The Secondary Education program is designed to serve those secondary school teachers who desire to remain classroom teachers. The goal of the program is to provide the classroom teacher with the expertise, knowledge, and skills to become a master teacher.

There are four areas of specialization: (a) academic content major, (b) curriculum specialist, and (c) mathematics. The Master of Education degree program requires the completion of: 33-36 semester hours, a written comprehensive examination, and a seminar paper.

Admission to the Program

Applicants must be admitted to the Graduate School and must present proof of holding a current state professional teaching certificate certifying qualifications to teach an appropriate area of specialty.

Program Objectives

The program makes provisions for the student to acquire:

1. broad knowledge of school curriculum;
2. an in-depth understanding of current issues in secondary education;
3. knowledge of principles of teaching and learning related to classroom practices, procedures, and assessment;
4. knowledge and skills of classroom management and supervision;
5. knowledge and skills related to school community relations;
6. increased comprehension of the foundations of secondary education;
7. an interdisciplinary conceptualization of the role of the school and the society it serves, including special needs, multicultural, and global populations;
8. skills in research techniques and the use of various forms of assessment in the interpretation and evaluation of best practices as they relate to secondary education;
9. technological knowledge and skills related to curriculum design and implementation;
10. ability to interpret the curriculum to students and parents and to involve parents and students in the process of curriculum change;
11. skills in recognizing the importance of being a reflective practitioner and the value of theory in practice; and
12. skills as a mentor teacher to assist others in developing effective teaching strategies.

Degree Requirements

An area of specialization within secondary education must be selected. The student, in consultation with his/her graduate advisor, should make the selection of an area of specialization. The program includes: a total of 33 semester hours; a written, comprehensive examination; and a written research paper.

The written comprehensive examination may not be taken until the student has completed a minimum of 24 semester hours. Before an individual may take the final course, EDUC 540 Seminar in Secondary Education, the student must have been advanced to candidacy and have passed the written comprehensive examination.

Areas of Specialization

I. Academic Content Field

Four courses of electives in an elected content area (up to 12 hours may be transferred)

II. Curriculum Specialist

III. Secondary Mathematics

Two mathematics electives from the following:

Two education electives from the following: