Teaching is one of the most challenging, yet most rewarding careers a person can choose. As a teacher, you mold young minds and prepare children for the future. Not only do you instruct students on core subjects, but you are able to share your experiences and serve as a role model.

In Pennsylvania, prospective teachers choose to focus their studies on either primary or secondary education. Teaching at the secondary level gives teachers the opportunity to help students delve more deeply into specific subject areas and can continue to challenge students to think outside of the box and rise to meet high expectations in preparation for life beyond high school.

The coursework and training required to obtain a Secondary Education Degree in Pennsylvania prepares students to meet the diverse needs of today’s ever-changing classrooms at the middle and high school levels. Secondary Education candidates are required to complete a total of 120 credit hours in liberal studies, professional education, and in a major subject area of their choice. Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a bachelor’s degree and will be eligible for state certification.

Master's Degree Programs

Pennsylvania Universities also offer Master’s Degree programs in Secondary Education. Students can choose to purse a Master of Education Degree in Secondary Education in English, Mathematics and Science, or Social Studies/History. The Master’s Degree programs are offered in two different tracks: The Basic Teaching Track and The Advanced Teaching Track.

The Basic Teaching Track is for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and relevant, appropriate coursework in their desired concentration. The Basic Teaching Track is a 36-semester hour program, often beginning during summer sessions, though students can choose to begin in the fall or spring semester. Upon successful completion of the program, students will obtain a Master’s Degree and are eligible to apply for state certification.

Students who already hold certification in one of the aforementioned concentrations can complete The Advanced Teaching Track. Through this track, students will complete core requirements and complete 12 semester hours of coursework in history, foundations of education, instructional technology or counseling for the purpose of professional development.

Because the goal of Pennsylvania Universities is to prepare teaching candidates for today’s diverse classrooms, students are expected to complete a professional semester of teaching, and on-campus career planning is available to help students get started on their new career upon graduation.

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