What you'll learn

Students will learn exciting and cutting-edge techniques from world-renowned faculty who engage in contemporary classroom-based research. Through coursework and extensive clinical experiences, students have the opportunity to master content, gain pedagogical expertise, and practice their teaching craft in their respective certification area. The course sequence is purposeful and has been created so that students build on their knowledge each semester in meaningful ways. The curriculum aligns with the Michigan Department of Education standards to ensure students become highly prepared educators.

Curriculum

You can choose between two pathways on your journey to becoming a highly qualified educator.

Major concentrations - Grades 7-12

English/Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies

Clinical experiences

In addition to classroom experiences, students will engage in multiple clinical experiences at varying points throughout the program. Clinical courses are co-requisites with methods courses, allowing students to engage in real-world application of the content they learn in courses. In their final semester in the program, students will engage in full-time student teaching, during which they will take the lead in a high school classroom environment for an extended period of time. Students will be supported by cooperating teachers, university supervisors, and the clinical office during their clinical experiences. Students are required to complete an application for all clinical courses the semester prior to enrolling in a clinical course.

Career outlook for individuals

Students who successfully complete the certification program and pass the required Michigan Tests for Teacher Certification (MTTCs) will be eligible to be hired as a certified teacher in their grade band and content area within the state of Michigan. Currently, Michigan is experiencing a significant teacher shortage. Students will be entering a job market with many opportunities. Wayne State University teacher certification graduates are sought out by school districts state-wide. Many of our graduates continue their education to become school administrators, counselors, athletic directors, work in the non-profit sector and much more!

Admission requirements

Undergraduate students entering Wayne State University, either from high school or transferring from other accredited universities or colleges, are admitted to the program as a pre-major. At this time, students begin taking foundational education coursework in the Teacher Education Division. Students are then required to apply for admission to the professional program. Cohort admission will take place prior to moving to year three. Requirements include successful completion of year 1 and year 2 coursework. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher by program completion to earn a degree in Middle Childhood Education and to be eligible for a Michigan Standard Teaching Certificate.

Learn more

Develop the knowledge and skills that are essential for success as a future educator. With a B.S.Ed. in Secondary Education, you'll be one step closer to making the difference in the lives of children.

• Want to find out more about secondary education at Wayne State? Request more information
• Eager to get started? Apply now
• Make sure you are on track for graduation - Speak with an academic advisor

Professional Licensure Program Disclosure

The University has determined that the curriculum of the initial teacher certification and endorsement programs at Wayne State University in the College of Education, leading to a credential as a certified teacher, meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in all states. However, there may be specific state requirements beyond the reciprocity agreement.

Accreditation

CAEP_Accreditation

The College of Education educator preparation programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).  

Accreditation means that a program meets the standards set by the academic and professional community. It’s a seal of approval indicating that the program prepares new educators to teach effectively.

Career insights

This tool provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills, or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.