Why Earn Your Secondary Education - Social Science Degree at Saint Leo University?
As a social studies teacher at the secondary level, you’ll help youth navigate a vast world of people and cultures—to arrive at a better understanding of their place in society. You’ll show them the value of having a voice in government, knowing their roots, and working for the welfare of others.
Learn innovative methods to teach history, geography, government and economics, with an emphasis on a multicultural and pro-social education. Develop lesson plans that encourage curiosity and a welcoming classroom environment—then apply them as a student teacher.
This program is offered:
Campus
The secondary education major engages students in a combination of courses in the Arts and Sciences and in the Education Department. Students choose one area of specialization from the following content areas: English or Social Science. The Secondary Education Program meets the Florida State standards and coursework requirements for graduates to obtain teaching certification. Secondary education majors are required to take the Subject Area Exam for grades 6-12 of the Florida Teacher Certificate Exam.
The Saint Leo Secondary Education Program has been designed to align with the Florida Department of Education competencies and skills for teacher education preparation programs.
Est. Time to Complete:
4 years
Credit Hours:
120 hours
Undergraduate Secondary Education - Social Science Program Details
In 2011, Saint Leo’s Education department was named a national finalist for the Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award. And, according to a recent survey, between 92-98% of school principals who've had a Saint Leo graduates as first-year teacher at their school report that they'd provide a positive recommendation for rehiring.
You may declare the Secondary Education major when you begin coursework at Saint Leo University. However, to be formally admitted to the program, you must complete a major application once you fulfill general education requirements.
Learn Your Way:
Online, On Campus, or Near You
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What are the on-campus facilities like?
Students who pursue their degrees at Saint Leo’s main campus near sunny Tampa Bay, Florida, join a community of enthusiastic learners just like them.
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What are the benefits of earning your degree online?
Saint Leo University’s online learning experience provides a well-rounded education with the flexibility to tailor your course of study to meet your individual needs. We know our students have lives outside school, and we seek to meet them where they are. Online students can count on receiving excellent academics as well as opportunities for hands-on learning.
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It will help me be responsive to the latest needs and issues such as gender identity, issues of technology, abuse, and the concerns of the smartphone generation. What I like is that it will teach me how to use applied theology to discuss these issues.
Fr. Rojas
Are education centers near you offering secondary education degree programs?
You may also choose to pursue your degree through one of our education centers, which merge a traditional in-person education with the flexibility to match your lifestyle. Education centers offer eight-week academic terms as well as evening and weekend classes.
Career Outlook
No matter which learning experience you choose, you will receive plenty of professional development opportunities, industry knowledge from expert professors, and support from the Saint Leo community. All this together means that you will be ready for a successful career or continued studies upon graduation.
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How will you gain real experience?
Florida Teacher Certification
Secondary Education majors are eligible to receive certification to teach grades 6-12 in your area of specialization—Social Science
Student teaching
Hone your skills through no less than four field placements, including teaching fulltime in a secondary school one semester your senior year.
Professional seminar
Prepare yourself for the job market: Create your resume, meet with school district representatives to learn about the application process, participate in mock interviews with school principals and district administrators.
21st century classroom
Discover how to enhance learning with technologies such as iPads, the MimioVote™ assessment system, interactive SMART boards and teleconferencing across the world.
Conferences
Attend at least one professional conference before graduation, such as the Florida Council for Teachers for the Social Studies.
Co-curricular activities
Participate in the Future Teachers Association and become an active member of Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society for Educators.
What can you do with an undergraduate secondary education degree?
Graduates are qualified to obtain teaching certification for grades 6-12.
What are the top secondary education degree jobs?
- History Teacher
- Social Studies Teacher
- Geography Teacher
- Civics Teacher
- Economics Teacher
Where are Saint Leo secondary education graduates now?
Our students find success as certified teachers in school districts around Florida and outside of the state, thanks to interstate agreements between the Florida Department of Education and many states.
Saint Leo graduates often assume leadership positions in their schools—as team leaders and department chairs—within three to four years of employment. Many Saint Leo graduates have been recognized as Teachers of the Year for their schools and even their entire school districts.
Student Stories
My time at Saint Leo University changed the course of my career and shaped the educator I am today. The flexibility of scheduling and the mentors you gain with the professors is invaluable. Highly recommended to those seeking to grow in their love of education.
Alyssa De Jesus ,Assistant Principal, Masters of Educational Leadership
The Master’s in Educational Leadership program at Saint Leo University thoroughly prepared me for both certification exams and the realities of the job. The online program allowed me to continue working and advancing in my field while earning my degree. The coursework pushed me to think critically, apply research to real school settings, and build practical leadership skills that I use every day. The professors are amazing! They were personable, helpful, understanding, and genuinely invested in my success, which made a rigorous program both manageable and meaningful. I loved it so much that I came back for my EdD!
Tricia Taylor
Earning my master's in educational leadership at Saint Leo University was a transformative experience. The program not only gave me the tools to lead with confidence as an assistant principal, but it also taught me the importance of collaboration and relationship-building. Working closely with peers and professors helped me grow as a leader and build connections that continue to shape how I support my school community today.
Matthew Hayes, Wesley Chapel 12th grade Assistant Principal, Pasco County School District
The Master’s in Educational Leadership Program at Saint Leo is more than just a career path. It was an unforgettable experience for which I’m truly grateful. The professors create a learning environment that maximizes learning, with unwavering support to all students.
Jodi Slone, 2021 graduate, Assistant Director of Safe Schools, Hernando County School District
"Saint Leo's online MBA program in Supply Chain Management provided me the opportunity for flexible learning alongside other supply chain professionals in my industry. With this MBA, I expanded upon educational and professional abilities within the field of Supply Chain Operations."
Paige Holt- MBA Student specializing in Supply Chain Management
Paige is one of our MBA students who has taken full advantage of the opportunities offered by Saint Leo's online MBA program in Supply Chain Management.
“Learning ignites my passion to seek and find information that intrigues my soul, spirit, and mind. Education at Saint Leo University has had an extremely positive influence on my life and my development as a person. It has made me more confident and enabled me to steer into my destiny. Saint Leo University has provided me with different learning experiences that has enabled me to branch out and work with people effectively. It has helped me develop a great amount of self-discipline and, aside from teaching me some very important life skills, Saint Leo University has opened many doors for my future.”
Karen Sislava Reyes - MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING
Karen came to Saint Leo from Flagler College where she earned her undergraduate accounting degree. Karen has worked as an intern for CliftonLarsonAllen. She plans on sitting for the CPA exam this year and will then pursue a doctorate degree.
News
Accreditation
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees.