Online Master’s in English Education - Middle and High School | WGU

Online Master’s in English Education - Middle and High School | WGU
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Master of Arts, Teaching
English Education, Secondary
Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure
Apply Now
OVERVIEW
Impact the Lives of Students Using Your English Education Master's Degree
Already have a non-teaching bachelor’s degree but looking for a career change that will allows you to impact student lives? Let WGU help you become an English teacher.
Students will take eight professional core courses that will prepare them to handle unique educational situations and become better teachers. These courses focus on a variety of important topics including social and emotional learning, and technology and diversity inclusion in the classroom. Plus, students will get to use augmented reality experiences to give them the opportunity to practice their work before entering the classroom. These eight professional core courses are also coupled with clinical experiences to help ensure teachers are ready for their classroom. You'll be prepared to teach a wide variety of learners, working with their learning styles, and improving student outcomes and understanding.
This program will ensure you're prepared to become a licensed teacher, with a focus on English. You will learn to help students become passionate about English literature, poetry, creative writing, and language.
Note: The specific grade level you will be licensed to teach
depends on your state
Learn more about teacher certification
63% of graduates finish within
21 Months*
Put your past knowledge and experience to work. WGU lets you move more quickly through material you already know and advance as soon as you're ready. The result: You may finish faster.
*WGU Internal Data
Flexible Schedule
Tuition per six-month term is
$4,125
An affordable career change. Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. Finish faster, pay less!
Cost & Time
Average salary increase
$6,734*
Graduates of this program report an average salary increase of $6,734 after completing their WGU degree.
*WGU Internal Data
Career Outlook
Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?
Next Start Date:
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Start Dates the 1st of Every Month
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Not Sure If You Need a Teaching License?
If you aren't sure which program is right for you, or if you'll require a teaching license, you can learn more about licensure and if it's needed for your career goals.
Learn About Teaching Licenses
COURSES
English Education Courses
A curriculum designed for student success by master of education experts.
Program consists of 20 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
This online English education teaching master's degree supports your curriculum planning and classroom management skills with advanced theory and practical experience. It is nationally recognized by the
National Council for Teachers of English (NCTE).
The WGU Master's degree in Teaching, English Education (Secondary) program is an online English teaching degree that was designed (and is regularly updated) with input from the experts on our
Education Program Council
. These experts know exactly what it takes for a graduate to qualify for a teacher’s license and be successful in a career teaching students in high school.
This program comprises the following courses. You will typically complete them one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. You’ll work through each course as quickly as you can study and learn the material. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on. This means that you can finish as many courses as you're able in a term at no additional cost.
The Master's of English Education (Secondary) is a mostly online English teaching program that you will complete by studying and working independently with instruction and support from WGU faculty.
DOWNLOAD PROGRAM DETAILS
Professional Core
Learner Development and the Science of Learning
Learner Development and the Science of Learning provides WGU students with a deep understanding of the science behind learning processes. This course covers a broad spectrum of topics pertaining to the science of learning, including cognitive development, learning theories, neuroscience in education, and the impact of developmental milestones on learning. Students will explore how these concepts apply to learning environments and educational levels, from early childhood through adolescence. The course emphasizes evidence-based practices and the practical application of learning science principles, equipping students with strategies to enhance learning outcomes and learner engagement. This course aims to empower educators to create more effective, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences for all learners. Candidates will evaluate science learning theories in classrooms.
The Education Professional
The Education Professional prepares WGU students to excel in the exciting and impactful profession of being an educator. Additionally, the course addresses the importance of continuous professional development and ethical considerations in teaching through the School of Education (SOE) Professional Dispositions and Ethics. Upon completion of the course, WGU students will be equipped with the tools and insights needed to continue their professional journey of becoming effective, inspiring, and adaptive educators, capable of making a significant impact in the lives of their students and the broader educational community. Students will also start a research-based professional portfolio. (This is not a transferable course.)
Practices for Inclusive Classrooms
Practices for Inclusive Classrooms empowers educators to create more inclusive and effective learning environments. This course focuses on the principles and strategies of personalized learning, emphasizing the need to value and support the unique needs, interests, and abilities of each learner. The course provides a foundation for learner characteristics of learners with exceptionalities and other unique learning needs. This course helps candidates develop skills for partnering with parents and families, to advocate for all learners with exceptionalities, including those impacted by provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Multitiered systems of support are addressed to prepare candidates for their future classrooms as they seek to select appropriate instructional practices and interventions to best serve their learners. These factors are also addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments.
Establishing Positive and Engaging Learning Environments
Establishing Positive and Engaging Learning Environments teaches educators how to foster supportive and productive classroom climates. This course delves into the key elements that contribute to creating and maintaining a positive learning atmosphere, such as effective communication, classroom norms and routines, and positive behavior supports. Emphasizing the importance of a safe and inclusive environment, the course explores methods to promote student engagement, collaboration, and mutual respect among learners. It also addresses the role of mental well-being in learning, exploring trauma-informed and restorative practices. These factors are also addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications including case studies, Establishing Positive and Engaging Learning Environments teaches learners how to develop and sustain environments that not only enhance academic performance but also support the holistic development of students. Candidates will apply theoretical concepts to analyze a classroom environment.
Curriculum and Instructional Strategies for Meaningful Learning
Curriculum and Instructional Strategies for Meaningful Learning is a dynamic course designed for educators seeking to deepen their understanding of instructional planning and the execution of educational strategies that foster meaningful learning experiences. This course provides candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to create engaging and standards-aligned lessons that meet the needs of all learners. This course also covers a range of high-leverage instructional practices to increase student learning, engagement, and achievement. Participants will learn to utilize assessments to inform instruction, adapt teaching to accommodate all learners, and incorporate technology to enhance learning. Candidates will reflect on research-based instructional practices.
Monitoring Student Learning Through Assessment
Monitoring Student Learning Through Assessment enhances students’ skills in evaluating learner progress and educational outcomes. This course provides an in-depth exploration of various assessment techniques, including formative and summative assessments, standardized tests, benchmark assessments, progress monitoring, and alternative assessment strategies. This course teaches students to design effective assessment tools, interpret data to inform instruction, and provide meaningful feedback to learners. This course also provides a foundation of data analysis that supports educators’ need to understand data and present data to stakeholders. It also explores online and digital assessment tools. This course requires students to design an assessment based on evidence-based practices.
Technology for Instruction and Online Pedagogy
Technology for Instruction and Online Pedagogy is an innovative course designed to equip educators with the skills to effectively integrate technology in their teaching practices. The course also covers best practices for online pedagogy, assessment and feedback, collaborative learning, and the use of multimedia and interactive elements to enhance learning experiences. With a focus on practical application, educators will leave the course ready to create and facilitate compelling, high-quality online learning experiences that meet the needs of today’s learners. This course also provides a foundation for supporting digital literacy in K-12 education. In addition, this course prepares candidates to use technology to improve professional productivity and effectiveness in areas like data analysis and data representations. Candidates will apply evidence-based practices to adapt instruction to meet student needs.
Student Teaching
Student Teaching II in Secondary Education
Student Teaching II is the final part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. The course offers a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Student Teaching I, candidates receive ongoing feedback through observations and a final evaluation. This evaluation assesses activities' relevance and cultural engagement, the effectiveness of teaching each student, the ability to analyze and adjust teaching methods, and the willingness to explore new materials and methods. Successful completion of Student Teaching II is a crucial step in the licensure process, as it determines eligibility for licensure as a professional educator. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into professional development topics such as professional growth opportunities, ethical decision making, and self-care. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.
Student Teaching I in Secondary Education
Student Teaching I is the first part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. This course provides a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate and reflect upon professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies rooted in students' learning and developmental patterns. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Advanced Clinical, candidates will receive ongoing feedback through observations and evaluations. Feedback will encourage candidates to reflect on their commitment to professional practices as educators, analyze and adjust teaching methods, and explore new teaching materials and methods that are culturally relevant. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into communication and collaboration, accepting feedback, creating positive learning environments, and technology and online learning. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.
20 Courses
Program consists of 20 courses
At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.
Program Guide
Professional Portfolio
Special requirements for this program
You will complete a professional portfolio, which will include your résumé and Philosophy of Teaching Statement and serve as a way to showcase the skills you have acquired throughout your degree program and Student Teaching.
Request Info
Skills For Your Résumé
As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for.
Lesson Planning:
Designed instruction to increase motivation and enhance student learning.
Educational Assessment:
Developed well-crafted assessments tailored to address specific learning goals, enabling accurate evaluation of student progress.
Teaching:
Successfully implemented diverse instructional strategies to effectively support and enrich student learning, promoting comprehensive understanding and knowledge retention.
Differentiated Instruction:
Effectively selected strategies that support differentiated instruction for all students, ensuring that individual learning needs, abilities, and interests are met, resulting in an inclusive and effective learning environment.
Classroom Management:
Devised effective techniques to promote student organization, task focus, and academic productivity, ensuring an optimal learning environment during class.
Written Communication:
Communicated ideas with clarity and precision through written communication techniques.
“Doing my MAT and credential with WGU was by far the most affordable and efficient way I could have done it. I was able to work full time, and still complete my coursework in eighteen months. Other schools were not going to allow me to work, estimated it would take two years for the program, and were going to cost nearly three times as much. The coursework was challenging but not arduous, and the professors and staff were very supportive.”
—Kathryn
M.A. Teaching, English Education
WGU vs. Traditional Universities:
Compare the Difference
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor-led lectures at a certain time and place
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in under 2 years
Apply Now
Traditional Universities
TUITION STRUCTURE
Per credit hour
TUITION STRUCTURE
Flat rate per 6-month term
SUPPORT
Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors
SUPPORT
Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one
EXAMS
Scheduled time
EXAMS
Whenever you feel ready
SCHEDULE
Professor-led lectures at a certain time and place
SCHEDULE
Courses available anytime, from anywhere
TIME TO FINISH
Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options
TIME TO FINISH
As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in under 2 years
Apply Now
Why WGU?
You Aren't On Your Own
WGU has Program Mentors who work with you from the day you start, all the way through graduation. They help you chart your courses, answer your questions, and ensure you can go through your program. You're not alone when you choose an online degree at WGU.
HOW WE DO IT
Flexibility You Need
Students choose WGU for their online degree program because of its flexibility. Whether you already have a full-time job, have responsibilities as a parent, or just have a busy schedule, WGU can work for you.
A FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Strong Alumni Network
When you enroll in an online master's degree program at WGU, you join an impressive network of teachers. Over 19,000 students graduated from the School of Education in 2024 alone, taking their skills and impacting the educational system all around the United States.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Accredited, Respected,
Recognized™
One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.
COST & TIME
When We Say Affordable, We Mean It
By charging per six-month term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.
Apply FREE
Tuition Calculator
Pay less by completing your program faster
TOTAL COST:
YEARS
Cost Breakdown
Tuition
4,125
E-Books and Resources Fee
200
Total per 6-month term
6-month terms
Total Cost
A Master's Degree Is Within Reach
There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:
The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.
Responsible Borrowing Initiative
Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits.
Financial Aid
Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.
Scholarships
WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
A Different Way to Learn: Education Degree Programs Designed to Fit Your Life—And All the Demands on Your Time
Professional responsibilities. Family obligations. Personal commitments. At WGU, we understand schedules are tight and often unpredictable for adult students. That’s why we offer a flexible, personalized approach to how education should be. No rigid class schedules. Just a solid, career-focused online English teaching program that meshes with your current lifestyle. You'll be challenged. You'll work hard. But if you commit yourself and put in the hours needed, WGU makes it possible for you to earn a highly respected degree as a busy working adult.
REQUEST MORE INFO
"WGU has been a pleasure to work with! I recently completed my master's in teaching program and have been extremely impressed with the quality of my instructors, my program mentor, and the other WGU staff with whom I've interacted.”
—Katie
M.A. Teaching, English Education
CAREER OUTLOOK
A Master’s Degree in English Education Will Let You Put Your Passion to Work
A love of letters, literature, and language leads to an enriched life—and the crucial ability to communicate clearly is essential in an information-driven economy. Your passion for a good book, a well-crafted sentence, and a cleverly worded argument can translate to lifelong success for the students you teach. For English lovers whose bachelor's degree is in a related field—but not in K–12 education—this Master of Arts in Teaching degree program is the perfect path toward a higher degree, a teaching license, and a career you'll love.
Remember the great teachers who inspired you? You can make this same impact on the lives of your own students. If you're ready for a career change, an online English master's degree is your direct path to becoming a teacher. Change your life, and the lives of your students, by becoming an English teacher. (Grade-level eligibility will depend on your state’s corresponding license)
MORE ABOUT CAREERS
Return on Your Investment
Many WGU graduates may see an increase in income post-graduation
Average income increase in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary from all degrees. Source:
2024 Harris Poll
of 1,655 WGU graduates.
Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.
5%
Employment of all high school teachers is projected to grow by 5% from 2021 to 2031.
—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
WGU Has Alumni Teaching Across the Country
Graduates of WGU School of Education have found meaningful, rewarding teaching careers in classrooms at:
Inclusive K–12 classrooms
Middle/junior high schools
High schools
Private and charter schools
Impressive Class of Graduates
Graduates of the WGU School of Education include recipients of many professional honors, including:
Gates Millennium Scholars
Intel Grant for Mathematics and Technology
Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction Award
Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award
Association of Public Charter Schools Educator of the Year Award
ADMISSIONS
Master of Arts in Teaching, English Education Admission Requirements
To be considered eligible for enrollment into a M.A. in Teaching, English Education degree program, you must provide official transcripts that demonstrate you have earned a bachelor’s degree from a recognized, institutionally accredited (also known as regionally accredited) university AND demonstrate readiness through one of the following:
Option 1:
Content-related undergraduate or graduate degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 (or higher, depending upon your state).
Option 2:
Undergraduate or graduate degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 (or higher, depending upon your state) and 24 to 30 hours of content specific coursework, equivalent to a major.
Option 3:
Undergraduate or graduate degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 (or higher, depending upon your state), a passing score on the WGU program required basic skills test (e.g., Praxis CORE) and demonstrate content competency via one of the following pathways 1: 24 to 30 hours of content specific coursework, equivalent to a major OR 2: an undergraduate or graduate degree in a content-related area to which area of program you are seeking admission.
Students who are seeking initial teacher licensure in a bachelor’s, post-baccalaureate, or master’s program must also pass a
state-specific basic skills test
for the state in which they live as a prerequisite to
Student Teaching
. (Registering and paying for the test is the student’s responsibility.) This requirement can be met either prior to admission or before beginning the Foundations of Teaching subject area once you are in your WGU program.
WGU’s teacher licensure programs also include student teaching. You must be at least 18 years of age before you may begin the application process or participate in Preclinical Experiences and Student Teaching. You must also submit to a
criminal background check
prior to entering the classroom for this component of your program.
GENERAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Get Your Enrollment Checklist
Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.
VIEW CHECKLIST
Get Your Questions Answered
Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.
CONTACT AN ENROLLMENT COUNSELOR
Transfer Credits
TRANSFER INFORMATION
TEACHER LICENSURE
Becoming a Licensed Teacher
State-specific licensure requirements
: Each state in the U.S. has specific testing requirements that must be met or completed in addition to completing your teaching degree program at WGU. Teacher licensure requirements vary depending on state laws and may include a number of factors, such as:
Completion of a bachelor’s degree program
Submission of transcripts
Completion and clearance of a background check
Passing of required entrance exams and basic skills tests
MORE ABOUT YOUR PATH
Clinical Experiences
As part of this program, you'll participate in a wide range of in-classroom teaching experiences through at least 75 hours of in-classroom observation.
Student Teaching
To help you prepare to work in classrooms, this program includes a student teaching component. Student teaching is a full-time, supervised, in-classroom experience of a minimum of 12 to 20 weeks during which you will be hosted by an experienced teacher and observed by a Clinical Supervisor. Your host teacher will evaluate your performance based on accepted professional standards.
Learn more about teaching licensure.
WGU Certificate
You will earn a WGU certificate after completing your coursework. Certificates allow you to demonstrate mastery and
add credentials to your résumé
before you even graduate with your degree.
Transformative Technology for Inclusive P-12 Classrooms
Transformative Technology for Inclusive P-12 Classrooms
More About the M.A. in Teaching, English Education
More About This Degree
More About Teacher Licensure
Teachers with a master’s degree often qualify for higher pay and more advancement opportunities than teachers with just a bachelor’s degree. Pursuing a master’s degree is a great option for current teachers with just a bachelor’s degree who want to add to their credentials and advance further in their teaching career. A master’s degree in English can qualify you for employment or advancement in the following jobs:
Junior high school English teacher
High school English teacher
Junior college English professor
Yes, a master’s in English is absolutely worth it. Earning a degree in this field helps you gain analytical skills that could prepare you for success in many different future endeavors and careers. For instance, an English master’s degree might prepare you for law school or a rewarding career as a writer. A master’s in English teaching could prepare you for a rewarding job as an educator, helping instill in students a love of reading and literature.
A Master of Arts in English Education (also often known as a Master of Arts in Teaching English) prepares you to be an educator and teach English, often at the secondary level. You will learn how to teach English and language arts while working towards licensure and certification. A master’s degree in English education and teaching will get you ready to be an effective guide and instructor for students taking courses in language arts and English.
It depends on your state and which Teachers College program you complete, so it is best to ask your Enrollment Counselor. Typically, teachers with an elementary education license can teach anywhere from kindergarten through 8th grade, and secondary teachers in math, English, or science can teach anywhere from 5th to 12th grades. K–12 special education licenses typically enable teachers to work with students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
It depends on your state and your program, but for most Teachers College programs, Student Teaching is typically about the length of one full traditional school semester. Student teaching is a minimum of 12–20 weeks, but it can be longer in other programs.
WGU has a team that works with you to connect you with schools in your area, and with host teachers that will support you through your Student Teaching.
Your Enrollment Counselor can provide more details about your specific situation. While you can provide recommendations of a school you want to be placed in, generally, our Field Placement Office will be selecting and setting up the placement in the end.
Your Enrollment Counselor has access to an up-to-date database that tracks requirements and eligibility for all WGU programs and all US states and territories, so a conversation with your Enrollment Counselor can quickly verify this for you based on where you live and your desired program.
Ready to Start?
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