Middle School Mathematics and Science B.S., Universities at Shady Grove

COMING FALL 2026*

The Middle School Education, Mathematics and Science Area Concentration, Teaching Program (an undergraduate major) is designed to prepare candidates to earn a Bachelor of Science degree and to meet the MSDE requirements for dual certification in mathematics and science in grades 4-9. The program courses are closely aligned with standards set by the State of Maryland and the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE).

This program consists of the last two years of the B.S. degree requirements. Once in the program, students take a set of mathematics and science courses.  The mathematics courses are particularly geared toward middle school teacher candidates.  They include courses in mathematical problem solving, numbers and operations, algebra and geometry, and statistics and probability.  The science component includes physics, chemistry, biology, and atmospheric and geological sciences courses.  All candidates also take education courses in middle-level philosophy and pedagogy, equity and diversity, science and mathematics teaching methods, and adolescent development.

The Middle School Math and Science pathway at USG is available to prospective students from various backgrounds, including current community college STEM majors, high school students, paraprofessionals, and career changers.

USG Location and Class Schedule 

Classes in this program are held in the evenings at the Universities at Shady Grove, an extension campus of the University of Maryland. The Rockville campus location is convenient for students living and working in Montgomery County. Classes are taught by the University of Maryland College Park faculty. Faculty on-site at USG provide advising for students in the program. Students in the program have access to all student services provided at USG.

Prerequisites and Benchmarks* 

Students are advised to take the following prerequisite courses at Montgomery College or another community college before admission to the Middle School Math and Science B.S. program. Students must have a 2.75 GPA to be admitted to the program. In addition to prerequisite courses, all students must pass the Praxis I exam before admission to the program.

*Sample two-year plan. The course names are tentative and subject to change.

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Work Opportunity

While enrolled in the program, students have the opportunity to work as paraeducators in MCPS middle schools. This allows them to earn income while pursuing their degree. Students’ fieldwork and internship will blend with their paraeducator work responsibilities.

*pending approval