Utah Valley University

Programme overview

The Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education is a teacher-preparation degree focused on developing subject-area expertise together with practical teaching skills. Students complete coursework in curriculum and instruction, adolescent development, assessment, classroom management and educational technology, paired with supervised field experiences and a culminating student-teaching placement. The programme emphasizes evidence-based instructional practices, inclusive classrooms, and professional dispositions needed for licensure and employment in secondary schools.

What you'll study

Coursework typically covers a mix of content methods and professional education topics. Common themes include:

• Subject-specific methods: Strategies for teaching your chosen content area (for example, English, mathematics, science, or social studies) to adolescent learners.
• Instructional design and assessment: Designing standards-aligned lessons, formative and summative assessment, and data-informed instruction.
• Classroom management and adolescent development: Positive behavior supports, culturally responsive practice, and understanding social/emotional development in teens.
• Educational technology: Integrating digital tools to enhance learning and differentiate instruction.
• Practicum and student teaching: Progressive field placements culminating in a full-term supervised student-teaching experience.

Entry requirements

Admission requires meeting university general admission standards plus the teacher-education programme requirements. Applicants should have completed required content-area prerequisites and demonstrate academic readiness. Candidates must also satisfy professional requirements commonly associated with teacher preparation, such as background checks and health clearances, and typically complete any program-specific application steps before beginning practicum placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for licensure and employment as secondary school teachers in public and private settings. With classroom experience and additional credentials, alumni may move into roles such as department chair, instructional coach, curriculum specialist, educational consultant, or pursue graduate study in education, administration or specialized instructional areas.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students should explore institutional scholarships, departmental awards for education majors, and external scholarships for future teachers. Other funding pathways include federal and state financial aid, work-study, loan-forgiveness or loan-repayment programs tied to qualifying teaching positions, and subject-area grants or stipends for high-need fields. Early engagement with the university financial-aid office and the education department helps identify the best funding options.