Bachelor’s in Secondary History & Government Education at KU

Undergraduate Research Award Recipient Paul Fowler III researching African American population in Lawrence during the depression in the Spencer Research Library.

Program Overview

The bachelor's degree in secondary history and government teacher education at the University of Kansas prepares individuals to teach in both middle school and high school classrooms. History and government is also commonly known as social studies. The teacher education program combines history, political science, and geography courses and professional education coursework with multiple field experiences in 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 have fulfilled the requirements for the degree as well as the requirements for an initial teaching license for 6th through 12th grade in Kansas. The bachelor's degree in secondary history and government prepares students to work as teachers in the classroom, as well as with other education-related organizations. Potential position titles after graduation could include:

  • History and government teacher
  • Middle or high school instructor
  • Extracurricular activities sponsor

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

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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.
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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

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Joseph R. Pearson Hall
School of Education & Human Sciences
Joseph R. Pearson Hall , Rm. 221
1122 West Campus Rd.
Lawrence , Kansas 66045-3101
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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