Master's Degree in Education - Secondary Education
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A master's program in Secondary Education leading to teaching certification is ideal for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree and want to become licensed secondary school teachers in either English or social studies.
Program Overview
The Master’s Program in Secondary Education at the University of Kentucky prepares future educators to become certified teachers for middle and high school classrooms. Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a related content area such as English or social studies, this program combines advanced coursework in teaching methods, curriculum development, and classroom management with hands-on field experiences. Students will gain the skills and confidence needed to create engaging, inclusive learning environments that support adolescent development and academic success. Whether you are beginning your career in education or making a professional transition, this program offers a direct path to teaching certification and a rewarding future as a secondary educator.
Secondary Education with Initial Certification (MIC) (M.A.) – includes initial teaching certification options in:
- Secondary English
- Secondary Social Studies
The Master of Arts in Secondary Education with Initial Certification (MIC) at the University of Kentucky is an intensive one calendar-year program of 31 credit hours which leads to both a master’s degree and initial teacher certification in Kentucky. This full-time program includes a number of required courses designed to immerse students in the educational methodologies needed to become a teacher at the secondary level. Students also complete a fall practicum experience and a spring student teaching experience.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
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Summer
- 04/18/2026
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
