Secondary Education falls under the broader field of Education, which encompasses various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, and history. This major is interdisciplinary in nature, as it combines the study of teaching methods and techniques with a deep understanding of the subject matter you aim to teach. Secondary Education focuses on preparing future educators to teach middle and high school students, typically aged 11 to 18.

Core areas of study in Secondary Education include educational psychology, teaching methods, curriculum development, and classroom management. As a Secondary Education major, you will also study the subject area you plan to teach, such as English, mathematics, science, or social studies. Potential areas of specialization include special education, bilingual education, or STEM education. In addition, you will complete field experiences and student teaching to gain practical experience in a classroom setting.

Graduates with a degree in Secondary Education can pursue careers both within and outside the education field. Within education, you may become a middle or high school teacher, instructional coordinator, or school counselor. Outside the traditional classroom setting, you could work as a curriculum developer, educational consultant, or even a corporate trainer. Additionally, Secondary Education majors can pursue careers in educational policy, research, or administration.

What sets Secondary Education apart from other majors is its focus on preparing future educators to inspire and engage middle and high school students. This major combines the study of teaching methods with subject matter expertise to create well-rounded educators. In the UK, you can study Secondary Education directly at the undergraduate level, while in the US, it is typically studied at the postgraduate level, often after completing a bachelor's degree in a related subject area.

Secondary Education majors develop a wide range of marketable, transferable, and in-demand skills. These include strong communication and interpersonal skills, as you learn to effectively convey complex ideas to students of varying ages and abilities. Additionally, you will gain problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational skills, which are essential for managing a classroom and creating engaging lesson plans. These skills are not only useful in the field of education but can also be applied to various other careers and industries.