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Teacher Education Programs for Grades 9-12

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Secondary Education Degree

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About the Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) at Missouri Southern State University prepares students for teacher certification in Missouri. The program offers accredited training in teaching methods, classroom leadership, and subject‑area expertise.

This degree is ideal for future educators who want to make a meaningful impact on high school students—often inspired by influential teachers from their own past. With strong demand for qualified teachers and certification reciprocity in many states, the BSE provides clear pathways to a teaching career.

Students can specialize in a single high‑school teaching field, including Biology, Business Education, Chemistry, English, Mathematics, Social Sciences, or Speech/Theater.

Is the Secondary Education Program Right for You?

The BSE program is designed for students who want to become certified high‑school teachers and enter a field with consistently high demand for qualified educators.

This program may be right for you if you:

  • Are interested in a teaching career at the high‑school level
  • Prefer a structured, hands‑on learning experience with real classroom practice
  • Want to earn Missouri teacher certification with reciprocity options in other states
  • Are preparing for a first career in education or planning a career change
  • Want to specialize in a subject you’re passionate about, such as Biology, English, or Mathematics

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What You'll Learn

In this program, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to become an effective high‑school teacher. 

Key learning outcomes include: 

  • Understanding core concepts and inquiry methods in your teaching field
  • Designing meaningful, engaging learning experiences for diverse students
  • Planning and evaluating curriculum aligned with standards and student needs
  • Using varied instructional strategies to build critical thinking and problem‑solving skills
  • Creating a positive, motivating classroom environment that supports active learning
  • Using assessments to guide instruction and monitor student progress
  • Communicating effectively with students, families, and colleagues
  • Reflecting on your teaching practice and pursuing ongoing professional growth

Careers with a Bachelor of Science in Education

Graduates of MSSU’s Bachelor of Science in Education enter a field with strong, ongoing demand for qualified high‑school teachers. With Missouri certification and reciprocity options in many states, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of teaching roles and educational settings.

Common Career Paths Include: 

  • High School Biology Teacher
  • High School Business Education Teacher
  • High School Chemistry Teacher
  • High School English Teacher
  • High School Mathematics Teacher
  • High School Social Sciences Teacher
  • Speech/Theater Teacher

Many graduates also add Middle School (5–9) or ELL (K–12) certification to expand their opportunities. The program’s extensive field experiences help you build connections in local schools—often leading directly to your first teaching job. You’ll also be well‑prepared for advanced study in MSSU’s graduate education programs.


Curriculum & Courses

The BSE in Secondary Education includes general education coursework, professional education classes, subject‑area preparation, and multiple clinical field experiences leading to Missouri teacher certification.

View full course lists for each emphasis area:

Program Format, Location & Schedule

Format: On‑campus program with required in‑school clinical practice
Location: Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, Missouri
Schedule: Full‑time recommended; part‑time options available
Time to Degree: Most students finish in four years of full‑time study
Clinical Practice: Multiple field experiences plus a full‑semester student teaching placement
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Faculty & Program Support

Students in the BSE program learn from experienced faculty who bring years of classroom teaching, instructional leadership, and subject‑area expertise into their courses. Throughout the program, you’ll receive personalized advising to help you stay on track for certification, clinical placements, and graduation.

You’ll also benefit from strong partnerships with local schools, where you’ll complete field experiences and student teaching under the guidance of mentor teachers and university supervisors.


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