You don’t have to wait until college to start your path to teaching
Take college classes early
Get hands-on experience
Save time and money
Take College Classes in High School
Taking college-level classes in high school, often called dual enrollment, lets you start earning college credit early. You can get ahead on college requirements and take your first steps toward teaching courses.
This option might be a great fit for you if:
- You’re already thinking about college and want a head start.
- You’re curious about teaching or education as a career.
- You’re looking for ways to save on tuition.
- You're want to build confidence in your college readiness.
Explore dual enrollment programs in Maryland or learn about college-in-high-school options through the Maryland Association of Community Colleges.
How to Go from High School Student to Licensed Teacher
Here’s what your path to the classroom could look like:
- Talk to your school counselor about ways to earn college credit while you’re still in high school.
- Take college courses if they’re available to you.
- Get involved in education-focused classes, clubs or programs at your school.
- Graduate from high school with a strong academic foundation and some college credit already completed.
- Apply to a teaching program at a college or university.
- Earn your degree and meet Maryland’s requirements for a teaching license.
- Start your career as a teacher!
Did you know?
Research shows that Maryland students who earn college credit in high school are more likely to graduate with a four-year degree and find financial success. (1)
Get Classroom Experience Now
Thinking about exploring teaching more seriously?
Ask your academic counselor about enrolling in the Teacher Academy of Maryland, a Career and Technical Education program that prepares high school students for teaching careers. Gain hands-on experience, build skills and earn industry-recognized certifications.
After completing the program, you may be eligible to receive college credits and scholarships to Maryland teacher preparation programs. Many schools across the state offer the Teacher Academy of Maryland, so it may already be available at your school!
Some pathways offer college scholarships. For example, if you complete the Teacher Academy of Maryland program, you may qualify for scholarships at Loyola Maryland, Notre Dame of Maryland, Towson or Salisbury University!
Common Questions about Starting Early
Need help getting started?
TEACH offers free 1-on-1 and group advising to help you find the right pathway and teaching programs based on your background.
Sign up for access to advising, financial aid, events and more.
References
1. College in High School. Maryland Association of Community Colleges. https://mdacc.org/programs-training/college-in-high-school.
