An online associate degree in secondary education may provide students with the skills and knowledge required to teach students from grades 6-12. In this two-year program, students may learn how to assist with instruction, work with students with special needs, and conduct small group reinforcement lessons. Program coursework may consist of general education requirements as well as major classes including principles of education, education psychology, and classroom management.

Upon graduation, students may either seek entry-level employment or pursue a baccalaureate degree in secondary education. Associate-level graduates may seek employment in various educational settings including public and private schools, charter school districts, and faith-based school systems.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 15% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for associate-level secondary education degree programs may include a handful of general education requirements alongside major-specific courses. These courses may focus on classroom management, class records management, and adolescent teaching methods. Core secondary education courses may include the following:

• Principles of Education
• Learning Theory
• Classroom Management
• Educational Philosophy
• Introduction to Educational Technology
• Adolescent Development
• Education Psychology

Career Options

Associate-level graduates may seek employment in public schools, private schools, charter schools, faith-based education settings, and magnate schools. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, teaching assistant employment opportunities are projected to increase by 15% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Teaching Assistant
• Paraprofessional
• Teacher’s Aide
• Private Tutor
• Library Assistant

Continuing Education

Those who successfully complete an associate degree program in secondary education may wish to continue their education by transferring their credits to a baccalaureate program. A bachelor’s degree in secondary education may allow students to specialize in a particular subject area while obtaining state teaching licensure.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook