Secondary Education
Prepare to teach, lead, and inspire students in grades 8–12
The Secondary Education program at Kentucky Wesleyan College trains future teachers to excel in middle and high school classrooms. With coursework in pedagogy, subject-area mastery, and classroom management, students graduate prepared for licensure and impactful careers in education.
Secondary Education Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Secondary Education major combines strong content knowledge with practical teaching experience. Students pair their education coursework with a chosen subject area such as English, mathematics, history, or science. Classes in educational psychology, instructional methods, and assessment prepare students to design effective lessons and manage diverse classrooms. Faculty mentors provide personalized guidance and support throughout the program. Engaged learning includes field experiences in local schools, leading up to a semester of full-time student teaching. Service-learning and professional development opportunities strengthen your preparation. By graduation, you’ll be ready to meet licensure requirements and begin your career as a confident, effective educator.
Career Paths
Middle or High School Teacher – Secondary teachers educate students in grades 8–12, specializing in subjects like English, math, science, or social studies. They design lessons, assess learning, and inspire young minds.
Curriculum Specialist – Curriculum specialists develop, evaluate, and improve instructional materials and teaching strategies. They support teachers in implementing effective practices across schools and districts.
Instructional Coach – Instructional coaches mentor teachers, model best practices, and provide feedback to strengthen classroom instruction and student achievement.
Education Administrator (with Graduate Study) – Administrators serve as principals, assistant principals, or district leaders, overseeing school operations, staff, and student success.
Nonprofit or Youth Program Leader – Education graduates often lead after-school, nonprofit, or community programs that support learning, mentorship, and youth development outside traditional classrooms.
Graduate Study in Education – Many graduates pursue advanced degrees in curriculum development, educational leadership, or subject-area specialties, opening pathways to higher-level roles in education.
Secondary Education Program Requirements
The Secondary Education major requires approximately 65–70 credit hours, including both education and subject-area coursework. Core education courses include Foundations of Education, Educational Psychology, Instructional Strategies, Assessment in Education, and Classroom Management. Students also complete specialized methods courses aligned with their chosen teaching field (English, math, history, or science). Field placements begin early in the program, giving students direct classroom experience under the mentorship of licensed teachers. A full semester of student teaching in a partner school serves as the capstone, providing intensive preparation for licensure. Graduates meet Kentucky teacher certification standards and are well-prepared for careers in middle and high school education.
