Secondary Education, MS

What can you do with an M.S. in Secondary Education?

Graduates of TAMU-CC’s Master of Science in Secondary Education are prepared to pursue:

• Certified secondary teaching positions (EC–12 or 7–12) in Texas public and charter schools
• Teaching roles in high-need subject areas and grade levels
• Long-term career pathways in instructional coaching, curriculum development, or school leadership
• Doctoral study or advanced certifications in education

Texas schools continue to face a high demand for qualified, certified teachers &mdash especially those who are classroom-ready on day one. This program is built to meet that need.

Salary & Job Outlook

Strong demand. Real opportunity. A career with staying power.

Secondary educators continue to be in high demand across Texas, particularly in middle and high school subject areas. School districts are actively seeking certified teachers who are prepared to step into the classroom with confidence and experience.

What graduates can expect

• Competitive starting salaries that vary by district, subject area, and region
• Opportunities for salary growth through experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles
• Increased demand in high-need content areas, which can improve placement opportunities
• Long-term career stability in a profession that makes a lasting impact

Many districts also offer additional stipends for coaching, advanced coursework, or specialized roles, allowing educators to expand both their impact and earning potential over time.

Teaching at the secondary level is about more than delivering content — it’s about being there when guidance matters most — when questions get bigger, confidence is tested, and students begin to discover who they are and what matters most. Whether you’re changing careers or building on your academic foundation, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi’s Master of Science in Secondary Education prepares you to step into middle or high school classrooms ready to connect, encourage, and help students see what’s possible — both in the classroom and beyond.

At TAMU-CC, you’ll find:

• Dual Purpose: Graduate with your master’s degree and Texas teacher certification.
• Flexible Formats: Evening and online coursework makes it possible to balance study with work, family, or other commitments.
• Hands-On Classroom Experience: Choose between a paid internship (two semesters) or a traditional clinical teaching semester — both paths ensure you’re classroom-ready.
• Manageable Timeline: Most students complete the program in about two years.

Want to learn more? Fill out our contact form and a graduate admissions counselor will connect with you soon.

Applying is much easier when you're supported — and at TAMU‑CC, our graduate admissions counselors are here to help.

To get started, you’ll need a bachelor's degree in any subject from an accredited institution.

Full admissions requirements

Application Deadlines

Applicant	Fall	Spring	Summer I	Summer II
Domestic Students	August 19	January 13	May 25	June 29
International Students	July 26	Dec 20	May 1	June 6

We're Here to Help

We're here to help you every step of the way. Just fill out the information request form, or contact our program administrator directly, and we'll not only make sure all your questions are answered — we'll even help you prepare your application.

Reach out to an admissions counselor Submit your application

How long does the program take to complete?

Most students finish the program in about two years, depending on course load and whether you choose the internship or clinical teaching path.

How many credit hours is the program?

The program requires 36–42 graduate credit hours, depending on certification area and your chosen field-experience pathway.

Can I work while completing the program?

Yes. Coursework is offered fully online or in the evenings, making it possible to balance school with work and personal responsibilities. Many students continue working while enrolled.

What’s the difference between clinical teaching and the internship option?

• Internship Path:

  • Two semesters

  • Often paid

  • You teach as a teacher of record while completing coursework

  • Includes seminars and university supervision

• Clinical Teaching Path:

  • One full-time semester in a classroom

  • Traditional student-teaching experience

  • Requires additional graduate coursework since clinical teaching hours do not count toward graduate credit

Both options provide extensive classroom experience and meet Texas certification requirements.

Is the internship really paid?

In many cases, yes. Internship positions are typically paid by the school district, though availability and compensation depend on district needs and placement timing.

Do I earn certification and a degree at the same time?

You will complete all requirements for Texas teacher certification and your Master of Science degree concurrently, with coursework and field experiences designed to provide comprehensive preparation for required certification exams.

Is this program only for education majors?

No. This program is designed for:

• Career-changers with a bachelor’s degree in another field

• Recent graduates ready to enter the teaching profession
  No prior teaching experience is required.

Will I be prepared to teach right away?

Yes. The program emphasizes hands-on classroom experience, mentorship, and practical coursework so you graduate confident, prepared, and classroom-ready.

What kind of support will I receive during field experiences?

You’ll receive clinical supervision from a university field supervisor, along with structured seminars and guidance throughout your internship or clinical teaching experience.

Where do graduates typically work?

Graduates teach across Texas in public and charter schools, often in districts seeking highly qualified secondary educators. Many remain in the profession long-term, advancing into leadership or specialist roles.