Social Studies Secondary Education

About the social studies secondary education major

Social studies secondary education majors develop skills and knowledge in areas that include history, geography, government, sociology, and economics. You'll be able to apply what you learn through methods of teaching and learning with children from grades 5 through 12. 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: cultural competency, teaching, problem solving, lesson planning, and inclusivity (formerly IUPUI 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
  • Examining self as teacher
  • Field experience
  • Indiana history
  • Survey of economic issues and problems
  • Teaching and learning in high school
  • Teaching students with special needs
  • Using computers in education

Possible careers

  • Adult literacy teacher
  • Education administrator*
  • Guidance counselor*
  • Instructional coordinator
  • Museum curator
  • Museum program coordinator
  • Nonprofit manager

*These careers require additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • Carmel Clay Schools
  • Indiana Historical Society
  • IPS
  • IU Indianapolis
  • Newfields
  • Nonprofits
Get your interest code

Where to get more information

School of Education–IU Indianapolis

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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