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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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Lead Classrooms with TROY's English Education Major

Do you want to help students find their voice through literature and writing? Are you ready to guide grades 6–12 learners as they explore language, stories and self-expression? èɰƵ'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. In this English education major, you'll sharpen your skills in grammar, composition, linguistics and literary analysis while preparing to teach everything from young adult novels to journalism and theater. With support from TROY's expert faculty and hands-on training, you'll graduate ready to teach and prepared to make a difference in grades 6–12 classrooms.

Hawkins Hall at èɰƵ
“The ELA Program at èɰƵ 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 èɰƵ 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

Prepare to Teach with TROY's English Education Major

To succeed in teaching English language arts, you'll need more than a love of literature. You'll need the skills to help students connect with reading, writing and communication. TROY's English education major combines focused coursework with practical training in instructional methods and classroom management. You'll study educational psychology, lesson planning and effective teaching strategies while gaining experience in real grades 6–12 classrooms. Whether you plan to teach in a rural school, urban district or private academy, you'll graduate ready to teach and prepared to support students as they grow as readers, writers and thinkers.

An English Education Major Close to Home

You can prepare for English teacher jobs on either the Troy or Dothan campus — choose the one that best fits your goals and lifestyle. On the Troy 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. No matter which campus 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

While specific courses may vary from year to year, your coursework may include:
Degree Map

Bachelor's Degree in English Education Degree Maps

English/Language Arts Program Locations

Build real teaching skills through face-to-face learning on the Troy or Dothan campus. For more information about program availability and delivery call 1-800-414-5756.

Experiences That Prepare You for Teaching English Language Arts

As an English education major at èɰƵ, you'll build the knowledge and classroom experience needed to teach reading, writing and communication effectively. Through courses focused on grammar, linguistics, literature and composition, you'll deepen your understanding of the English language and learn how to make it accessible for grades 6–12 students. You'll also gain hands-on teaching experience through field placements and internships that show you what it's really like to manage a classroom, plan lessons and support student learning. If you're exploring how to become an English teacher, TROY's program gives you the practical tools and guided experience to help you succeed.

Teacher discussing classwork with student

Careers with the TROY Bachelor's Degree in English Education

TROY's bachelor's degree in English/language arts education will prepare you to teach grades 6-12. Because of the highly valued writing, editing and communication skills you gain through your English degree, you could also work in a wide range of positions in most any industry. 

Beyond becoming an English teacher at the middle and high school levels, you can work in a variety of other roles including: 
  • Literacy instructor
  • ELL teacher
  • Tutor
  • Marketing associate
  • Copywriter
  • Public relations specialist
  • Technical writer
  • Editor

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 èɰƵ. 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 Succeed

TROY helps make your education more affordable through scholarships created specifically for 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?
With TROY's bachelor's degree focused on English/language arts education, you'll be certified to teach grades 6–12. Our graduates often go on to become middle or high school English teachers, literacy specialists or journalism and theater instructors. 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 èɰƵ, it typically takes four years of full-time study to complete the B.S.Ed. in secondary English/language arts education (grades 6–12). 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 $64,990, 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.

What's the demand for middle school English teacher jobs?

Middle school English teacher jobs remain in steady demand across the U.S., especially in districts seeking certified teachers in core subject areas like English language arts. TROY's program prepares you to meet certification requirements in Alabama and equips you with the skills to teach in a range of classroom settings.

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.

How does TROY's program support students interested in teaching English language arts?

TROY's English/language arts education degree is designed for those who want to make an impact by teaching grades 6–12. The program blends subject-area expertise with education coursework and mentorship, giving you practical tools for classroom success.

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

Troy's English degree provides skills that are highly valued for a range of roles in the public, private, nonprofit, business and government sectors.

What Can You Do with an English Degree?

While some college degrees prepare you for specific job titles and careers, an English degree provides skills that are highly valued for a range of roles in the public, private, nonprofit, business and government sectors.

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