Bachelor’s in Secondary English Education at KU

English professor Laura Mielke has English professor Laura Moriarty come speak to her class about Moriarty's recent novel "The Chaperone" which was recently made into a movie.

Program Overview

The bachelor's degree in secondary English teacher education at the University of Kansas prepares pre-service educators to teach adolescents in both middle school and high school classrooms. The program combines literature-based theory and knowledge with culturally diverse readings and discussions. In addition to the course offerings in the School of Education and Human Sciences, courses taught by faculty from the Department of English offer students learning options in rhetoric, linguistics and literature.

Career Outcomes in Secondary English Teacher Education

Students who graduate with a bachelor's degree in secondary English education from the University of Kansas will have fulfilled the requirements for the degree as well as the requirements to pursue an initial teaching license for 6th through 12th grades in Kansas. The bachelor's degree in secondary English prepares students to work as teachers in the classroom, as well as with other education-related organizations. Potential position titles after graduation could include:

  • Secondary (high school) English teacher
  • Extracurricular activities sponsor

The secondary English education program meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state of Kansas.

KU’s licensure programs strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information about the educational requirements for licensure in U.S. states and territories. However, regulations are subject to change and varying interpretations. In addition to possible changes in educational requirements, licensure often includes additional requirements, such as specific examinations and additional training or practicum hours. It is highly recommended that students seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency before beginning an academic program to ensure they know what is needed to obtain the license/certification/registration in the state in which they intend to practice and/or seek licensure.

Resources for licensure and certification boards outside of Kansas

Related Programs

Resources

Career Statistics

$58K salary

Graduates can expect an average salary of $58,000 in Kansas, according to the Kansas State Department of Education.
KSDE School Finance Reports

Licensure endorsements

Students at KU may be eligible to take advantage of a provisional licensure endorsement in special education or TESOL.

Dual major options

Students can pursue a dual major in both English studies and secondary English education.

Graduate study

Those who choose to pursue an advanced degree after graduation are considered for many highly-selective master's & doctoral programs across the U.S.

Thinking about secondary English education?

Let us know you’re interested in the program. We would love to connect with you to discuss the program’s curriculum, steps necessary for admission to KU, and what to expect during the professional program.
Campus Visit Campus Visit
Request Virtual Appointment Request Virtual Appointment
PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM
Program Details & Admission Requirements

Statistics

#8
Public School of Education & Human Sciences
95%
Average licensure exam pass rate

U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools,” 2025-26

More Statistics

79%
Employed in degree field
41%
Obtained further education

Student LifeView as gallery page

Joseph R. Pearson Hall
School of Education & Human Sciences
Joseph R. Pearson Hall , Rm. 221
1122 West Campus Rd.
Lawrence , Kansas 66045-3101
Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) logo

Accreditation

The KU School of Education and Human Sciences is accredited under the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Accreditation System.

Learn About Accreditation