Search Programs

2023 Best Online Secondary Education Degrees

By OnlineU Staff Writers | Updated 3/6/2023
2023 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Secondary Education Badge

Individuals who enjoy teaching children aged 11-18 may be interested in earning a secondary education degree online. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for school teachers is rising. The US currently employs nearly 1.6 million middle and high school teachers, and that number is projected to increase to more than 1.7 million by 2030.

Our list below of the best secondary education degrees is organized by the highest alumni salaries for each program. View our methodology for more details about our list or learn more about OnlineU.

2023 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Secondary Education Badge
Find an Online Degree:

Online Secondary Education Bachelor's Degrees You May Be Interested In


List Of Accredited Online Secondary Education Schools

Western Governors University

  • Annual Tuition: $6,670
  • Locations: Salt Lake City (UT)
  • Accreditation: NWCCU

Western Governors University (WGU) is a large, private institution that offers several online Bachelor’s of Science degrees for Secondary Education. These science and math programs lead to licensure and teaching at various levels. These degree programs take between three and four years with a full-time schedule, including Demonstration Teaching, a Cohort Seminar, and a Professional Portfolio. All programs offer classes in their specific concentrations as well as teaching classes, such as Educational Technology for Teaching & Learning, Secondary Reading Instruction & Interventions, and Fundamentals of Diverse Learners. Some programs send students laboratory equipment to assist their coursework at home.

At WGU, students use Handshake to access their coursework. The coursework is mostly online, except for Demonstration Teaching.

Texas Tech University

  • Annual Tuition: $19,260
  • Locations: Lubbock (TX)
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

Texas Tech University (TTU), a public institution, offers several online Bachelor of Science in Education with multiple degrees at the secondary level. Some of the concentrations offered include Middle-Level Language Arts, Secondary English, and Elementary EC-6 Certification — all requiring between 120-124 credit hours. TTU’s acceptance rate is 70%, and it has a graduation rate of 62%.

TTU online students complete coursework delivered asynchronously and synchronously on the LMS Blackboard. An online bachelor’s in secondary education gives students the skills and knowledge to deliver curricula for grades 7-12. Sample courses are Early Literacy in the School Setting, Elementary Problem Solving, and Adolescent Literature. Students can also expect to complete supervised student teaching. Prospective career paths for graduates include math teachers, substitute teachers, and program coordinators.

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

  • Annual Tuition: $19,834
  • Locations: Waxahachie (TX)
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) is a private, nonprofit, Christian institution offering two online degrees in secondary education: (1) a Bachelor of Arts in English, Language Arts and Reading (Middle and Secondary Education) (124 credit hours) and (2) Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies and History (Middle and Secondary) (127 credit hours). Full-time students typically take four years to complete these programs online. SAGU’s acceptance rate is 89%, and it has a 44% graduation rate.

SAGU facilitates online learning through Blackboard, and these remote programs focus on teaching grades 7-12. Sample courses include Advanced Literary Instruction, Classroom Management, and Instructional Technology. Both programs require students to complete supervised student teaching. Potential career paths include history teachers, English teachers, and teaching assistants.

Chadron State College

  • Annual Tuition: $7,586
  • Locations: Chadron (NE)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Chadron State College (CSC) is a small, public institution. CSC offers an online Bachelor of Science in Education - Secondary (6-12, 7-12, PK-12, K-12) requiring 120 credits. CSC’s BS in Education offers both Field Endorsement Programs and Subject Endorsement Programs, meaning you can specialize in a general field — like English or Mathematics — or a specific subject — like Biology or History. The program takes about four years to complete, with the last year being a “Professional Year” that includes a capstone course and teaching internship. This major offers education courses that include Technology Resources for Learning, Assessment Foundations, and Differentiated Instruction for Diverse Classrooms.

At CSC, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is asynchronous.

Western New Mexico University

  • Annual Tuition: $13,539
  • Locations: Silver City (NM)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) is a public institution that offers an online Bachelor of Arts or Science in Secondary Education requiring 120 credit hours. Prospective students can expect to spend four years completing the program. The university accepts 100% of applicants, and it has a 32% graduation rate.

WNMU facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning on the learning management system (LMS) Blackboard. The college's online bachelor’s in secondary education covers classroom management and assessment methods. Courses include Multicultural Education, Technology Integration in the Classroom, and Reading Skills Secondary Education. Students are required to complete secondary practice teaching, a seminar, and pass all PRAXIS tests. Graduates may go on to enter careers as social studies teachers, curriculum developers, and education coordinators.

Chaminade University of Honolulu

  • Annual Tuition: $26,134
  • Locations: Honolulu (HI)
  • Accreditation: WSCUC

The Caminade University of Honolulu (CUH) is a small, private institution. It has an online Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education that requires 120 credits. CUH provides students with knowledge about learner development and diverse environments, which helps prepare students to optimize their learning styles for secondary students. Some core courses in this program include Managing School Environments, Introduction to Exceptional Children, and Curriculum & Instruction. The program also requires Seminar and Student Teaching courses. It has four licensure tracks: (1) English, (2) Social Studies, (3) Science, and (4) Mathematics. Students can complete their degree in four years with a full-time schedule. Graduates of CUH’s program are eligible for licensure in the state of Hawaii.

At CUH, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is mostly online and asynchronous.

Ottawa University Online

  • Annual Tuition: $12,316
  • Locations: Ottawa (KS)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Ottawa University Online (OU) is a small, private institution. OU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics - Secondary Education, which requires 124 credit hours. Some core classes in this major include Educational Psychology, Foundations of Schools in a Diverse Society, and Transition to Higher Mathematics. The program also requires a capstone course — called Integrative Seminar in Mathematics — in which students create an integrative project. OU’s online degree program takes four years with a full-time schedule, and graduates go on to work as teachers and researchers.

At OU, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous.

Arizona Christian University

  • Annual Tuition: $27,890
  • Locations: Phoenix (AZ)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Arizona Christian University (ACU) is a small, private university. ACU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, which includes specialization options in business, language arts, history, math, and science. These programs require 120 credit hours, and students with a full-time schedule can complete their chosen degree in four years. Education courses in this major include Tests & Measurements, Educational Psychology, and Classroom Management. This program requires Directed Student Teaching and a Secondary Education capstone course, both of which provide graduates with teaching experience before they pursue careers in education.

At ACU, students use Canvas to access their online coursework, which is asynchronous.

Drury University

  • Annual Tuition: $29,665
  • Locations: Springfield (MO)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Drury University (DU) is a small, private institution that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, which requires 124 credit hours and takes four years with a full-time schedule. This program has three content areas for certification: (1) Biology, (2) English & Writing, and (3) History. All three programs have courses specific to them, but some general education courses include Collaborative Classroom Environments, Diversity & Social Justice in Education, and Introduction To Mild/Moderate Disabilities. Students get experience teaching and developing curriculum before they graduate to become teachers and school administrators.

At DU, students use Moodle to access their coursework, which is completely online and asynchronous.

Find an Online Degree:

What Is a Bachelor's in Secondary Education Degree?

Secondary educators — both middle school and high school teachers — provide a significant service to their students. They help young people acquire the necessary knowledge, social abilities, and life skills for adult life. 

A bachelor's degree program in secondary education is designed to give you the information and tools you'll need to work successfully with young people in the classroom. By learning the current learning theories and strategies in education, you'll discover how to design engaging lesson plans, encourage learning with different types of students, and manage your classroom effectively.

There are three major types of secondary education bachelor's degrees — a Bachelor of Education (BEd), a Bachelor of Arts (BA), and a Bachelor of Science (BS). BEd programs typically focus on the practice of teaching, making it a great choice for those who plan to become teachers. BA and BS programs cover both the study of learning and the practice of teaching, which may prepare you for a broader range of roles in education. These roles include teacher, learning designer, or administrator. BA programs emphasize the arts and humanities, while BS programs emphasize math and science.

Secondary Education Degrees and State Licensure

To legally work as a teacher, you'll need to obtain state licensure, often called a teaching credential. If you're considering earning your secondary education degree online, it's important to choose a program that will help you meet all of the requirements in the state where you plan to work, not just the state in which your college is located. 

Each state has its own unique requirements. For example, states may have different specifications about a teacher candidate's training to teach different subjects and grade levels. You may want to explore your state's specific secondary education requirements for licensure before enrolling in a program. Be sure to confirm that your program's courses, fieldwork, and practicum hours will prepare you for sitting for the teaching credential exam and qualify you for a teaching credential. 

Degree Requirements

Bachelor's programs in secondary education require the completion of approximately 120 credit hours. About half of the required courses cover general education subjects, such as math, literature, and science, while the other half are core courses and electives in secondary education. Most full-time students take four to five years to complete a program, while part-time learners may need more time. 

Secondary education degree programs include several field experiences as you progress through a program. Again, these program components are designed to help you meet the requirements to earn your state teaching license or credential after graduation.

Depending on the program, fieldwork can take several forms — in-class observation, internships, and unpaid student teaching, for example. The final degree requirement for most programs is the completion of one or two semesters of full-time student teaching. Some programs will work with your local institutions to help you find these fieldwork placements. 

Education Courses

The curriculum for a bachelor's degree in secondary education is based on the grade level that future graduates intend to teach. For example, if prospective educators plan to teach middle school, they would typically take courses about how to instruct their students on an array of subjects, such as English, math, and history. By contrast, future high school teachers are more likely to take classes focused on teaching a single content area. 

All programs, however, include general education classes, foundational courses about pedagogy, and electives in practical teaching methods and skills. The following courses are often found in secondary education bachelor's programs:

Classroom Management and Engagement 

Creating a positive, inclusive learning environment in the classroom is essential to student and teacher success. This course introduces concepts and principles that teachers can use to engage their students' attention and effectively manage their classes. 

Curriculum and Assessment 

In this course, teacher candidates learn about curriculum development by planning and sequencing lessons to produce desired learning outcomes. Coursework may also include the administration and interpretation of standardized tests. 

Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning 

Technology has proven to be a valuable asset for teaching many subjects, particularly science, technology, education, and math (STEM). In this course, teacher candidates discover a number of technological tools and learn how to use them in their lesson plans. They also learn to assist their students in developing technology skills. 

Educational Psychology of Children and Adolescents 

By understanding how adolescents grow and develop cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically, teachers are better prepared to work with young adults. Teacher candidates learn to construct healthy learning environments that support and motivate their students. 

Admissions

Colleges may set different application deadlines, so it's important to know the exact deadlines of the school or schools of your choice. In general, however, prospective students may submit their applications as early as the beginning of the academic year preceding the fall semester when they plan to start attending college. 

When you're submitting your online college application, you may be asked for several of the following documents:

  • Official high school or GED transcripts, usually with a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
  • Scores from college entrance exams, such as the SAT or ACT 
  • One or more letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or other mentors
  • A list of extracurricular activities, jobs, and volunteer activities

What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Secondary Education Degree?

If you're interested in working in the education field and focusing on middle and high school students, secondary education may be the ideal educational path for you. If you'd rather work with younger children, you may want to investigate degrees in early childhood education and elementary education. Of course, graduates with online secondary education degrees are not limited to careers as teachers. With additional experience and education, they may become learning specialists, curriculum designers, school principals, or education administrators.

Further Education

Depending on your state's licensure requirements and your career goals, you may want to consider pursuing a graduate degree.

Master's in Secondary Education

Earning an online master's degree in secondary education may make you a better-qualified job candidate and may increase your salary potential. These two-year degree programs are designed to give you advanced teaching skills and strategies. A master's degree may prepare you for other roles in education as well, such as school principal or administrator. You could also consider earning a master's in school counseling, master's in educational leadership, or master's in elementary education.

Doctorate in Secondary Education

If you want to continue your education beyond the master's level, you may want to earn a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree, which prepares students for high-level administrative roles in education. If research and the study of learning and education interests you, then a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education may be the best choice for you.

Other Education Specializations

Some secondary teachers choose to specialize in teaching certain subjects or working with specific types of students. Training in these specializations may come from bachelor's coursework, postgraduate certification, or master's programs. Some of the more common specialties include the following:

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Middle school and high school can be particularly challenging for young students who are accustomed to speaking another language besides English. ESL degree graduates work with students one-on-one or in small groups to help them learn to speak, read, and write in English.

Special Education

Special education teachers work with students who have learning, emotional, or physical disabilities. They often adapt lesson plans and activities for students with mild to moderate disabilities, and they coach these students in developing effective learning strategies.

Health Education

As students progress through the 7th to 12th grades, their bodies change considerably, and they need information to help them stay healthy. Teachers who specialize in health education inform students about anatomy, hygiene, sex, and more.

Physical Education (PE)

Just like health, physical education is important for young adults. Physical education specialists teach students about fitness and how their physical health may impact their mental and emotional health. In the process, PE teachers may help students discover and develop their athletic abilities.

Secondary Education Careers

Earning an online secondary education degree prepares you for a number of different career options. Many graduates become high school or middle school teachers. They plan lessons and provide instruction in the academic subject they teach, which may be English, math, physical science, or something similar. They also help students develop skills, assess student learning, and communicate with parents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual pay for teachers across the country is $61,820.

Other career options include working as a special education teacher focused on young students with learning challenges or a technical education teacher in vocation-oriented high schools and community colleges.

Learn about what it takes to become a teacher in our comprehensive teaching career guides.

Financing Your Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education

Prior to enrolling in a program to earn a degree for secondary education, you may want to establish how much you can afford to pay for your education. Knowing your budget may help you select the ideal college for your needs. You may also want to determine the degree's return on investment (ROI). To calculate the ROI, compare the total cost of earning the degree to your potential lifetime earnings from a career in secondary education. 

Cost

Our list of the best online secondary education degrees shows that tuition rates vary among schools. To help you determine an average estimate, we turned to the College Board's 2022 report, which indicates that the average annual tuition fee is $10,940 for four-year public schools and $39,400 for four-year private schools. The College Board also estimates that students spend an average of $1,240 on books and other supplies each year. Some schools, however, charge lower fees for online degree programs than they do for on-campus programs. Also, online students do not have to factor in room, board, and transportation expenses.

Financial Aid

Online and on-campus students are eligible to apply for financial aid. Even if you don't think you'll qualify, experts recommend that all prospective college students submit a Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if they can obtain some type of financial assistance.

There are many forms and sources of financial aid. Once you've applied by submitting the FAFSA form, you'll be notified by mail if you qualify for assistance from the federal or state government or from your school. Grants and scholarships are preferred because they don't generally need to be paid back, unlike student loans that must be repaid with interest. There are also many privately sponsored scholarships — some specifically intended for teaching and education majors — but you'll need to submit separate applications to obtain them.

Before accepting a student loan, you'll want to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of the two major types of loans. In general, federal student loans offered through the government are preferable to private student loans offered by banks and lending institutions. Federally funded loans tend to have lower interest rates and better repayment terms.

Because teaching is considered a public service, you may also qualify for financial assistance programs specifically designed for educators. For example, the TEACH Grant and the Teach for America program may help you fund your education as long as you agree to the terms of service.

What Else Should You Consider?

Before making a final decision regarding a bachelor's degree in secondary education, you'll naturally want to consider whether this degree will equip you for the kind of career you have in mind. You might also want to confirm that your first choice school provides student services, like academic advising, tutoring, and job placement assistance.

Another important consideration is accreditation, which proves that a college or university has met established standards of excellence. You need to be enrolled in an accredited program to receive federal financial aid, transfer credits between schools, gain acceptance into a graduate program, and possibly obtain a teaching credential. Make sure your program has earned institutional accreditation by checking the U.S. Department of Education or Council on Higher Education Accreditation websites. Also look for programs that have earned programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

You'll also want to decide whether to earn your degree online or on campus. Online degree programs usually provide greater flexibility in your schedule, which may help you fit college into your busy life. However, online learning requires more time management, so students who need more structure and accountability may prefer on-campus classes. Also, some schools may feature asynchronous courses, as opposed to synchronous or live-streaming courses, which could influence your choice of online programs.

Additionally, if you decide to earn your secondary education degree online through a college in another state, make sure that the program prepares you to meet the licensure requirements in the state where you plan to teach.

FAQs About Bachelor's in Secondary Education Programs

What Grades Can You Teach With a Secondary Education Degree?


With a secondary education degree, you can teach middle school grades 6-8 and high school grades 9-12, depending on your state's requirements. Secondary education jobs at the high school level typically require professionals to have expertise in teaching one particular academic subject, such as English, math, science, or social studies.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Secondary Education Degree?


A secondary education degree typically requires the completion of about 120 credit hours, including one or two semesters of classroom teaching experience. Most full-time students are able to fulfill these requirements in four to five years, but part-time students may need additional time.

Is a Secondary Education Degree Worth It?


If you're looking for a rewarding career working with young adults, a degree in secondary education is worth it. According to an ongoing survey of more than 17,500 secondary education teachers, professionals rate their job satisfaction at 3.4 out of 5 stars. However, there are a few potential drawbacks, including modest salaries and limited resources for use in the classroom.

Is Secondary Education Hard?


Depending on each student's strengths and motivation, a secondary education degree program may be more challenging for some than others. You'll be required to take courses in two major areas — teaching and the subject you plan to teach. You'll also need to develop skills in speaking to a group, listening, instructing, and planning.

Bottom Line

Getting an education degree online can be rewarding and satisfying. If you're interested in teaching middle school and high school students, pursuing a bachelor's degree in secondary education may be the right choice for you. With additional graduate education, you'll be qualified for a variety of career opportunities as a superintendent, principal, education administrator, and more.

What Is a Bachelor's in Secondary Education Degree?

Secondary educators — both middle school and high school teachers — provide a significant service to their students. They help young people acquire the necessary knowledge, social abilities, and life skills for adult life. 

A bachelor's degree program in secondary education is designed to give you the information and tools you'll need to work successfully with young people in the classroom. By learning the current learning theories and strategies in education, you'll discover how to design engaging lesson plans, encourage learning with different types of students, and manage your classroom effectively.

There are three major types of secondary education bachelor's degrees — a Bachelor of Education (BEd), a Bachelor of Arts (BA), and a Bachelor of Science (BS). BEd programs typically focus on the practice of teaching, making it a great choice for those who plan to become teachers. BA and BS programs cover both the study of learning and the practice of teaching, which may prepare you for a broader range of roles in education. These roles include teacher, learning designer, or administrator. BA programs emphasize the arts and humanities, while BS programs emphasize math and science.

Secondary Education Degrees and State Licensure

To legally work as a teacher, you'll need to obtain state licensure, often called a teaching credential. If you're considering earning your secondary education degree online, it's important to choose a program that will help you meet all of the requirements in the state where you plan to work, not just the state in which your college is located. 

Each state has its own unique requirements. For example, states may have different specifications about a teacher candidate's training to teach different subjects and grade levels. You may want to explore your state's specific secondary education requirements for licensure before enrolling in a program. Be sure to confirm that your program's courses, fieldwork, and practicum hours will prepare you for sitting for the teaching credential exam and qualify you for a teaching credential. 

Degree Requirements

Bachelor's programs in secondary education require the completion of approximately 120 credit hours. About half of the required courses cover general education subjects, such as math, literature, and science, while the other half are core courses and electives in secondary education. Most full-time students take four to five years to complete a program, while part-time learners may need more time. 

Secondary education degree programs include several field experiences as you progress through a program. Again, these program components are designed to help you meet the requirements to earn your state teaching license or credential after graduation.

Depending on the program, fieldwork can take several forms — in-class observation, internships, and unpaid student teaching, for example. The final degree requirement for most programs is the completion of one or two semesters of full-time student teaching. Some programs will work with your local institutions to help you find these fieldwork placements. 

Education Courses

The curriculum for a bachelor's degree in secondary education is based on the grade level that future graduates intend to teach. For example, if prospective educators plan to teach middle school, they would typically take courses about how to instruct their students on an array of subjects, such as English, math, and history. By contrast, future high school teachers are more likely to take classes focused on teaching a single content area. 

All programs, however, include general education classes, foundational courses about pedagogy, and electives in practical teaching methods and skills. The following courses are often found in secondary education bachelor's programs:

Classroom Management and Engagement 

Creating a positive, inclusive learning environment in the classroom is essential to student and teacher success. This course introduces concepts and principles that teachers can use to engage their students' attention and effectively manage their classes. 

Curriculum and Assessment 

In this course, teacher candidates learn about curriculum development by planning and sequencing lessons to produce desired learning outcomes. Coursework may also include the administration and interpretation of standardized tests. 

Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning 

Technology has proven to be a valuable asset for teaching many subjects, particularly science, technology, education, and math (STEM). In this course, teacher candidates discover a number of technological tools and learn how to use them in their lesson plans. They also learn to assist their students in developing technology skills. 

Educational Psychology of Children and Adolescents 

By understanding how adolescents grow and develop cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically, teachers are better prepared to work with young adults. Teacher candidates learn to construct healthy learning environments that support and motivate their students. 

Admissions

Colleges may set different application deadlines, so it's important to know the exact deadlines of the school or schools of your choice. In general, however, prospective students may submit their applications as early as the beginning of the academic year preceding the fall semester when they plan to start attending college. 

When you're submitting your online college application, you may be asked for several of the following documents:

  • Official high school or GED transcripts, usually with a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
  • Scores from college entrance exams, such as the SAT or ACT 
  • One or more letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or other mentors
  • A list of extracurricular activities, jobs, and volunteer activities

What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Secondary Education Degree?

If you're interested in working in the education field and focusing on middle and high school students, secondary education may be the ideal educational path for you. If you'd rather work with younger children, you may want to investigate degrees in early childhood education and elementary education. Of course, graduates with online secondary education degrees are not limited to careers as teachers. With additional experience and education, they may become learning specialists, curriculum designers, school principals, or education administrators.

Further Education

Depending on your state's licensure requirements and your career goals, you may want to consider pursuing a graduate degree.

Master's in Secondary Education

Earning an online master's degree in secondary education may make you a better-qualified job candidate and may increase your salary potential. These two-year degree programs are designed to give you advanced teaching skills and strategies. A master's degree may prepare you for other roles in education as well, such as school principal or administrator. You could also consider earning a master's in school counseling, master's in educational leadership, or master's in elementary education.

Doctorate in Secondary Education

If you want to continue your education beyond the master's level, you may want to earn a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree, which prepares students for high-level administrative roles in education. If research and the study of learning and education interests you, then a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education may be the best choice for you.

Other Education Specializations

Some secondary teachers choose to specialize in teaching certain subjects or working with specific types of students. Training in these specializations may come from bachelor's coursework, postgraduate certification, or master's programs. Some of the more common specialties include the following:

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Middle school and high school can be particularly challenging for young students who are accustomed to speaking another language besides English. ESL degree graduates work with students one-on-one or in small groups to help them learn to speak, read, and write in English.

Special Education

Special education teachers work with students who have learning, emotional, or physical disabilities. They often adapt lesson plans and activities for students with mild to moderate disabilities, and they coach these students in developing effective learning strategies.

Health Education

As students progress through the 7th to 12th grades, their bodies change considerably, and they need information to help them stay healthy. Teachers who specialize in health education inform students about anatomy, hygiene, sex, and more.

Physical Education (PE)

Just like health, physical education is important for young adults. Physical education specialists teach students about fitness and how their physical health may impact their mental and emotional health. In the process, PE teachers may help students discover and develop their athletic abilities.

Secondary Education Careers

Earning an online secondary education degree prepares you for a number of different career options. Many graduates become high school or middle school teachers. They plan lessons and provide instruction in the academic subject they teach, which may be English, math, physical science, or something similar. They also help students develop skills, assess student learning, and communicate with parents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual pay for teachers across the country is $61,820.

Other career options include working as a special education teacher focused on young students with learning challenges or a technical education teacher in vocation-oriented high schools and community colleges.

Learn about what it takes to become a teacher in our comprehensive teaching career guides.

Financing Your Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education

Prior to enrolling in a program to earn a degree for secondary education, you may want to establish how much you can afford to pay for your education. Knowing your budget may help you select the ideal college for your needs. You may also want to determine the degree's return on investment (ROI). To calculate the ROI, compare the total cost of earning the degree to your potential lifetime earnings from a career in secondary education. 

Cost

Our list of the best online secondary education degrees shows that tuition rates vary among schools. To help you determine an average estimate, we turned to the College Board's 2022 report, which indicates that the average annual tuition fee is $10,940 for four-year public schools and $39,400 for four-year private schools. The College Board also estimates that students spend an average of $1,240 on books and other supplies each year. Some schools, however, charge lower fees for online degree programs than they do for on-campus programs. Also, online students do not have to factor in room, board, and transportation expenses.

Financial Aid

Online and on-campus students are eligible to apply for financial aid. Even if you don't think you'll qualify, experts recommend that all prospective college students submit a Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if they can obtain some type of financial assistance.

There are many forms and sources of financial aid. Once you've applied by submitting the FAFSA form, you'll be notified by mail if you qualify for assistance from the federal or state government or from your school. Grants and scholarships are preferred because they don't generally need to be paid back, unlike student loans that must be repaid with interest. There are also many privately sponsored scholarships — some specifically intended for teaching and education majors — but you'll need to submit separate applications to obtain them.

Before accepting a student loan, you'll want to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of the two major types of loans. In general, federal student loans offered through the government are preferable to private student loans offered by banks and lending institutions. Federally funded loans tend to have lower interest rates and better repayment terms.

Because teaching is considered a public service, you may also qualify for financial assistance programs specifically designed for educators. For example, the TEACH Grant and the Teach for America program may help you fund your education as long as you agree to the terms of service.

What Else Should You Consider?

Before making a final decision regarding a bachelor's degree in secondary education, you'll naturally want to consider whether this degree will equip you for the kind of career you have in mind. You might also want to confirm that your first choice school provides student services, like academic advising, tutoring, and job placement assistance.

Another important consideration is accreditation, which proves that a college or university has met established standards of excellence. You need to be enrolled in an accredited program to receive federal financial aid, transfer credits between schools, gain acceptance into a graduate program, and possibly obtain a teaching credential. Make sure your program has earned institutional accreditation by checking the U.S. Department of Education or Council on Higher Education Accreditation websites. Also look for programs that have earned programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

You'll also want to decide whether to earn your degree online or on campus. Online degree programs usually provide greater flexibility in your schedule, which may help you fit college into your busy life. However, online learning requires more time management, so students who need more structure and accountability may prefer on-campus classes. Also, some schools may feature asynchronous courses, as opposed to synchronous or live-streaming courses, which could influence your choice of online programs.

Additionally, if you decide to earn your secondary education degree online through a college in another state, make sure that the program prepares you to meet the licensure requirements in the state where you plan to teach.

FAQs About Bachelor's in Secondary Education Programs

What Grades Can You Teach With a Secondary Education Degree?


With a secondary education degree, you can teach middle school grades 6-8 and high school grades 9-12, depending on your state's requirements. Secondary education jobs at the high school level typically require professionals to have expertise in teaching one particular academic subject, such as English, math, science, or social studies.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Secondary Education Degree?


A secondary education degree typically requires the completion of about 120 credit hours, including one or two semesters of classroom teaching experience. Most full-time students are able to fulfill these requirements in four to five years, but part-time students may need additional time.

Is a Secondary Education Degree Worth It?


If you're looking for a rewarding career working with young adults, a degree in secondary education is worth it. According to an ongoing survey of more than 17,500 secondary education teachers, professionals rate their job satisfaction at 3.4 out of 5 stars. However, there are a few potential drawbacks, including modest salaries and limited resources for use in the classroom.

Is Secondary Education Hard?


Depending on each student's strengths and motivation, a secondary education degree program may be more challenging for some than others. You'll be required to take courses in two major areas — teaching and the subject you plan to teach. You'll also need to develop skills in speaking to a group, listening, instructing, and planning.

Bottom Line

Getting an education degree online can be rewarding and satisfying. If you're interested in teaching middle school and high school students, pursuing a bachelor's degree in secondary education may be the right choice for you. With additional graduate education, you'll be qualified for a variety of career opportunities as a superintendent, principal, education administrator, and more.

Related Articles

2023 Best Online Master's Degrees in Education

Are you interested in earning an online master's degree in education? Find the best master's degrees in education from our 2023 list of accredited online schools.

By OnlineU Staff Writers | 6/12/2023

2023 Best Online Master's Degrees in Secondary Education

Compare colleges that offer the best online master's programs in secondary education in 2023 based on alumni salary data. Find the best online master's program for you.

By OnlineU Staff Writers | 6/12/2023

2023 Best Online Education Degrees

Explore our 2023 list of the best online education degrees at the bachelor's level. All online schools listed are accredited.

By OnlineU Staff Writers | 3/16/2023

ADVERTISEMENT

Start Your Online College Search:

Review schools that align with your career aspirations.