Secondary Education as a Second Major

Students develop practical teaching skills through hands-on methods courses that transform subject-area knowledge into engaging, meaningful instruction across English, mathematics, science and social studies. Coursework emphasizes collaboration, lesson design, teaching practice and reflection to prepare candidates for effective classroom instruction. Students also learn to support diverse learners by implementing research-based ESL strategies, partnering with families of multilingual learners and differentiating instruction to meet the needs of students with exceptionalities, creating inclusive learning environments where every student can succeed.

Candidates complete extensive field experiences that connect coursework with classroom practice. During the fall semester, students spend a minimum of 60 hours in local schools before progressing to a 15-week, full-time student teaching placement in the spring. These experiences provide opportunities to apply instructional strategies, engage with students and develop a professional teaching identity.

All students who successfully complete our second major in education (6-12) 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 earn 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.

The School of Education automatically considers students for available scholarships. Students will be notified directly if they are awarded a scholarship. Please contact Financial Aid if you have questions about your financial aid package as a current undergraduate student or incoming transfer student.

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.