Fitchburg State offers programs that allow students majoring in History, English, Biology, Chemistry, Math, General Science, and Technology/Engineering to pursue initial licensure as middle and high school teachers. These programs aim to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both teaching methodologies and subject matter expertise. Students engage in field-based experiences in the school setting supervised by our faculty through on and off-site pre-practicum experiences coupled with each teaching course and a formal teaching practicum as the capstone experience. This hands-on approach ensures that students gain practical skills and knowledge to excel in their future teaching careers.
Those interested in pursuing initial teacher licensure to teach in a middle school or a high school have to complete a concentration in the subject area. For example, future English teachers would complete an English 5-12 Concentration in the English Studies Department.
The concentration for initial teacher licensure includes three components: a major in the content area (i.e. English Studies major), a minor in Middle and Secondary Education, and licensure coursework (i.e. state-required coursework and field experiences).
Benefits of earning your middle/high school secondary education degree at Fitchburg State
Specialized knowledge: Pursuing a degree in middle/secondary education equips you with specialized knowledge and skills needed to effectively teach and engage students in the middle and high school levels. You will gain a deep understanding of the subject matter you plan to teach, as well as strategies for effective instruction and classroom management.
Career opportunities: With a middle/secondary education degree, you can pursue a career as a middle or high school teacher. This degree opens up opportunities to work in public or private schools, both domestically and internationally. Teaching is a rewarding profession that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of young learners.
Professional growth: Earning a degree in middle/secondary education demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and development. It shows potential employers that you have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to be an effective educator. This can lead to increased job prospects and potential for advancement in your teaching career.
Personal fulfillment: Teaching middle or high school students can be incredibly fulfilling. You have the opportunity to inspire and shape the minds of young individuals, helping them develop academically, socially, and emotionally. Witnessing the growth and success of your students can bring a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment.
Lifelong learning: Education is a field that constantly evolves, and earning a middle/secondary education degree is just the beginning of your learning journey. As an educator, you will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, allowing you to stay updated with the latest teaching methods, technologies, and educational research.
Middle/High School Secondary Education
Content areas History, English, Biology, Chemistry, Math, General Science, and Technology/Engineering. Please refer to the link associated with your area of interest/content area for more information.
History
Pursue this concentration and gain the skill set to become a middle or high school history teacher.
English
The middle and secondary education concentration develops knowledgeable, skillful, caring, and ethical English educators.
Biology
Students with gain both a broad introduction to high school teaching and specific instruction in the theory, research and practice of secondary science teaching.
Chemistry
This concentration prepares you to be a high school chemistry teacher.
Mathematics (5-8)
You can pursue initial licensure as a middle school math teacher.
Mathematics (8-12)
You can pursue initial licensure as a high school math teacher with a secondary education degree.
General Science
This concentration prepares you to be a middle school teacher in the basic natural sciences, including physics, earth and geographic sciences, biology, and chemistry.
Technology/Engineering
This concentration will prepare you with knowledge and skills essential for teaching in a public school setting, grades 5-12.
Accreditation
Fitchburg State University is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The programs listed here have been awarded full accreditation by AAQEP through December 31, 2030. Accreditation acknowledges that a program prepares effective educators who continue to grow as professionals and has demonstrated the commitment and capacity to maintain quality.
Next Steps
- Get started with the admissions process
- Apply online
- Visit campus
- Contact undergraduate admissions - admissions@fitchburgstate.edu or call 800.705.9692 or 978.665.3144