Bachelor’s in Secondary History & Government Education at KU

KU students are interacting with each other in a joyful and happy manner

Program Overview

The bachelor's degree in secondary history and government education, also known as social studies, at the University of Kansas prepares individuals to teach in middle school and high school classrooms. The teacher education program combines history, political science, and geography courses and teacher education coursework with multiple field experiences across secondary grade levels and diverse communities.

Career Outcomes in History & Government Teacher Education

Students who graduate with a bachelor's degree in secondary history and government education from the University of Kansas will be eligible for an initial teaching license for 6th through 12th grade social studies in Kansas. Our alumni work in many roles, including:

  • Middle and high school teachers
  • University faculty in history and Indigenous studies
  • Museums
  • Secondary school leadership
  • Business, insurance, and sales

The history and government 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

Special education

Students who successfully complete this program at KU may be eligible to take advantage of a provisional licensure endorsement in special education.

TESOL opportunities

Students who successfully complete this program at KU may be eligible to take advantage of a licensure endorsement in TESOL.

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 history and government 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