Frequently Asked Questions
Our Mission
The mission of the University of Maryland Terrapin Teachers program is to engage science and mathematics students in the teaching and learning process so that they are prepared by the end of their four undergraduate years to be highly skilled middle and secondary science and mathematics school teachers who can go on to teach and inspire their students, and enable them to not only know about science and math, but to use these disciplines in their everyday lives.
Terrapin Teachers Partners
Our local school district partners are so important and are an integral part of the success of the program. Local public school teachers work closely with our undergraduates to develop inquiry-based lessons in science and math. Teachers provide constructive feedback to help undergraduates build upon their knowledge base.
Montgomery County Public Schools
Prince George's County Public Schools
Q. What is the Terrapin Teachers Initiative?
A. Terrapin Teachers (TT) is an innovative STEM certification pathway that prepares highly qualified middle and high school STEM teachers. The Initiative is a collaboration between the College of Education and the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences.
Q. Can I graduate with a degree in science or mathematics and be prepared to go into a science or mathematics profession if I decide not to pursue a teaching career?
A. If you are seeking middle school math and science certification, you do not have to major in a STEM content area. You will graduate with the MSMS degree (not required to have a STEM major) and eligibility for certification (provided by the Maryland State Department of Education; MSDE). For students seeking secondary education certification, you are prepared for any STEM-related career (e.g., pre-med, math professor, pursuing a Ph.D.). However, being part of Terrapin Teachers gives you the added options afforded by having teacher certification. Thus, graduates from Terrapin Teachers have options to pursue a rewarding and exciting career in teaching that has a major impact on society and the future. Moreover, by taking Terrapin Teacher courses, you will be very well trained to be an effective communicator and teacher, which is extremely useful no matter your career.
Q. How/Where do I start the Terrapin Teachers Initiative?
A. The first course in Terrapin Teachers is the 1-credit course TLPL101 (Step 1). This course immerses you in teaching by allowing you to actually teach. Over the course of the semester, you will develop and teach one science or math lesson in a local elementary school under the guidance of our Master Teachers. You would then take TLPL102 (Step 2), which adds to your knowledge and skill sets and allows you to develop and teach a science or math lesson in a local middle school.
Q. I am an upper-level student. Can I complete the program by the time I would normally graduate?
A. Terrapin Teachers has multiple entry points for students of different levels. Depending on the number of credit hours you have completed, you may begin taking Terrapin Teachers courses as an undergraduate and complete certification through the Integrated Master’s Certification Program (IMCP) certification pathway. We are glad to provide guidance. If you have an immediate question, please contact an advisor at tt@umd.edu.
Q. Are there restrictions on registering for the courses under the Terrapin Teachers Initiative?
A. There are currently no administrative or advisor restrictions for TLPL101 (Step 1). Upper-level courses, however, are likely to have prerequisites. Please refer to the undergraduate pathway for more information.
Q. I am a freshman. How does the Terrapin Teachers Initiative affect my four-year plan?
A. TT is designed to fit into your STEM content major four-year plan. As always, consult your advisor for a personalized schedule.
Q. How do I know if I will make a good math or science teacher?
A. First, having the proper knowledge of a subject is very important. Good teachers have passion and can create a positive learning environment for their students. Second, being prepared by an outstanding Initiative that helps you become an expert at teaching and working with students increases your skill level. Terrapin Teachers graduates will be prepared well in their STEM areas and teaching.
Q. Are there jobs for new math and science teachers?
A. Absolutely! There is a very substantial need for teachers in Maryland and nationwide. This is particularly the case for science and math teachers who are truly grounded in their disciplines and can effectively communicate subject material and inspire discovery. This is a national crisis that our country is facing. For more information, visit http://nms.org.
Q. What are the salary ranges and benefits for math and science teachers?
A. The 2026 Maryland starting average for public school teachers will be $60,000 for ten months. School districts also provide additional benefits such as health, retirement, etc.
Q. What are the steps to earning a teaching credential and becoming a middle or high school teacher in Maryland?
A. Once you have completed the Terrapin Teachers pathway, you will be “Certification Ready.” That means you will be eligible for certification and can apply for your teaching certificate through the MSDE.
Q. What major do I choose, and what undergraduate courses can I take at UMD to prepare for a teaching career?
A. We recommend choosing a major that interests you, as this will be your content area. The Terrapin Teachers Initiative has nine inquiry-based instruction courses that will provide you with the knowledge and understanding of teaching. Many of these courses will fit your major and/or general education requirements, so for most students, these will easily fit into the regular four-year curriculum you would take even if you were not in Terrapin Teachers.
Q. How is Terrapin Teachers unique?
A. We are unique in preparing a diverse corps of STEM teachers committed and equipped to advance opportunities for all children to authentically engage in STEM inquiry through responsive, culturally sustaining, and social change pedagogies.
Q. When, how often, and in what kinds of classrooms will I be teaching?
A. In TLPL101, you will teach in elementary school; in TLPL 102, you can teach in a middle school. You will have secondary school (high school) placements in later courses. You will also have a year-long apprenticeship placement in a high school in your final year.
Q. What support will I have when I go into the classroom?
A. You will not be alone! For example, in TLPL 101 & 102, you are paired with one or two classmates to co-teach the lessons. In addition, you will have guidance from a collaborating teacher—the person in the classroom in which you will be working. For the year-long internship, you will be supported by the mentor teacher, a university supervisor, and a professional development school coordinator.
Q. Will I also be doing “student teaching” at the end of the program?
A. Yes. Part of the certification pathway is your two-semester apprenticeship in a high school. Virtually all states require some kind of “student teaching” experience to become a teacher.
Q. I am really interested in taking the Step 1 course; however, the classes are already full. What should I do?
A. Contact the Terrapin Teachers Staff by emailing tt@umd.edu or at (301) 405-0645. We can assist you with most scheduling conflicts. Additionally, Step 1 is offered in both spring and fall semesters.
Q. What is the next step after the Step 2 (TLPL102) class?
A. The next course would be TLPL414, Knowing & Learning. Some upper-level courses will be focused on your content major and its application in the classroom.
Q. After I take the Step courses, am I obligated to complete the rest of the program?
A. We encourage you to stay within the certification pathway; however, there is no obligation or penalty for withdrawing from the Terrapin Teachers Initiative. If you are having scheduling concerns, contact Terrapin Teachers via email (tt@umd.edu) or by phone (301) 405-0645