Secondary Education and Teaching: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Secondary Education and Teaching programs equip future educators with the advanced pedagogical knowledge, subject-matter expertise, and classroom management skills necessary to inspire and guide students in the secondary school environment. Designed for those committed to shaping adolescent learning experiences, the curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and real-world instructional strategies tailored to grades seven through twelve, as defined by regional educational standards.

• Curriculum Development and Instructional Design: Learn to create engaging, standards-aligned lesson plans that promote critical thinking, creativity, and academic growth across diverse learning environments.
• Subject-Matter Specialization: Gain deep expertise in a specific academic discipline—such as mathematics, science, English, or social studies—enabling effective delivery of complex content to adolescent learners.
• Adolescent Development and Learning Theories: Explore the cognitive, emotional, and social growth patterns of early to late adolescents to inform responsive and inclusive teaching practices.
• Classroom Management and Behavior Strategies: Develop evidence-based techniques for fostering positive classroom cultures, managing diverse behaviors, and supporting student well-being.
• Assessment and Data-Driven Instruction: Master methods for evaluating student progress through formative and summative assessments, using data to refine teaching approaches and support individualized learning.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Education: Examine systemic barriers in schooling and cultivate practices that ensure equitable access to high-quality education for all students, regardless of background or identity.
• Field-Based Practicum and Student Teaching: Apply theoretical knowledge in real secondary classrooms through supervised teaching experiences, gaining hands-on insight into instructional leadership and professional responsibilities.