preparation
Sources: LangCred MAAPP entry (langcred.org); learn.org Resident Teacher Certificate Programs in Maryland (Nov 2025); Montgomery County Schools RTC page (montgomeryschoolsmd.org); MSDE MAAPP Directory.
RTC Eligibility Requirements
To be selected for a MAAPP and receive an RTC, candidates typically must meet:
| MAAPP/RTC Eligibility — What You Need to Qualify |
| DEGREE: At least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Some programs require the degree to be in or closely related to the content area you wish to teach. |
| BASIC SKILLS: Either a 3.0 GPA or higher on your most recently earned degree OR a passing score on the Praxis Core (basic skills test). (Per AACPS RTC page and Notre Dame of Maryland RTC sheet.) |
| CONTENT KNOWLEDGE: Passing score on the Praxis II Content Knowledge test for your desired teaching area. (Per Notre Dame AACPS RTC sheet: ‘Praxis II content test is also required.’) |
| SELECTION BY SCHOOL SYSTEM: The local school system must select you for their MAAPP — the RTC is ‘issued at the request of a local school superintendent’ (Montgomery County). You cannot apply for an RTC independently. |
| CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: Required once hired by a Maryland school system. |
| ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Vary by program; some programs specify GRE or subject GPA requirements in addition to Praxis. |
| Sources: AACPS Resident Teacher Program page (aacps.org); Notre Dame of Maryland AACPS RTC Information Sheet (AACPS 2025-2027 RT Info Sheet PDF); teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026). |
What Happens After the RTC: Path to Standard Professional Certificate
The RTC is a bridge credential — its purpose is to allow you to teach while completing certification requirements. To transition from the RTC to the Standard Professional Certificate I (SPC I) or Initial Professional License (IPL), you must:
- Complete all required coursework through the MAAPP (including any required reading coursework)
- Complete one year of full-time satisfactory professional teaching experience
- Pass all required Praxis II examinations for your certification area
- Pass the required reading instruction assessment (if applicable to your endorsement)
- Complete the edTPA or PPAT pedagogy assessment (from July 2025 — see Section 14)
- Receive a recommendation from your school principal
- Have your superintendent submit a request to MSDE for the transition from RTC to SPC I
Sources: Montgomery County Schools RTC page (montgomeryschoolsmd.org) — ‘Complete all coursework… Complete one year of full-time satisfactory professional teaching experience’; teaching-certification.com MD alternative — superintendent transition request.
How the RTC Works: The Three-Phase Process
The MAAPP/RTC process follows a structured three-phase model that applies across most programs, though specific details vary by program and school system.
Phase 1: Pre-Service Internship
Before receiving the full RTC and beginning as a teacher of record, all MAAPP programs require a pre-service internship. Per teaching-certification.com: ‘All MAAPP programs will require you to participate in an internship through local school system that supports the respective program. Internships may last from four to eight weeks, dependent upon your school system’s requirements.’
During the internship, you observe and teach under a mentor teacher, typically at the school system where you will eventually work. After completing the internship, your superintendent recommends you for the RTC.
Phase 2: Resident Teacher Period (The RTC Year)
Once you receive the RTC, you are employed as a full-time teacher in the school system, teaching your assigned content area and grade level. Simultaneously, you:
- Complete required coursework through the partnering college or university
- Attend required seminars and professional development
- Receive ongoing mentoring from an assigned mentor teacher
- Complete fieldwork components as required by the program
- Build toward passing required Praxis assessments (if not already passed)
- Work on edTPA or PPAT portfolio (from July 2025)
You are compensated as a regular teacher throughout this period, per the school system’s salary schedule. This is one of the most financially attractive features of the MAAPP pathway compared to traditional student teacher programs.
Phase 3: Transition to Standard Professional Certificate
Upon completing all program requirements and receiving satisfactory evaluations from your principal and superintendent, you transition from the RTC to the Standard Professional Certificate I (SPC I) or Initial Professional License (IPL). With the SPC I, you can teach in any Maryland school system, and the certificate is portable to other states (unlike the RTC).
✔ Why MAAPP Is Often the Best Path: Unlike most alternative certification routes nationally, Maryland’s MAAPP pays you a teacher’s salary from nearly day one, often has program costs covered or heavily subsidized by the school system, and pairs formal coursework with real classroom experience. For career changers who need to maintain income during the transition, this is a significant advantage.
MAAPP Programs Across Maryland: Key Providers
MSDE approves MAAPPs across Maryland’s 24 local school systems. The full list is available in the MSDE Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Programs Directory at marylandpublicschools.org. Programs undergo state peer review on a five-year cycle. Below are key programs by school system:
| School System | MAAPP Program | University Partner | Content Areas |
| Anne Arundel County (AACPS) | AACC/AACPS Secondary RTC Program | Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) | Secondary education, multiple content areas |
| Anne Arundel County (AACPS) | RTC Special Education and Elementary/Secondary | Notre Dame of Maryland University | Special Education + Elementary or Secondary |
| Baltimore City (BCPS) | Bard-City Schools MAAPP (Bard) | Bard College (through Bard MAT) | Humanities and sciences secondary |
| Baltimore City (BCPS) | Various BCPS MAAPPs | Multiple partners | Multiple content areas; contact BCPS HR |
| Montgomery County (MCPS) | MCPS RTC Program (multiple) | Various university partners | Elementary, Secondary, Special Education |
| Montgomery College (ACET) | Alternative Certification for Effective Teachers | Montgomery College | Multiple content areas; community college-based |
| Prince George’s County (PGCPS) | RTC Special Education and Elementary/Secondary | Notre Dame of Maryland University | Special Education + Elementary or Secondary |
| Prince George’s County (PGCPS) | PGCPS Resident Teacher Program | Various partners | Multiple content areas |
| Howard County | HCPSS Resident Teacher Program | Various partners | Multiple content areas |
| Statewide | Various programs; contact MSDE for full list | Multiple | Contact MSDE MAAPP Coordinator: 410-767-5654 |
Sources: MSDE MAAPP Directory (marylandpublicschools.org/about/Documents/DEE/ProgramApproval/MAAPP/Alternative-Preparation-Program-Directory-A.pdf); learn.org Resident Teacher Programs MD (Nov 2025); AACPS alternative licensure programs (aacps.org); Montgomery College ACET program (montgomerycollege.edu).
Montgomery College ACET — A Notable Community College Program
Montgomery College’s Alternative Certification for Effective Teachers (ACET) program represents a distinctive model: a community college-based alternative certification program that provides a clear, efficient pathway into teaching.
Per the program: ‘Upon successful completion of the residency year, you’ll earn the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Standard Professional Certificate I — Maryland’s initial teaching license — opening the door to a rewarding career in education.’
ACET Entry Requirements: 3.0+ GPA in last degree earned OR passing the Basic Skills Test (Praxis Core) AND passing the specified Content Knowledge Test (Praxis II) for the teaching area. The program is not currently accepting applications for Fall 2026 (deadline was March 15, 2026); applications for Fall 2027 will open in Fall 2026.
Source: Montgomery College ACET program page (montgomerycollege.edu/academics/liberal-arts-and-education/school-of-education/alternative-certification-effective-teachers.html).
Pathway 2: The Conditional License (CL/COND)
The Conditional License is the most restrictive and least commonly used alternative pathway in Maryland. Unlike the MAAPP/RTC (which is widely available through a network of school system programs), the Conditional License is a true emergency measure issued only when a qualified certified teacher cannot be found for an open position.
| Conditional License (CL) — Key Features |
| ISSUED BY: MSDE at the request of a local school system — candidates cannot apply independently. |
| WHEN: Only when a certified teacher cannot be found for an open position (‘requests are typically made when a certified teacher cannot be found for an open position’ — teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative). |
| REQUIREMENT: Bachelor’s degree. The candidate ‘has yet to meet the full requirements for professional teacher certification’ but has been employed by the school system. |
| DURATION: Valid for two years. Cannot be renewed. |
| EMPLOYER ROLE: School system initiates the request, employs the candidate, and supports them toward full certification. |
| ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION: Holders must be actively pursuing full certification — this is not a permanent solution. |
| PORTABILITY: Like the RTC, the Conditional License is not portable to other Maryland school systems or other states. |
| Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026) — ‘issued at the request of a local school systems’; teachercertification.com MD (2026); research.com MD 2026. |
⚠ Who This Is For: The Conditional License is not a pathway you pursue proactively — it is issued to you by the school system when they cannot find anyone else for the position. If you are hired by a Maryland school system and they determine you need a Conditional License, they will initiate the process. You should be simultaneously pursuing MAAPP enrollment or a post-baccalaureate ACP program during the 2-year conditional period.
Pathway 3: The Alternative Certification Program (ACP) — Post-Baccalaureate Route
Beyond the MAAPP/RTC framework, many Maryland colleges and universities offer Alternative Certification Programs (ACPs) as post-baccalaureate programs for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field. These programs are designed to complete the pedagogical preparation requirements for Maryland teacher certification.
How Post-Baccalaureate ACPs Differ from MAAPP
- MAAPP: Joint school system + university program; paid teaching from near day one; school system typically covers costs; RTC issued while in program
- Post-Baccalaureate ACP: University-only program; typically involves student teaching (unpaid or stipended); candidate pays tuition; may not have a school system position until program completion; more structured academic preparation
Both paths lead to the same destination: Standard Professional Certificate I (SPC I) or Initial Professional License (IPL).
ACP Programs at Maryland Institutions
Many Maryland institutions offer post-baccalaureate teacher education programs for career changers, including:
- Johns Hopkins University — MAT program (Master of Arts in Teaching) with multiple content areas
- University of Maryland College Park — multiple certification programs for career changers
- Towson University — post-baccalaureate certification programs
- Morgan State University — teacher preparation programs for diverse content areas
- Baltimore City Community College (BCCC) — Maryland Teacher Certification Pathway (non-degree, non-certificate; MSDE recognizes courses taken at BCCC as meeting state certification requirements)
BCCC’s program is notably described: ‘The Maryland Teacher Certification Pathway is a nondegree, non-certificate conferring course of study. It is offered through Baltimore City Community College to individuals who already possess a bachelor’s degree and are interested in meeting Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) teacher certification requirements. MSDE recognizes courses taken at Baltimore City Community College as meeting state certification requirements.’
Sources: bccc.edu/academics/degrees-certificates-career-pathways/maryland-teacher-certification-pathway (BCCC); teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026); MSDE approved programs list.
Pathway 4: Career Changer University-Based Programs
Maryland’s major research universities and smaller colleges all offer pathways specifically designed for career changers who want to become teachers. These programs go beyond post-baccalaureate certification coursework to offer structured preparation, mentored field experiences, and in many cases master’s degrees.
- MAT Programs (Master of Arts in Teaching): Available at Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland, Towson, and other institutions. Full master’s degree + Maryland certification in one program. Typically 15-24 months of intensive study. Strong preparation but significant time and financial investment.
- MAT-lite Programs: Some universities offer certification without a full master’s degree for candidates who already have significant content knowledge (e.g., through an existing advanced degree).
- Online options: Several Maryland-approved programs offer partially or fully online delivery for working professionals. Verify MSDE approval before enrolling in any online program.
For the full list of MSDE-approved teacher preparation programs, visit: marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/index.aspx
Pathway 5: Professional and Technical Education (PTE) Certification
Maryland’s Professional and Technical Education (PTE) certification pathway is specifically designed for professionals who want to teach career and technical education subjects in Maryland public schools, bringing real-world professional experience to the classroom. This is the only Maryland pathway that can significantly reduce academic preparation requirements based on work experience.
Who Qualifies for PTE Certification
Candidates for PTE certification must have:
Bachelor’s degree: Required in a relevant professional field
- Professional experience: At least 3 years of full-time professional experience in the occupational field to be taught
- Professional license or credential: Where applicable in the occupation (e.g., licensed electrician, registered nurse, licensed engineer)
- Content knowledge: Demonstrated proficiency in the content area through the professional background
PTE Assessment Special Rule
Per research.com Maryland 2026: ‘Professional and Technical Education candidates without a bachelor’s degree are exempt from the basic skills test, though degree holders must comply with all requirements.’ Note: This suggests that in some narrow PTE circumstances, there may be exceptions to the bachelor’s degree requirement for the basic skills test — contact MSDE directly to verify current rules for your specific situation, as this may be a documentation of an older provision.
For most PTE candidates with bachelor’s degrees: the Praxis Core basic skills test is required unless they hold a 3.0+ GPA on their most recently earned degree. PTE-specific content assessments apply instead of standard academic Praxis Subject Assessments in many cases.
Sources: research.com MD 2026; MSDE PTE certification guidelines; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026).
PTE Content Areas in Maryland
Maryland’s PTE certification covers a broad range of Career and Technical Education areas, including: Agricultural Education; Business and Information Technology; Construction and Development; Engineering; Environmental/Natural Resources; Health Occupations; Marketing; Technology Education; Trade and Industrial Education; and JROTC. Contact the MSDE or your local school system’s Career and Technical Education division for the specific content area list and entry requirements.
Special Education Alternative Certification
Special Education is one of Maryland’s most acute shortage areas, and the state has developed specific MAAPP pathways focused on helping career changers enter special education teaching.
SpEd MAAPP Programs
Several MAAPPs specifically target Special Education, including:
- AACPS/Notre Dame RTC — Special Education: 30 graduate credits through Notre Dame of Maryland University; candidates are hired in special education teaching positions; SpEd-specific Praxis tests required (Praxis Special Education 5354, TRE Assessment 5205 among others); upon completion, candidates earn Maryland SPC I in Special Education plus another content area.
- PGCPS RTC — Special Education and Elementary/Secondary: Prince George’s County Schools program offering RTC in SpEd with secondary content area.
- Montgomery County MCPS — SpEd MAAPP: Various SpEd-focused alternative preparation options.
The Notre Dame/AACPS RT/MAAPP SpEd Cohort Information Sheet (AACPS 2025-2027) provides specific details: ‘RT/MAAPP cohort members will be hired in special education teaching positions for the 2025-2026 school year if all pre-service requirements have been met… Upon successful completion of the RT/MAAPP Special Education program, and successful passing of Praxis TRE Assessment 5205, Special Education Praxis 5354, and completion of edTPA Assessment, completers are eligible for the Maryland State Department of Education Standard Professional Certificate (SPC) in Special Education and another content area.’
Sources: Notre Dame of Maryland/AACPS RT MAAPP SpEd Info Sheet (AACPS files backend, 2025-2027); learn.org MD RTC programs; MSDE MAAPP Directory.
Required Assessments: Praxis Core, Content Tests, and the New edTPA/PPAT
All Maryland alternative certification candidates must pass specific assessments before receiving their Standard Professional Certificate. The assessment requirements are the same for alternative and traditional route candidates (with the PTE exemption noted above).
Basic Skills Assessment
Candidates must demonstrate basic academic skills in one of two ways:
- Option 1 — Praxis Core: Pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Reading, Writing, Mathematics)
- Option 2 — GPA: Hold a 3.0 or higher GPA on the most recently earned degree — exempts from Praxis Core
Content Knowledge Test (Praxis II)
All candidates must pass the Praxis II Subject Assessment relevant to their certification area. These tests assess deep knowledge of the subject matter to be taught. Examples include:
- Elementary Education — Praxis 5001 (Content Knowledge for Teaching: Multi-Subject), 5002 (Reading Language Arts), 5003 (Mathematics), 5004 (Science and Social Studies)
- Secondary Mathematics — Praxis 5161 (Mathematics: Content Knowledge)
- Secondary Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) — appropriate Praxis content test
- Special Education — Praxis 5354 (Special Education: Core Knowledge and Mild to Moderate Applications), TRE Assessment 5205
The full list of required tests for each Maryland content area is available at the MSDE Licensure Assessments page (marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/Assessments.aspx).
Reading Instruction Assessment
Per research.com MD 2026: ‘For those pursuing licensure in elementary or special education, an additional assessment in reading instruction is required to verify competence in teaching literacy skills.’ This reflects Maryland’s commitment to evidence-based reading instruction and is consistent with the science of reading movement in K-12 education.
Sources: research.com MD 2026; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026); teachercertification.com MD (2026); MSDE Licensure Assessments page.
The July 2025 Pedagogy Assessment Change
One of the most significant recent changes to Maryland teacher certification requirements took effect July 1, 2025, and affects all alternative certification candidates.
| July 2025 Change: edTPA or PPAT Required for All Pathways |
| BEFORE July 1, 2025: Candidates could fulfill the pedagogy assessment requirement by passing the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam. |
| FROM July 1, 2025 ONWARD: ALL certification candidates — including all alternative route candidates — must successfully complete a performance-based pedagogy assessment regardless of their preparation pathway. |
| Accepted assessments: edTPA (Education Teacher Performance Assessment) OR PPAT (Performance Assessment for Beginning Teachers). |
| What these assess: edTPA and PPAT evaluate actual teaching performance — lesson planning, classroom instruction, and analysis of student learning — rather than testing knowledge through a standardized exam. |
| Timeline note: Candidates who had not yet passed the PLT before July 1, 2025, must use edTPA or PPAT, even if they were enrolled in an alternative program before that date. |
| Impact on MAAPP candidates: All RTC holders must complete edTPA or PPAT as part of their MAAPP completion requirements before transitioning to the SPC I. |
| Sources: research.com MD 2026 — ‘Starting July 1, 2025, all candidates must successfully complete a performance-based pedagogy assessment’; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — ‘Starting in July 2025, the edTPA or PPAT will be required for teacher applicants.’ |
What edTPA and PPAT Involve
- edTPA: A portfolio-based assessment requiring candidates to plan a learning segment, instruct and video-record teaching, and analyze student learning. Submitted to Pearson Education for external scoring. Context-specific to the content area and grade level being assessed.
- PPAT: The ETS Performance Assessment for Beginning Teachers — an alternative portfolio assessment. Similar in structure to edTPA but administered through ETS.
- Registration: Register for edTPA at edtpa.com; register for PPAT at ets.org/ppat
- Fees: Each assessment has associated registration and scoring fees; check current fee schedules at the respective assessment provider websites
Sources: research.com MD 2026; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026); edtpa.com; ets.org/ppat.
Criminal Background Check Requirements
All individuals hired by a Maryland school system — regardless of certification pathway — must submit to a criminal history background check (CHRC). Per teaching-certification.com: ‘Once hired by a Maryland school system, all prospective Maryland teachers must submit to a criminal history background check.’
- Timing: Must be completed before or upon employment; required before regular teaching begins
- Process: Typically initiated through the hiring school system’s HR department; fingerprinting through a Maryland-approved vendor
- Cost: Varies; check with the hiring school system for current fee information
- Ongoing monitoring: Maryland school employees are typically enrolled in ongoing background monitoring after initial clearance
Sources: teaching-certification.com MD alternative (2023); teachercertification.com MD (2026); MSDE certification guidelines.
The TEACH Portal: Maryland’s Application System
All Maryland teacher certification applications — initial, renewal, and upgrades — are processed through the TEACH portal: marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH. The portal replaced the previous paper-based system and is the exclusive channel for all MSDE certification transactions.
How TEACH Works
- Register your account. Create an account at marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH. The TEACH Applicant Guide (available on the MSDE website) provides step-by-step instructions.
- Complete the online application. Select the appropriate certificate type and complete all required fields, including personal information, education history, and employment history.
- Upload required documents. Depending on your pathway, required documents typically include: official transcripts; Praxis/edTPA/PPAT score reports; program completion verification; criminal background check results.
- Submit and pay the fee. A $10 fee is charged by MSDE for issuance of an initial certificate/license and for each renewal (per Montgomery County Schools RTC page). Additional fees may apply for certain document types.
- Track application status. Monitor application status through the TEACH portal. MSDE will communicate via the portal if additional documentation is needed.
Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026); marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH; Montgomery County Schools RTC page — ‘$10 fee’.
High-Demand Teaching Areas and Shortage Data
Understanding where Maryland has the greatest teacher need helps alternative certification candidates make strategic decisions about which content area to pursue.
Maryland Teacher Shortage Areas (2023-24)
According to the U.S. Department of Education Teacher Shortage Area report for 2023-2024, Maryland has identified the following content area shortages (per teachercertificationdegrees.com MD, March 2026):
- Special Education — All levels (K-12)
- Mathematics — Secondary
- Science — Secondary (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Computer Science
- World Languages / Foreign Languages
- English Language Learners (ELL/ESL)
- Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Additionally, per the statewide data: there were 1,616 unfilled teaching positions in Maryland during 2021-22, and 6,724 teachers were considered underqualified for their positions — many assigned outside their certification field. These figures confirm sustained demand for alternative certification candidates, particularly in shortage areas.
Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — shortage areas and vacancy data; U.S. DOE TSA report 2023-24 (tsa.ed.gov).
Maryland Teacher Salary Overview
Understanding Maryland teacher compensation is important context for alternative certification candidates evaluating whether to pursue this career path.
| Metric | Amount | National Ranking | Source |
| Average teacher salary (2024-25) | $74,260 | 9th nationally | NEA 2025 Rankings; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) |
| National average (2024-25) | $72,030 | — | NEA 2025 |
| Average starting salary (est.) | ~$50,000-$54,000 (varies by county) | Above national median | County salary schedules; NEA data |
| Montgomery County (top) | Some of highest salaries in state | Top MD county | MCPS salary schedule; one of highest nationally |
| Baltimore City | Lower starting but rapid step increases | — | BCPS salary schedule |
Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — ‘$74,260 average salary; ranked 9th nationally’; NEA 2025 Rankings and Estimates.
Maryland teachers participate in the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (MSRPS), a defined benefit pension plan. Most teachers also do NOT receive Social Security through their Maryland teaching employment — MSRPS replaces Social Security. Additionally, all Maryland public school teachers employed by school systems (government employers) qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) after 120 qualifying payments.
Financial Aid and Loan Programs for Maryland Teachers
Several financial support programs specifically benefit Maryland teachers in shortage areas — especially relevant for career changers who may carry student loan debt.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): All Maryland public school teachers employed by school systems (government employers) qualify. After 120 qualifying monthly payments under an income-driven repayment plan, the remaining federal loan balance is forgiven tax-free. Enroll on Day 1 at studentaid.gov/pslf.
- Teacher Loan Forgiveness: Up to $17,500 for teachers in Special Education, Mathematics, or Science after 5 consecutive years at a Title I school; $5,000 for other shortage area subjects. Visit studentaid.gov.
- TEACH Grants: Up to $4,000/year for education students committing to teach in shortage areas at low-income schools. Visit studentaid.gov/teach-grant.
- Maryland Stafford Loan Assistance Repayment Program (MD SLARP): State-funded loan repayment assistance for teachers in critical shortage areas in Maryland. Contact Maryland Higher Education Commission.
- Maryland Teacher Scholarship: Scholarship program for students committed to teaching in Maryland. Contact mhec.maryland.gov for current availability and amounts.
- MAAPP Program Costs: Many MAAPP programs are heavily subsidized or fully covered by the sponsoring school system — eliminating or substantially reducing certification program costs for RTC candidates.
Sources: studentaid.gov/pslf; studentaid.gov/teach-grant; mhec.maryland.gov; MSDE MAAPP Directory — program cost information.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Use the following framework to identify the best Maryland alternative certification pathway for your specific situation:
| Your Situation | Best Path | First Step |
| I have a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field and want to start teaching as soon as possible | MAAPP/RTC — teach from day one while completing coursework | Research MAAPP programs in your target school system at marylandpublicschools.org/MAAPP; contact MSDE MAAPP Coordinator (410-767-5654) |
| I have a bachelor’s degree in math, science, or computer science and want to teach secondary | MAAPP/RTC (fastest) OR post-baccalaureate university ACP | Apply to MAAPP programs in target school system; OR enroll in MAT or post-bacc program at Johns Hopkins, UMD, Towson |
| I have 3+ years of professional experience in a technical/vocational field and want to teach CTE | Professional and Technical Education (PTE) certification | Contact MSDE Division of Educator Certification ([email protected]) for PTE-specific requirements in your trade |
| I want to teach special education and have a non-SpEd bachelor’s degree | SpEd MAAPP (AACPS/Notre Dame or PGCPS) | Contact AACPS or PGCPS HR for the specific SpEd RTC/MAAPP program application process |
| I have been hired by a Maryland school system but don’t yet have full certification | Conditional License (CL) — school system will initiate | Work with your school system HR; they will initiate the MSDE Conditional License request; simultaneously apply to a MAAPP or ACP program |
| I want formal academic preparation before teaching | Post-baccalaureate ACP or MAT program | Research MSDE-approved programs at universities; contact admissions at Johns Hopkins MAT, University of Maryland, or Towson University |
| I want to teach in Baltimore City specifically | Bard-City Schools MAAPP (Bard) or BCPS-specific programs | Contact BCPS HR; review BCCS Teacher Certification Pathway for individual courses |
How to Become a Teacher in Maryland Without a Teaching Degree: FAQs
Can I become a teacher in Maryland without any college degree?
No. Maryland requires at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution for all teacher certification pathways, without exception. All five alternative pathways described in this guide (MAAPP/RTC, Conditional License, post-baccalaureate ACP, PTE certification, and Special Education MAAPP) require a bachelor’s degree as the minimum entry requirement. Maryland has no equivalent to the no-degree CTE pathway available in some other states.
What is the MAAPP program and how do I apply?
MAAPP stands for Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Program. These are joint programs between Maryland school systems and partnering colleges/universities that allow career changers to begin teaching while earning certification.
To apply: review the MSDE MAAPP Directory at marylandpublicschools.org; identify a MAAPP in your target school system and content area; contact the program directly (not MSDE — each program has its own application process); apply to the school system’s teaching position associated with the MAAPP; and if selected, the school system and university will coordinate your enrollment. Call the MSDE MAAPP Coordinator at 410-767-5654 for guidance.
How long does it take to become a certified Maryland teacher through an alternative route?
Through the MAAPP/RTC pathway, you receive the Resident Teacher Certificate (allowing you to teach full-time) within weeks of starting the pre-service internship, and you complete the full program in 2-3 years while teaching.
Through a post-baccalaureate ACP or MAT program at a university, most programs take 1-2 years of coursework and student teaching. The MAAPP/RTC pathway is generally the fastest to classroom employment since you begin teaching immediately while completing requirements.
What assessments are required for Maryland alternative certification in 2025?
You need to pass three categories of assessments: (1) Basic skills — either a 3.0 GPA on your most recently earned degree OR passing the Praxis Core; (2) Content knowledge — the Praxis II Subject Assessment for your specific teaching area; and (3) Pedagogy — from July 1, 2025, all candidates must pass either the edTPA or PPAT performance-based assessment (the Praxis PLT is no longer accepted for new candidates). Elementary and special education candidates also need a reading instruction assessment.
Can my professional work experience count toward Maryland teacher certification?
In general, no — Maryland typically does not accept professional work experience as a substitute for required coursework. The exception is Professional and Technical Education (PTE) certification, where 3 years of professional experience in the technical field is a qualifying requirement. CTE and vocational certification specifically recognizes professional expertise. For all other certification areas, coursework requirements must be met through approved programs.
Is the Resident Teacher Certificate (RTC) portable to other school systems or states?
No. The RTC is not transferable to other states or other local school systems in Maryland (learn.org). You can only teach in the school system that sponsors your MAAPP program during the RTC period.
Once you complete the MAAPP and receive your Standard Professional Certificate I (SPC I), that certificate is portable to other Maryland school systems and may be recognized through reciprocity agreements with other states.
What is the salary for alternative route teachers in Maryland?
MAAPP and RTC teachers are paid as regular teachers on the school system’s salary schedule — not at a reduced rate for being in an alternative program. Maryland’s average teacher salary was $74,260 in 2024-25 (NEA 2025), ranking 9th nationally — among the highest in the country.
Starting salaries vary by county, with Montgomery County and other wealthy suburban counties offering some of the highest starting salaries in the nation. Teachers in MAAPP programs receive the same salary and benefits as their fully certified colleagues.
How do I find a MAAPP program in my county?
Review the MSDE Maryland Approved Alternative Preparation Programs Directory at marylandpublicschools.org/about/Documents/DEE/ProgramApproval/MAAPP/Alternative-Preparation-Program-Directory-A.pdf for a complete list of approved programs by school system.
Contact the MSDE MAAPP Coordinator at 410-767-5654 or email [email protected] for guidance on entering a specific program. Individual program contacts are listed in the MAAPP directory.
How to Become a Teacher in Maryland Without a Teaching Degree: Conclusion
Becoming a teacher in Maryland without a traditional teaching degree is not only possible — it is actively supported by a robust system of MSDE-approved alternative pathways that the state has built specifically to address its persistent teacher shortage.
Maryland’s 1,616+ unfilled positions and 6,724 underqualified teachers in 2021-22 underscore the urgency and the opportunity. The state’s above-average compensation ($74,260 average salary; 9th nationally) makes the investment in certification especially worthwhile.
For most career changers, the MAAPP/Resident Teacher Certificate pathway is the most practical and financially attractive route: it gets you into a classroom with full teacher compensation from near day one, pairs structured academic preparation with real teaching experience, and typically has program costs subsidized by the sponsoring school system.
The key is identifying the right MAAPP program in the school system and content area you want to teach, meeting the basic prerequisites (bachelor’s degree, content knowledge, Praxis requirements), and being selected for the program.
The July 2025 shift from the PLT to edTPA/PPAT for pedagogy assessment is the most important recent regulatory change — all candidates enrolling in or completing programs after July 1, 2025 must complete a performance-based assessment. This change raises the bar for classroom readiness but also more meaningfully validates teaching competency than a standardized exam. Plan for this requirement from the beginning of your certification journey.
Start your Maryland alternative certification journey at marylandpublicschools.org, review the MAAPP Directory for programs in your area, and contact the MSDE MAAPP Coordinator at 410-767-5654 for guidance. Maryland’s students and classrooms are waiting.
MSDE | marylandpublicschools.org | [email protected] | TEACH: marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH | MAAPP Coordinator: 410-767-5654 | Data current as of June