Secondary Education, BS

One of the few programs of its kind in North Carolina, secondary education combines shared education coursework with specialized content-area preparation. Students build foundational teaching skills, collaborate with peers across disciplines, and develop a strong professional network before focusing on their chosen concentration.

Through clinical partnerships, internships, and mentorship from experienced faculty, students gain hands-on classroom experience and the confidence to lead diverse learners. Graduates are prepared for teacher licensure and careers teaching their chosen subject area.

Get started on your secondary education bachelor’s degree

Take the next step toward earning your bachelor’s degree in secondary education. We have the resources to answer all your questions and help you get started.

Why study secondary education at ECU?

ECU’s secondary education degree is a unique program in North Carolina allowing students to learn from a variety of instructors and meet other secondary educators from different content areas. Principals consistently report that graduates of the College of Education enter the classroom with the confidence and effectiveness typically seen in second- or third-year teachers.

Enjoy peer support and networking

ECU and the College of Education offer myriad ways to connect with your fellow students. From deciding to live in Ballard Residence Hall in the Education Living-Learning Community and studying abroad with your peers to participating in student organizations, you will find your people at ECU.

Scholarship opportunities

Every year, the College of Education gives out more than $1 million in scholarship funding. ECU is also a North Carolina Teaching Fellows affiliated university, allowing eligible students to receive up to $40,000 in forgivable loans.

Learn from award-winning faculty

ECU faculty are consistently recognized for their teaching, research and mentorship. Under their guidance, you’ll learn not only the subject matter but also how to become a trusted mentor to other teachers.

Courses you will take in the secondary education program

At ECU, you’ll receive a thorough understanding of becoming a teacher in the secondary education setting while developing your knowledge and skills in the content area you desire to teach.

You’ll explore the latest techniques on teaching and learning, immerse yourself in the classroom environment through a semester-long internship, and evaluate assessment and engagement:

• Foundations of American Education
• Early Experiences in Teaching Middle and High School
• Learning Theory, Assessment, and Engagement in Middle and High Schools
• Teaching Students with Disabilities in General Education Classrooms

View more information and courses on Degree Explorer (link to come)

What can you do with your bachelor’s in secondary education?

Your completion of our bachelor’s in secondary education prepares you to enter the classroom, ready to instruct the next generation. After passing licensure exams, you will hold a valid A-level license in North Carolina.

Potential Career Paths

• Middle school teacher
• High school teacher
• Educator at museum
• Curriculum specialist
• Professional development trainer

Institutional and Professional Licensure Disclosures for Enrolled and Prospective Students

ECU degree programs satisfy the professional licensure and/or certification requirements in North Carolina and prepare students to sit for these exams.  However, requirements in other states may be different.

If you are considering a degree program that may, would, could or potentially lead to a professional license and/or certification, please note that at this time ECU may or may not be able to advise whether a  program meets requirements outside of North Carolina.  Prior to enrolling in a degree program, please discuss this important topic with your program of interest.