Dream of making a difference in the classroom? For over 100 years, Northern State University has been shaping passionate, skilled educators ready to inspire the next generation. Our Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)-accredited teacher preparation programs provide you with high-quality education and training that meets national standards. If you're ready to become a teacher, there's no better place—at Northern, we ARE teacher education!
Shape the future—become a secondary teacher at Northern State University!
Are you ready to inspire the next generation? At Northern State University, our secondary education program is designed for students who want to make a real impact. Our curriculum is built around real-world teaching experiences and hands-on learning, guided by faculty who’ve been where you want to go—right in the classroom. You'll graduate fully certified to teach your content area in grades 5-12, equipped with the skills and confidence to lead and inspire your future students.
You’ll dive into field experiences early and often, gaining the skills and confidence to lead your own class one day. If you're passionate about your subject and eager to help others reach their potential, Northern’s Secondary Education program is the place for you!
Offered Online and Hyflex
120 Credit Hours
Estimated Time to Complete: Four Years
Sample Coursework
Educational Psychology
Child and Adolescent Development
South Dakota Indian Studies
Field Experience
7-12 Student Teaching
School Law and Ethics for Educators
Classroom Management
Classroom Technology
Related Minors
Coaching
E-learning
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Reading
English as a New Language
Mathematics in Elementary Education
Music for Elementary Education
Special Education
Similar Programs
Art Education
Elementary Education
Music Education
Physical Education
Social Science Education
Special Education
Early Childhood Education (AS)
English
Dual Degree Pathway
Discover the best of both worlds with our dual degree program at Northern!
Why choose between a content degree and an education degree when you can have both? Our dual degree program offers the perfect solution for future secondary teachers who want to excel in both subject expertise and teaching mastery. This unique 120-credit pathway allows students to earn a Bachelor of Arts or Science in their chosen content area while simultaneously completing a Bachelor of Science in Education, ensuring you graduate with deep knowledge and exceptional pedagogical skills.
You’ll graduate with the best of both worlds—serious expertise in your content area and the skills to inspire the next generation. This program isn’t just about teaching; it’s about unlocking tons of career opportunities! From secondary teaching to creating educational content, working in school leadership, tutoring or even going on to grad school—the possibilities are endless.
If you want a future where you can make a difference, explore your passion and keep your options wide open, this is the program for you!
Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway
Earn your degree while you work with NSU’s secondary teacher apprenticeship pathway!
The teacher apprenticeship pathway for secondary education at Northern State University is designed for dedicated paraprofessionals who are ready to take the next step in their careers while continuing to work full-time in schools. This flexible program offers content specializations in Biology, Chemistry, English, General Science, History, Math or Social Science, empowering you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a licensed secondary education teacher. Through a blend of online coursework, hands-on classroom experience and personalized support, our pathway allows you to seamlessly transition from paraprofessional to a certified teacher, all while maintaining your current role.
Scholarships for Secondary Education
At NSU, we are committed to supporting future educators through a variety of scholarship opportunities for special education students. You may qualify for the TEACH Grant, designed for those pursuing teaching in high-need fields or low-income areas, or the Critical Needs Scholarship, which addresses the demand for teachers in shortage areas. These are stackable with NSU’s guaranteed WolfPACT Unleashed scholarship program, allowing you to maximize your financial aid and reduce the cost of your education. You may also qualify for additional School of Education scholarships, providing even more support as you prepare for your teaching career.
Get Involved on Campus
Build skills outside the classroom and get involved with the Aberdeen community with clubs and organizations.
