Mercy College

What you'll study

The programme blends a strong content core in English with professional education courses and progressively longer field experiences. Early study focuses on British, American and world literatures, composition and rhetoric, and language studies; later terms emphasise pedagogy, adolescent literacy and assessment.

• Core English topics: survey courses in British and American literature, contemporary and world literatures, literary theory, advanced composition and research methods, and courses in grammar and linguistics for teachers.
• Adolescence education courses: adolescent development and learning, methods for teaching English language arts, classroom management, curriculum design for grades 7–12, content-area literacy, and differentiated instruction for diverse learners.
• Assessment and technology: classroom assessment and evaluation, standards-based grading, educational technology for secondary English, and using digital media to teach reading and writing.
• Practicum and student teaching: supervised practicum placements in local middle and high schools leading to a full-time student teaching semester in Grades 7–12, accompanied by seminars and a capstone/portfolio demonstrating teaching competence.
• Electives and enrichment: options such as young adult literature, creative writing workshops, bilingual or ESOL methods, and special topics in literacy or literary studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a high-school diploma or equivalent. Typical entry expectations include satisfactory secondary-school grades with strength in English and humanities subjects, and submission of official transcripts and academic references. Some applicants present standardized test scores where applicable; others are assessed holistically.

• Successful completion of prerequisite English courses at high school level (or college equivalent) is recommended.
• A personal statement outlining your interest in teaching adolescents and prior experience working with young people (paid or voluntary) is typically requested.
• For progression into the professional phase and student teaching, candidates must meet Mercy College requirements for background checks, health clearances (for example immunisation or TB screening where required), and any state-mandated fingerprinting or certification checks.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview or teaching demonstration as part of the programme admission or placement process.
• Note: initial teacher certification is regulated at state level. Candidates should consult Mercy College’s Office of Teacher Education and the relevant state education authority to confirm specific certification exams and additional licensure requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to seek teaching certification and employment as English teachers in middle and high schools. Career paths commonly followed include:

• Secondary English teacher (Grades 7–12) in public or private schools.
• Reading or literacy specialist roles, after additional certification or graduate study.
• Curriculum coordinator, instructional coach or teacher-leader positions within school districts.
• Related education roles such as academic advisor, educational consultant, tutor, or positions in educational publishing and non-profit literacy organisations.
• Further study at master’s level in education, literacy, curriculum and instruction, or content-area graduate study leading to advanced certification and leadership roles.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a programme designed to connect content knowledge with classroom practice. Small class sizes and faculty who have experience in PK–12 settings mean students receive practical mentoring and feedback. The college’s location provides access to a wide range of partner schools for practicum and student teaching placements, including diverse urban and suburban settings that support experience with varied student populations.

• Clinical practice emphasis: early and sustained school-based experiences prepare candidates for the realities of secondary classrooms.
• Certification support: dedicated advising and a licensure office help students navigate state requirements and teacher-certification processes.
• Professional development: opportunities for workshops, local school partnerships and networking with practising teachers help graduates transition into employment.
• Student support: academic advising, writing support, and career services help students develop both subject expertise and the professional skills needed for teaching careers.