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Grad students in classroom.

Teaching, M.S.

Earn your Master’s in Teaching and your certification at the same time—from one of the best and most respected education programs in Maryland.

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Degree Types
Master's
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Program Cost
$537 per credit
Key
Format
In Person , Hybrid
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Total credits
35-45

About the Program

McDaniel’s Master of Science in Teaching program, formerly known as Better Educators for Students of Tomorrow (BEST), provides the coursework and experiences necessary for initial certification in:

  • Elementary (Grades 1-6)
  • Secondary (Grades 7-12 including biology, chemistry, English, mathematics, physics, and social studies)
  • Pre-Kindergarten­­–Grade 12 (art, physical education, and Spanish)

"McDaniel's program not only taught me how to be an effective educator but also developed my personal strengths in order to teach students in the most effective manner. The program's professors and mentor teachers are world-class, as they dedicate their time and efforts to bettering your education. I currently teach at an IB/MYP (International Baccalaureate/Middle Years Programme) school where there is a stringent focus on curriculum, instructional methods, and assessment. McDaniel's Education Department pushed me to be ready for such a challenge and I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for McDaniel. I'm honored to call myself an alumnus."

—Jay Eaton M.S. '12

Why McDaniel for Teaching

We’ve designed our program to make sure it meets the needs of today’s aspiring teachers.

  • National Accreditation. McDaniel’s M.S. in Teaching program is nationally accredited. This means the teaching certification you’ll earn is accepted by many PreK-12 employers across the United States.
  • Convenience. Courses offered at times convenient for working adults. Full-time students can obtain a master's degree and initial teacher certification in approximately 2 ½ years.
  • Experience that counts. Extensive classroom experience means you’ll learn effective instructional strategies and behavioral management techniques.

Accreditation

The M.S. in Teaching program in Graduate and Professional Studies was reviewed and accredited by the NCATE (National Council for Accreditation of Teachers) in 2017.  McDaniel College will be reviewed by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) in the next cycle of accreditation in 2024.

What You Need to Know About the M.S. in Teaching

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the program must submit:

  • Application for graduate study
  • Official transcripts verifying completion of an appropriate undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (​​​provisional admittance possible if GPA is lower than 3.0)
  • Satisfactory interview with program coordinator

To begin the program, candidates must:

  • Complete a criminal background record check through fingerprinting and disclosures
  • Complete a program plan developed in consultation with the Program Coordinator

Degree Requirements

  • Minimum 3.00 GPA
  • Earn a C or higher in EDU/RDG courses
  • One-semester full time teaching internship
  • Taking appropriate PRAXIS II assessments and edTPA, beginning July 1, 2025

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Special Opportunities

Student teaching one-on-one in elementary school setting.

Guaranteed Classroom Experience

All students in the M.S. in Teaching program spend significant, meaningful time in real classrooms at area public schools. In addition to honing your skills and gaining invaluable experience, this is also a great opportunity to network with peers and school district administrators to make professional connections.

graduate student reading to a student

Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Pathway Five-Year B.A.Secondary Education/M.S. - Teaching

This 5-year program provides undergraduate teacher candidates with an option to complete an initial teaching certification five year program that also leads to a Master’s degree in Teaching: Secondary Education. Upon completion of four years, a successful candidate will earn a Bachelor’s degree in the major and at the conclusion of the fifth year, a Master’s degree and teacher certification in their respective field of Secondary Education.

Certification and Reputation

McDaniel’s long-established program has been evaluated at the state and national level to ensure you’ll get great value and lasting degree equity. Our program:

  • Is a nationally (NCATE) recognized program. Certificate is reciprocal in 48 states.
  • Meets professional standards and requirements for initial teacher certification established by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).

Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Advancing Your Career

Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll be qualified for one of the following career paths:

  • Certified teacher in Elementary
  • Certified teacher in Secondary Biology, Chemistry, English, Mathematics, Physics, and Social Studies
  • Certified teacher in PreK-12 Art, Music or Physical Education, French, German, and Spanish