Why Secondary Education at UT Southern?
If you have a passion for learning, a desire to inspire others, and a commitment to making a difference, a career in secondary education may be the perfect fit for you. Pursuing a career at the middle and high school levels is not just about teaching subjects; it’s about fostering a love for learning, nurturing potential, and preparing students to navigate an increasingly complex world with confidence and resilience.
Every day at UT Southern’s Grissom School of Education is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact and shape the future through inspiring young minds. We believe in preparing knowledgeable educators adaptable to professional, social, and technological change. Our mission is to foster lifelong learners committed to service and continuous professional development through inquiry and reflective practice. The sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that comes from teaching is unparalleled, and we are here to guide you on this rewarding journey.
Whether you choose our bachelor’s degree in Biology, English, History, Mathematics, or Physical Education with K-12 licensure, Elementary Education, or Special Education with interventionist licensure, our programs are designed to empower you with the skills and credentials to thrive in diverse educational settings.
It’s important to know that licensure programs are professional programs that require you to apply and be granted admission into the program. You can learn more about these requirements in the UT Southern Course Catalog. Further, Tennessee teacher licensure includes a clinical practice component. This hands-on experience, which lasts fifteen weeks and involves two placements within a 50-mile radius of our campus, prepares you for the challenges and rewards of classroom leadership.
Also, students in our programs have the flexibility to specialize further and tailor their education to their interests and career goals. For example, you can pursue an endorsement in Special Education by taking five additional courses. Or you can opt for a minor in Coaching or pursue specialized training through our state-approved Driver’s Education Endorsement, which is available to all education majors.
A Word About Minors
A minor in another field of study may be possible. A minor, which is typically eighteen credit hours, is a grouping of courses in a particular academic field of study designed to provide you with expanded knowledge and competency in an area outside your major. Reach out to a program coordinator for more information.
Program Details
Degree Type
Bachelor of Science
Program Coordinator
What’s Possible With a Degree in Secondary Education?
Envision a job where you teach a subject you love, collaborate with colleagues, flex creative muscles, and partner with young people to guide them toward adulthood. Together, at UT Southern’s Grissom School of Education, we can make a positive difference in the lives of the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators.
Career options include:
- Curriculum Developer
- Education Policy Analyst Department Chair
- Tutor or Academic Coach
- Education Technology Specialist
- Educational Consultant
- High School Teacher
- Middle School Teacher
- School Administrator or Principal
- Textbook Author or Educational Writer
The Courses You’ll Take
Licensure in Grades 6-12 Concentration Coursework + Recommended Four-Year Plan
Physical Education
Mathematics
Coaching Minor
Driver Education Endorsement
Other Essential Information
- Admission to the Education Program
- Admission to Clinical Practice for All Programs
- Admission to the Non-licensure Elementary Education Program
- Other Program Information
- Title II Praxis Pass Rates and Scaled Scores for the Education Program
- Post Baccalaureate Education Candidates Seeking Initial Licensure or Endorsement
Good to Know
Before starting any field experiences, which are required in certain courses, you need to join the Student Tennessee Education Association. This membership helps you learn about professional responsibilities and provides insurance coverage.
Students may join Kappa Delta Pi, the Education Honors Society. There are also many opportunities to volunteer in local schools and organizations that work with children.
Explore Related Programs
Merit Aid Program: Free Tuition for Qualifying Students
We’re committed to providing access to all! In conjunction with UT Promise, HOPE, the state lottery, and institutional aid, 75% of Tennessee residents qualify to attend UT Southern for free. In addition, approximately 97% of our students are qualified to receive financial aid.
