USM Teach: An Alternative Teacher Preparation Program


Discover Your Pathway
to the Teaching Profession
Teacher reading to students Teacher pointing to chalkboard while students raise their hands Teacher working with student at desk
The USM Launches New Licensure-Only Teacher Education Program
Conditionally-licensed teachers and career changers now have a new accelerated pathway to earn their Initial Professional License (IPL). This fully online program builds on your classroom experience and professional knowledge to help you meet licensure requirements and continue your teaching career in Maryland.

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Self-Paced, Asynchronous, Fully Online Program
  • Ideal for those working full-time as a conditionally-licensed teacher or considering a career change into the teaching profession.
  • Complete this licensure program at your own pace, from the comfort of your home.
Emphasizes Competency-Based Learning and Coaching
  • Builds competencies based on your real world experiences and current practices in the classroom.
  • Additional coaching helps teachers translate learning to their classroom.
  • Learn from education experts at nine USM universities, including R1 research institutions, nationally recognized teacher preparation programs, HBCUs, our global campus, and our flagship university.
Designed to Be Completed in One Year
  • One-year licensure program for $6,250 includes instruction, coaching, and all fees and materials.
  • Students may request additional time beyond the first year.
Learn from the State’s Experts
in Teacher Preparation
The USM’s new licensure-only program unites the education expertise of 9 USM universities into a one-of-a-kind, alternative teacher preparation program. Participants will learn from education faculty across the state, with expertise in areas that include elementary and secondary education, special education, ESOL education, and more. The program will launch in Fall 2026 pending approval by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).
Our consortium includes faculty from 9 USM universities.
Upon completing the licensure-only program, participants may be eligible to “stack” credits and apply them to other education programs offered by universities in the consortium. Acceptance of these credits is determined by each university, and policies may vary by institution and program.
College of Education Bachelor’s, Master’s,
Post-Master’s and Doctoral
College of Arts & Sciences and Education Bachelor’s, Master’s,
and Post-Master’s
Department of Educational Professions Bachelor’s and Master’s
Seidel School of Education Bachelor’s, Master’s,
Post-Master’s and Doctoral
College of Education Bachelor’s, Master’s,
Post-Master’s and Doctoral
Department of Education Bachelor’s, Master’s,
and Post-Master’s Programs
College of Education Bachelor’s, Master’s,
Post-Master’s and Doctoral
Department of Education Bachelor’s, Master’s,
and Post-Master’s
Department of Education and Teaching