Middle and/or secondary education programs prepare students to teach select academic disciplines at middle and senior high schools. The course work in instructional methods emphasizes helping the preservice teacher become skilled at communicating the principles and concepts basic to an academic subject. Students gain first-hand experience in actual classroom situations early in their University studies, usually in the sophomore year. With an emphasis on acquiring content in the academic discipline and with intensive preparation in simulated and actual teaching situations, students experience and demonstrate competencies required for successful teaching.

Students may elect to prepare for teaching in one or more of the following areas: Art (PreK-8, 5-12)  ; Biology (8-12)  ; Business (5-12)  ; Chemistry (8-12)  ; English (5-8, 8-12)  ; General Science (5-8)  ; History (5-8, 8-12)  ; Mathematics (5-8, 8-12)  ; Music (all levels)  ; Physical Education (PReK-8, 5-12)  . Students seeking licensure in Art, Music or Physical Education should refer to the specific requirements listed under the appropriate academic major.

All students interested in middle or secondary licensure must complete an application for the professional sequence – please see your advisor. Applications are also available in the Education Department in Parenzo Hall. Students preparing to teach at the middle or secondary level must complete the Professional Sequence in Education in addition to the requirements of the appropriate major. All students are required to meet regularly with their academic and education advisor to ensure a timely completion of program requirements. Candidates in Art, Music, or Physical Education should make an appointment with the appropriate chair of their department.

To be accepted for Advanced Standing within the major, licensure, or professional sequence, a student must have completed 57 credits, have achieved an overall GPA of 2.6, earned an average of 2.7 (B-) or better in ENGL 0101  and ENGL 0102 , and passed the Communication and Literacy exam (i.e. Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL): Communication and Literacy). A minimum overall GPA of 2.8 (including transfer work) and a passing grade on the MTEL subject matter test(s) are required for practicum placement. Undergraduates who have completed all the requirements of the licensure program in secondary education are recommended by the University for initial licensure issued by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.