University of Maryland Extension Programs: A Comprehensive Overview

The University of Maryland Extension (UME) is a vital component of the state's Land Grant System, dedicated to extending research-based knowledge to Maryland citizens. With a presence in every county and Baltimore City, UME employs approximately 200 faculty and 200 support staff and contractual employees, working across diverse fields such as agriculture, family and consumer sciences, 4-H and youth development, and environmental and natural resources. UME educators are deeply embedded in their communities, serving as neighbors and friends who provide valuable educational resources and support.

Master of Extension Education Program

For those seeking advanced training, the University of Maryland offers a Master of Extension Education program with both thesis and non-thesis options. This program is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in extension and outreach roles.

Thesis Option

Students pursuing the thesis option must complete 6 credit hours in AGST 799, "Master’s Thesis Research." The thesis, a significant research undertaking, should be completed near the end of the student's coursework. It requires approval from a Thesis Examining Committee, comprised of three graduate faculty members, with the student’s thesis advisor serving as the chair.

Non-Thesis Option

The non-thesis option requires a minimum of 6 credit hours from courses numbered 600 and above. Instead of a thesis, students must submit either a professional article in publication-ready format or present an individually created research-based creative component (e.g., curricula, professional training design, learning media product) to the Non-Thesis Review Committee. This committee also consists of three graduate faculty members, with the student’s advisor as the chair.

Core Courses

The Master of Extension Education program includes several core courses designed to provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of extension education. These courses include:

AGST606: Program Planning and Evaluation in Agricultural Education: This course focuses on the planning and evaluation of agricultural and extension education programs. Students learn to design and administer needs assessments, create logic models, apply quantitative and qualitative instruments and protocols, engage stakeholders, and gather and analyze data. A key emphasis is placed on addressing inclusion and equity issues in program design and evaluation. Participants develop a program plan tailored to their specific area of interest.
AGST630: Adult and Community Development Education: This course explores teaching and learning theories and techniques applicable to adult continuing and community development education, particularly in nonformal contexts. It examines the curriculum development process and various instructional techniques and methodologies, including in-person, virtual, and remote approaches, tailored to adult learning preferences. Scenarios and examples emphasize participatory approaches to solving community development problems.
AGST605: Extension Research Methods with Applied Data Analysis: This course provides an examination of foundational qualitative and quantitative research methods in real-world social and behavioral settings relevant to extension and outreach educators. Students learn to distinguish, select, and apply research methods to conduct social science research in non-formal education settings. The course also covers a variety of data analysis approaches applicable to Extension and outreach education.
AGST640: Analysis of Maryland Agriculture: This advanced research-focused course examines the mission and history of the Land Grant System and appraises the current work conducted through the University of Maryland Extension to extend research to citizens. Maryland's diverse people, agricultural practices, cultures, and ecosystems provide a rich context for students to examine decision-making processes within and across ecological systems.

Faculty Advisors

The University of Maryland Extension Education program boasts dedicated faculty members committed to advising students. Students are encouraged to connect with faculty whose interests align with their own: Alex Chan, Ph. D and Mentoring.

Read also: History of the Block 'M'

Program Timeline and Course Advising

The program has specific timelines for both thesis and non-thesis options. Students are required to meet with their faculty advisor (Dr. Welsh or Dr. Silvert) each semester to ensure they are on track. After meeting with their advisor, students must submit an updated Plan of Study. Regular communication with advisors is crucial for navigating the program and meeting graduation requirements.

To facilitate registration, students must obtain written confirmation from their advisor indicating clearance to register for the next semester and submit their UID#. An updated Plan of Study is also required if any modifications have been made.

It is recommended that students take one of the AGST core courses (605, 606, 630, 640) during their first semester.

Important Reminders

Students are responsible for keeping track of deadlines and understanding the implications of not meeting them, including potential financial penalties. It is important to carefully review the schedule adjustment period and understand the financial implications of modifying schedules after the first day of classes.

UME's Impact Across Maryland

UME's work extends across various sectors, addressing critical needs and contributing to the well-being of Maryland communities.

Read also: Legacy of Fordham University

Agriculture

UME provides valuable resources and expertise to Maryland's agricultural community. Dr. Joseph Fiola, a viticulture specialist, was recently featured in Hagerstown Magazine for his work on the rise of Maryland's wine industry. UME also offers Succession Coordination Sessions to assist farm families with succession and estate planning.

Family and Consumer Sciences

UME's educators work to improve the health and well-being of families and individuals through programs focused on nutrition, financial literacy, and other essential life skills.

4-H and Youth Development

UME's 4-H program provides young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore their interests, and contribute to their communities. Karli Abbott is joining the ranks of the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees 2025 Young Alumni Advisory Committee. Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, in partnership with Queen Anne's County UME, proudly announced the winners of the 2025 Agriculture Awareness Logo Contest July 3. Congratulations to Ella Harris on her 1st place design!

Environmental and Natural Resources

UME educators work to promote sustainable practices and protect Maryland's natural resources through programs focused on environmental stewardship, conservation, and natural resource management.

Addressing Challenges

UME remains responsive to emerging challenges and actively seeks solutions to address them. For example, WJZ | CBS News Baltimore highlighted UME's SNAP-Ed health and nutrition education program, which faced potential shutdown due to federal budget cuts.

tags: #university #of #maryland #extension #programs