Online Graduate Secondary Education Certificate
Online Graduate Secondary Education Certificate
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Answer the call to pursue a teaching career with GCU’s graduate certificate in secondary education. This specialized program surveys knowledge and skills in teaching and curriculum development at the secondary education level. This program is intended for those looking to become a certified teacher in grades 6–12, who already hold a bachelor’s degree but do not currently hold a teaching license.(See disclaimer 1) Candidates must also have verification of employment with a school district as a teacher of record.
This post-baccalaureate secondary education certificate serves as an alternative route for obtaining a teaching license, incorporating observation requirements, mentorship, hands-on teaching experience and theoretical knowledge of pedagogy. As a graduate of this certificate program, you will be prepared to work as a teacher in a middle or high school classroom by pursuing a non-traditional path to teacher licensure with the support of your school district.(See disclaimer 1)
GCU’s Canyon L.E.A.P. to Teach Programs are exclusively offered in Arizona and only lead to Arizona state licensure.
As a student in this graduate certificate program, you are required to fulfill programmatic requirements established by the College of Education. Fulfilling all of these program requirements satisfactorily can lead to graduation and enable you to apply for your teaching license.(See disclaimer 1 )Expect to complete both coursework and hands-on field practicum experiences.
Program requirements include:
This comprehensive approach helps ensure that candidates are well-supported during every step of the pathway and are able to sufficiently develop their pedagogical skills. GCU aims to graduate teacher candidates who are fully prepared to step into the classroom and guide students toward academic success and personal growth.
Whether you are just starting your career in education or are considering a career change, it’s likely you have some questions. These frequently asked questions and answers about the graduate certificate program may be helpful as you plan your career pathway.
How do you get a secondary education certificate if you already have a bachelor's degree?
What is a secondary education graduate certificate?
Is a graduate certificate worth it?
Can you teach in secondary education without a certification?
Middle and high school teachers hold considerable responsibility, as they are tasked with nurturing the academic achievements and personal growth of individuals during a dynamic period in their development. While handling tasks such as developing lesson plans, delivering instruction, grading assignments and providing one-on-one guidance, teachers must always keep in mind their ultimate mission: to serve as an inspirational, positive influence that motivates students to live up to their true potential.
Potential job opportunities you could pursue include:
Middle school teacher
High school teacher
Median annual salary of high school teachers as of May 2024(See disclaimer 3)
Number of openings expected for high school teachers each year from 2024 to 2034(See disclaimer 4)
As a future teacher, you may have opportunities to inspire students and leave them with a lasting impression that can help shape their future success. Prepare to serve as a role model and mentor, as well as a teacher. GCU’s coursework in this graduate certificate program can help you develop strong competencies in classroom management, teaching strategies, curriculum development and more.
The graduate-level coursework within GCU’s certificate of secondary education program focuses on practical, applied strategies that fit within the modern classroom, helping to prepare you to serve culturally and socially diverse students.
Coursework in this certificate in secondary education program teaches skills and knowledge in the following areas:
Planning, delivery and evaluation of standards-based instruction
Typical and atypical development of middle and high schoolers
Realistic discipline plans for managing student and classroom behavior
Research-based methodologies to enhance literacy instruction
Development of engaging learning environments for varying ability levels
Strategies for English language learning through Structured English Immersion
This graduate certificate in secondary education follows the Canyon L.E.A.P. to Teach pathway, which is a non-traditional approach to entering the education field. This structured L.E.A.P. program aims to prepare teacher candidates to earn a secondary education certificate through an immersive learning experience that includes daytime teaching, professional development, mentor support and graduate coursework.
Offered by GCU’s College of Education, this graduate certificate program is designed to be accessible and flexible for both full-time students and working professionals. You can accelerate your pathway toward a teaching career and prepare to inspire students to achieve their full potential. GCU offers faith-integrated courses that nurture your beliefs while shaping you to serve as an ethical leader in your school system.
Accessible
Flexible
Transferable
GCU’s mission is to deliver high-quality, career-focused education that empowers our graduates to become servant leaders in their communities. GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968 — a reflection of our commitment to adhering to high academic standards. The College of Education shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
The University will accept one course of the total certificate requirements in transfer.
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the "Accreditation and Compliance/State Disclosures” link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state’s licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).
Excluding observational and practice-based experiences and student teaching.
Prepare to make an impact in the classroom. Earn your Canyon L.E.A.P. to Teach certificate of secondary education online at GCU.
