Master’s in Secondary Education Online Degrees
Create Learning Experiences That Capture Interest and Encourage Growth
Whether you're a current educator or someone interested in entering the field of teaching, a master’s in secondary education online degree offers the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact. These programs cover key areas such as curriculum design, classroom management and adolescent development, helping you prepare to create engaging and effective learning experiences. With a focus on modern teaching strategies and educational theory, you have the opportunity to lead with confidence and shape the future of secondary education.
"When students come to GCU, they’re around faculty who really care. At GCU, people care about each other. The barriers to learning simply fall away here because of the kindness and the mission of GCU."
"When students come to GCU, they’re around faculty who really care. At GCU, people care about each other. The barriers to learning simply fall away here because of the kindness and the mission of GCU."
Explore MEd in Secondary Education Degrees at GCU
Earning your master's degree in secondary education can help you open the door to a variety of career opportunities in teaching and educational leadership. GCU offers several options for educators seeking to specialize and advance their knowledge in secondary education. Whether you're interested in curriculum development or a specific subject area, our programs are designed to help you enhance your expertise in the field of education.
Initial Teacher Licensure Pathway
You may choose the licensure version of a secondary education master's program to help enhance your teaching skills and work toward becoming a licensed secondary education teacher (grades six through 12). This option may be ideal for those seeking to earn a teaching certificate through a combination of coursework, practical field experience and state exams. Pursuing the licensure track can help prepare you to meet certification requirements and provide the opportunity to actively contribute to the educational field. It's important to consider the specific certification requirements for your state as you plan your path.
Non-Licensure Pathway
Students may choose the non-licensure version of a secondary education master's program to advance their knowledge and skills without the requirements of teacher certification. This option may be ideal for educators or professionals who want to deepen their understanding of educational theory, research and teaching strategies without pursuing licensure.
Similar Programs Available to Nevada Residents
For Nevada residents, similar master's programs in secondary education are available, offering specialized emphases such as humanities education and STEM education. These programs are designed to align with state certification requirements in Nevada and can help prepare you for various teaching and leadership roles within Nevada schools. Additionally, they offer an Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) for teaching candidates in Nevada.
Earn Your Degree From an Accredited University
GCU is an institutionally accredited university that prioritizes academic quality across all our colleges and programs. The Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Education shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Additionally, Grand Canyon University is a member in good standing with the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Graduate Admission Requirements
Master’s in Secondary Education Online Coursework
In GCU's online master's in secondary education programs, you’ll explore essential topics in educational theory and practice, with coursework that can be completed from almost anywhere, allowing you to balance your current responsibilities. The program is taught by knowledgeable faculty and offers the flexibility to manage both work and your education.
Effective teaching strategies can help students enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving and retention skills. By implementing proven methods, educators can create a more inclusive and engaging classroom that motivates students to flourish. These strategies not only boost academic performance but can also foster a lifelong love of learning.
Key subjects taught include the following:
Technology integration
Curriculum development
Modern teaching strategies
Classroom diversity and inclusion
Education fundamentals for grades 6-12
Inquiry-based and project-based learning
Assessment and student outcomes
Career Paths for Master’s in Secondary Education Graduates
If you wish to specialize in education for grades 6-12, you can explore a variety of opportunities depending on your specific interests and focus areas. Education courses are intended to enable professionals to develop strong competencies in teaching methodologies and strategies. With a foundation of secondary education skills, you may set yourself up to pursue state licensure or certification as a junior or high school educator.
Teacher licensure is a requirement for all aspiring public school teachers, and it may be preferred in private school settings as well.(See disclaimer 1) In addition, some states require practicing, licensed teachers to acquire a master’s degree in education after they have already begun working as educators.(See disclaimer 1)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking to enter the field of education at the secondary level, review some frequently asked questions and answers about our MEd in Secondary Education to gain more insight into this career path.
Can I specialize in a specific subject area within a master's in secondary education program?
What is the difference between secondary education degrees that lead to initial teacher licensure and those that do not?
Is a Master of Education in Secondary Education worth it?
Student Resources
No matter your specialization, you will have access to support and resources throughout your master’s in secondary education program. Whether studying online or on campus, you can take advantage of a variety of resources tailored to your specific field of interest, with additional support from our College of Education to help enhance your academic and professional development.
Make a difference in students' lives — earn your master's in secondary education at GCU and help inspire the next generation of learners.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Aug. 29). How To Become a High School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Dec. 11, 2024.