English Secondary Education

About the English secondary education major

English education majors develop both analytical and creative thinking skills and gain many transferable skills, including attention to detail, interpreting media, and understanding how people communicate through poetry, fiction, nonfiction, film, and speaking.

You'll be able to apply what you learn through methods of teaching and learning with children from 5th through 12th grades. You'll be in the field early during your studies and will be able to start learning in actual community classrooms. This major fully equips you to teach your own class of diverse students in any urban, suburban, or rural school.

Skills and abilities this major develops: writing, critical thinking, communication, meeting deadlines, developing cultural competency, teaching, lesson planning, and inclusivity (School of Education, 2019).

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IU Indianapolis’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Student organizations

Students interested in education tend to be a passionate bunch. We're home to a number of student organizations dedicated to different facets of teaching and education.

Service learning

You can add to your built-in student teaching experience through community engagement. From service projects to conferences, you get a head start on lifelong learning.

Study abroad

Study abroad is much more than a trip—it’s an intellectual and cultural adventure that will change the way you see the world, other people, and yourself.

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Diversity and learning
  • English courses
  • Examining self as teacher
  • Field experience
  • Teaching and learning in high school
  • Teaching students with special needs
  • Using computers in education
  • Windows on education

Possible careers

  • Academic advisor
  • Adult literacy teacher
  • Education administrator*
  • Guidance counselor*
  • Instructional coordinator
  • Nonprofit management
  • Social worker*

*These careers require additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • Carmel Clay Schools
  • Community Health Network
  • Community and social services
  • Human resources
  • Indianapolis Public Schools 
  • Nonprofits
Get your interest code

Where to get more information

School of Education

National Education Association

American Federation of Teachers

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools. 

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

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