Is a Secondary Education Degree Right for Me?

A bachelor's degree in secondary education can be fitting for aspiring middle school and high school teachers. Various secondary education degree programs are available to support different teaching career goals.

Undergraduate secondary education degrees may be right for you if you have an interest in seeing others academically succeed and want to teach a specific subject. Secondary education teachers guide adolescents toward achieving a high school diploma and entering college. They contribute to a safe space for students to learn and grow.

What Is a Secondary Education Degree?

A secondary education degree is generally a requirement for middle school and high school teachers. Secondary education degree programs are based on grade levels, age groups, and subject area. They may sometimes be offered online.

Accredited institutions award both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees for different secondary education majors. Specific secondary education majors include:

• English
• special education
• social studies

Secondary education programs that lead to earning a teaching license can be right for students interested in teaching adolescents in public schools. Secondary education degrees are essential for earning teacher certifications related to teaching in secondary schools.

What Does a Secondary Education Major Study?

Secondary education majors enhance their academic abilities through college courses in math, language arts, science, and social studies. Coursework also includes lesson planning, student teaching, disciplinary methods, and more.

Actual courses depend on the institution and degree program; however, we name three below to give a general idea.

• Child and adolescent development
• Fundamentals of diverse learners
• Disciplinary literacies in secondary schools

Students who choose to major or concentrate on an academic subject take more courses that align with that particular area of study. For instance, secondary education degree programs in mathematics require courses that cover fractions, numbers, calculus, and the history of mathematics.

Secondary education programs may also include internship requirements and provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience in a professional environment under supervision.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Secondary Education

You should consider a degree in secondary education if it supports your career goals, especially if you have an interest in teaching in public or private schools. Below are more reasons to consider a degree in secondary education.

Career Path

If you want to start or advance your career in teaching, you should consider a degree in secondary education. A secondary education program equips students with the knowledge and skills for professional teaching for various types of schools.

Personal Interests

Students desiring to teach middle or high school can benefit from a secondary education degree program. A degree in secondary education is also suitable for students with an interest in teaching specific subject matters such as:

• a foreign language
• language arts
• mathematics
• science

Prior Experience

A secondary education degree may be right for you if you've had success in working or volunteering at a school. Prior experience can help to shape an individual's career path. Examples of prior experiences may include:

• associate degree in teaching
• coaching or managing
• tutoring experience

Job Opportunities for Secondary Education Degree Majors

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports three job occupations for secondary education degree graduates. Secondary education degree majors can become middle school teachers, high school teachers, or special education teachers.

Job opportunities typically depend on the teacher certification you choose. For instance, a secondary education major might become one of the following:

• English teacher
• math teacher
• science teacher

Other career options for secondary education degree majors include instructional specialists, preschool directors, and private teachers. Graduates of master's degree programs in secondary education have more job opportunities such as principal or counselor. Master's degrees in secondary education are beneficial for:

• elementary education teachers seeking professional growth
• students pursuing an accelerated degree or dual degree program
• secondary education teachers required to earn a master's degree

Secondary Education Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Examining your own personality, skills, and academic achievements can help you determine if a secondary education degree is right for you. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I enjoy working with young students?
• How well did I perform academically in school?
• Do I have a favorite subject?
• Am I patient and compassionate?
• Do I consider myself to be a leader?

Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Secondary Education Program

Consider the following factors if you're ready to begin your search for a secondary education degree program.

College Rankings

Prospective students should consider college rankings when pursuing a secondary education degree. Top schools for pedagogy have a high ranking for their undergraduate degree or graduate degree programs in education.

Well-Respected Credential

Both employers and universities respect secondary education degrees from accredited institutions. Secondary education graduates can expect more employment opportunities and educational opportunities as they consider graduate programs.