M.A.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction – Secondary Education

The program combines rigorous coursework, mentorship and extensive classroom experience to help candidates develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to engage diverse learners. Students gain extensive hands-on teaching experience by working with K–12 students in a summer enrichment program, where they build relationships with learners and practice co-teaching alongside experienced mentor teachers. Methods courses help candidates transform their content knowledge into engaging, student-centered instruction through lesson design, collaborative teaching and reflective practice. Coursework also prepares future educators to support multilingual learners by implementing research-based ESL strategies, partnering with families and creating inclusive learning environments that meet the diverse needs of all students.

William & Mary undergraduates interested in the graduate programs in teacher education are encouraged to take EDUC F11 and EDUC F12 as an undergraduate. These undergraduate courses can be used as an exemption for the corresponding graduate classes in the master’s program.

Programs of Study

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies

Hands-on learning begins during the summer, when candidates work alongside experienced educators in enrichment programs and informal learning settings. During the fall semester, students complete at least 60 hours of field experience in local schools before progressing to a 15-week, full-time student teaching placement. These experiences provide opportunities to apply instructional strategies, receive mentorship and develop confidence as classroom teachers.

All students who successfully complete our program in Secondary Education will be eligible to apply for licensure as a Secondary Education 6-12 teacher in the selected discipline in the state of Virginia. Therefore, programs are designed for students who are not already licensed as educators in Virginia.

All teacher candidates must obtain passing scores on the Praxis subject area assessment before graduating from the education program. At William & Mary, all required licensure tests are also graduation requirements; therefore, the appropriate tests must be completed regardless of a teacher candidate’s decision to apply for a teaching license. Learn more about testing requirements.

Our most recent secondary education graduates achieved a 100% placement rate, with all securing teaching positions before or immediately upon graduation. They are now making an impact in public and private middle and high schools across Virginia and neighboring states, teaching science, mathematics, English and social studies. Many have chosen to serve in our trusted partner districts, while others have joined innovative or specialized programs that recognize the value of inclusive, student-centered teacher preparation.

Application materials include your unofficial transcript(s), personal statements, a resume/CV, and two recommendations. We encourage prospective students to begin an application, as the portal provides a clear overview of all application requirements, including the personal statement prompt.

Looking for the application deadline? See our Deadlines & Decisions page.

Students may apply for federal financial aid by completing the FAFSA. If you have questions about your financial aid package, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at finaid@wm.edu.

Because of the program’s required fieldwork, assistantships are not typically available for students in the Secondary Education program.

All applicants are automatically considered for available scholarships, and recipients will be notified directly if selected for an award.*

*There is an application process for Math/Science students who would like to be considered for the Noyce Scholarship program.

Teachers in Residence

Some students participate in residency agreements with partnering school districts offer paid opportunities that allow candidates to complete their practicum and student teaching experiences while earning compensation. Learn more on our Teachers in Residence page.

Noyce Scholarship Program

The W&M Noyce Scholars Program supports people on their journeys to become mathematics and science teachers for grades 6-12. The Noyce program provides opportunities for students to explore their interest in teaching, as well as scholarships of up to $26,000 per year in exchange for teaching in a high-need school district after earning their teaching certification. Access the Noyce Scholars application.