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English/Language Arts Education (Grades 6-12)

Program Info

Degree Type:
Undergraduate
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(800) 414-5756
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Teach What You Love with TROY's English Education Degree

Do you want to help students find their voice through literature and writing and explore language through stories? ߲ݴý University's Bachelor of Science in Education in Secondary English/Language Arts Education (Grades 6–12) gives you the knowledge and classroom experience to do just that. As an English education major, you'll sharpen your skills in grammar, composition, linguistics and literary analysis while preparing to teach your future students everything from young adult novels to journalism and theater. With support from TROY's expert faculty and practical teaching experience, you'll graduate ready to teach and prepared to make a difference in grades 6–12 classrooms.

Hawkins Hall at ߲ݴý University
“The ELA Program at TROY not only prepared me to teach students but empowered me to teach with the same excellence that my professors modeled for me. In every single course, the English department staff I had took care to help me craft skills to be the best teacher I could be. They made sure I was over-equipped for the job and as marketable as possible. It was a blessing to be a part of a program that wanted to see me succeed. I can say confidently that the ELA Program at TROY went above and beyond to prepare me for my career.”
Hailey Alcathie | 9th and 10th Grade English Teacher, Daphne High School | 2025 graduate, B.S.Ed. in Secondary English Language Arts Education

An ELA Degree That Prepares You to Teach All Areas of English

Teaching English language arts (ELA) requires a wide range of expertise. You'll need to know how to help students understand classic and modern literature; connect with reading, writing and communication; and think critically. At TROY, you'll be able to acquire that expertise and also take classes in more specific areas, including youth theatre and directing, speech and oration, linguistics, journalism, publishing and more. This curriculum prepares you to teach not only general English courses but also electives and extracurriculars such as drama, yearbook, debate, creative writing or screenwriting. Whether you plan to teach in a rural school, urban district or private academy, you'll graduate ready to teach and support students as they grow as readers, writers and thinkers.




An English Education Major Close to Home — or Online

You can prepare for English teacher jobs on either the ߲ݴý or Dothan Campus — choose the one that best fits your goals and lifestyle. On the ߲ݴý Campus, you'll study in a vibrant college-town environment where you can connect with peers who share your passion for language and literature and build skills that enrich your teaching. The Dothan Campus offers a welcoming, professional setting ideal for students balancing school, work and family. If you live out of state or prefer to study off campus, TROY now offers an online English education degree for additional flexibility and convenience. No matter which location you choose, you'll benefit from small classes, supportive faculty and an education that prepares you to make a lasting impact in the classroom.

English Education Degree Curriculum

As an English education major at TROY, you'll learn alongside others who share a love of literature and writing. You'll gain a foundation in subjects like American, British and world literature; fiction and poetry writing; genre fiction; and literary criticism. You'll also take courses on teaching methods and learning theories, classroom management and curriculum design with other education students. Then, you'll blend the two fields through teaching practicums, internships and student teaching in actual classrooms. While specific courses may vary from year to year, your coursework may include:
Degree Map

English/Language Arts Education Academic Catalogs

Students seeking Alabama teacher certification should complete the English major and the required courses for language arts, in addition to selecting education as a second major. Students should consult their advisers concerning all certification requirements.


English/Language Arts Program Locations

Build teaching skills through face-to-face learning on the ߲ݴý or Dothan Campus, or earn your English education degree online. For more information about program availability and delivery, call 1-800-414-5756.

Graduate Prepared for Alabama Teaching Certification

As an English education major at TROY, you'll prepare to earn certification to teach English to grades 6–12 in Alabama. You'll also have the foundation you need to apply for certification in other locations. TROY's program is built around Alabama's teaching certification requirements, including extensive classroom experience, to ensure you're ready to start your career immediately after you graduate. ߲ݴý University currently boasts an incredible for the Educative Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA), which is required for teacher certification in Alabama and many other states.

Teacher discussing classwork with a TROY student

Land English Teacher Jobs in Grades 6–12

With a Bachelor of Science in Education in Secondary English/Language Arts Education from TROY, you'll be qualified for English teacher jobs at both the middle and high school levels in public, private and charter schools. This degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in education, English or related fields. The average English teacher salary varies by district and experience level, with opportunities to increase earnings through advanced degrees or additional certifications. You may also pursue related roles such as literacy specialist, instructional support staff or yearbook and publications advisor.

Faculty Profiles

Dr. Theresa Johnson

Dr. Theresa Johnson

Dr. Theresa Johnson is an associate professor of English and serves as the supervisor for ELA and graduate Alt-A interns. She teaches world literature, theory and practice of composition, sociolinguistics and more. She also serves as the advisor for English language arts majors and TESOL minors.
Dr. Joseph Johnson

Dr. Joseph Johnson

Dr. Joseph Johnson is the chair of the Teacher Education Department at TROY. Dr. Johnson is TROY's leader for edTPA preparation and has more than 13 years of experience teaching in secondary schools and 13 more in higher education. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and teaches undergraduate and graduate student teaching seminars.

English Education Degree Scholarships

Support to Help You Earn Your Bachelor's Degree in English Education

TROY helps make your English teaching degree more affordable through scholarships geared specifically toward future teachers. Awards such as the , the , the and the support education majors who demonstrate academic promise and financial need.

FAQ About the English/Language Arts Education Program

Learn more about the field of English/language arts education and our program.
What can I do with an English education degree from TROY?
An English teaching degree from TROY prepares you for certification to teach English and language arts classes to students in grades 6–12. Our graduates often go on to become middle or high school English teachers, literacy specialists or journalism and theater instructors. You may also choose to work at an education-focused nonprofit, an EdTech company or in adult education. The program also lays the groundwork for graduate study in education, English or related fields.
How long does it take to become an English teacher?

At TROY, it typically takes four years of full-time study to complete the B.S.Ed. in secondary English/language arts education. This includes coursework in English content areas, education theory and classroom teaching experience.

What is the average English teacher salary?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, middle school teachers earn a median annual wage of about $62,9970, and high school teachers earn around $64,580 as of May 2024. English teacher salaries typically fall within this range and may increase with experience, advanced degrees or added responsibilities. An English teacher salary also varies by state and school district, and whether you teach at a private or public school.

How do I start a career as an English teacher?
To start your career in English education as a secondary school teacher in the U.S., there are two primary paths. One way is to enroll in a secondary education program specific to English language arts instruction like TROY's. This English teaching degree will cover both the education and teaching aspects you'll need for your career, providing a strong foundation in literature, writing and literary analysis. Another common route to becoming an English teacher is to obtain a bachelor's degree in English and then follow it up with a teacher certification program or a master's degree in secondary education.
What will I learn in TROY's English education degree program?

You'll study grammar, composition, linguistics, adolescent literature and advanced writing. The program also includes training in teaching English language arts, journalism and theater. You'll gain hands-on experience through field placements and a semester-long internship in a real classroom.

Is TROY's English education degree a good fit if I want to become an English teacher?

Yes. If you're exploring how to become an English teacher, this degree offers a clear path toward certification, real-world teaching experience and preparation for your career. Whether you plan to teach literature, writing, journalism or theater, TROY helps you get classroom-ready.

News

߲ݴý University making several education programs available to meet the demands of online students.

߲ݴý University Expands Online Undergraduate Education Programs

߲ݴý University's College of Education and Behavioral Sciences expands access to teacher preparation programs by offering several undergraduate education degrees fully online.

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