St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s Master of Arts in Teaching program has earned initial accreditation from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), marking the first time an SMCM teacher education program has received national accreditation.
The AAQEP Accreditation Commission approved the five-year accreditation at its Aug. 4 meeting after reviewing evidence gathered through an extensive self-study and peer-review process. The commission determined that the program meets all four AAQEP standards, with no concerns or conditions identified. The program must host its next site visit by June 30, 2031.
“This national accreditation affirms the quality and rigor of educator preparation at St. Mary’s College,” said Katherine Gantz, Ph.D., provost and dean of faculty. “It reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff, the strength of our school and community partnerships, and our commitment to preparing skilled, adaptable educators who can meet the evolving needs of Maryland’s students and classrooms.”
The accreditation covers SMCM’s Master of Arts in Teaching program, which prepares graduates to pursue initial Maryland teaching credentials in 18 areas. Those areas include elementary education, special education, science, math, English, history/social studies, world languages, music, art, and theater. It is also the only program in the state to offer a combined elementary and environmental education program, and one of the only to offer licensure in environmental science.
AAQEP’s review found that the program prepares candidates to work effectively as professional educators, adapt to different contexts and continue growing professionally. The commission also cited the College’s consistent monitoring and support of candidates, use of evidence to improve the program, and engagement with partners to strengthen the broader education system.
“Congratulations to St. Mary’s College of Maryland and to all of the faculty, staff and stakeholders who have achieved their goal of national accreditation by AAQEP,” said AAQEP President and CEO Karen Lowenstein, Ph.D. “The program facilitates purposeful continuous improvement through intentional and transparent communication with and regular participation of faculty and staff in these efforts.”
National accreditation provides an independent, evidence-based review of educator preparation programs. AAQEP’s process emphasizes accountability, continuous improvement, innovation and responsiveness to local needs.
The accreditation represents an important milestone for Educational Studies at St. Mary’s College and provides a strong foundation for the College’s continued work to prepare effective educators for Maryland schools and communities. Additional information about the accreditation is available in the College’s AAQEP Accreditation Action Report.
