Below is a template that outlines the typical course progression for this major. Actual progression may vary based on factors such as AP/IB credits, dual enrollment, transfer credits, individual academic readiness. A College of Education academic advisor will help develop a path to graduation that is best suited for you.
Secondary English Education (B.A.E.)
What can you do with this degree?
Our program prepares you to teach English and language arts to students in grades 8–12, focusing on critical skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, digital media, and literary studies. You’ll also learn how to create engaging classroom environments that inspire adolescents to become critical thinkers, strong readers, and skilled communicators.
With hands-on, real-world experience, you'll apply your knowledge of language arts and literacy while working with middle and high school students in public school classrooms.
Graduates of our program are equipped to teach language arts and literacy using innovative methods, helping adolescent learners develop the skills and practices needed to succeed. You’ll be prepared to foster classroom environments that motivate students and encourage deep thinking, strong reading abilities, and effective communication.
Please note that the Secondary English Education major does not result in teacher certification but does prepare you for graduate study in secondary education. When you complete the B.A.E., you can apply to the Master’s with Initial Certification (MIC) English Education degree program (one calendar year) to become certified in the state of Kentucky.
Program Details
Delivery Method: On Campus, In-Person
Teacher Education Program: Teacher Certification Information
Scholarship Information: Student Scholarships and Awards
What You'll Study
Year 1
Semester 1 (15 course hours)
- UK Core Composition & Communication I: WRD 110 (3)
- UK Core Quantitative Foundations: MA 111 - Introduction to Contemporary Mathematics (3)
- UK Core Social Science: EPE 174 - The College Student (3)
- UK CORE Humanities: ENG 230 - Introduction to Literature (3)
- Communication (COM) Support Area Course (3)
Semester 2 (15 course hours)
- UK Core Composition & Communication II: WRD 111 (3)
- UK Core Global Dynamics (3)
- STA 210: Statistical Inferential Reasoning (3)
- ENG 260: Introduction to Black Writers (3) or ENG 290 - Introduction to Women’s Literature (3)
- LIN 211: Introduction to the Study of Language (3)
Year 2
Semester 3 (15 course hours)
- UK Core Natural Science (3)
- EDS 375 or EDP 203 (3)
- ENG 241: Survey of British Literature (3)
- ENG 330: Text and Context (3)
- Theatre (TA) Support Area Course (3)
Semester 4 (15 course hours)
- UK Core: Arts & Creativity (3)
- UK Core US Citizenship: EPE 301 - Education in American Culture (3)
- ENG 242: Survey of British Literature II (3)
- ENG 301: Style for Writers (3)
- Fine Arts (FA) Support Area Course (3)
Year 3
Semester 5 (15 course hours)
- ENG 251: Survey of American Literature (3)
- ENG 401: Special Topics in Writing (3)
- LIN 300-level options^ (replaces EDC/LIN 513) (3)
- Journalism (JOU) Support Area Course (3)
- Free Elective Course (3)
Semester 6 (15 course hours)
- ENG 252: Survey of American Literature II (3)
- WRD 401: Special Topics in Writing (3)
- EDC 544: Use and Integration of Instructional Media (3) or EDC 547 - Technology in Instruction Practice (3) or EDC 548 - Instructional Technology Leadership (3)
- Support Area Course (in COM, TA, Fine Arts, or JOU)
- Free Elective Course (3)
Year 4
Semester 7 (15 course hours)
- ENG 280: Introduction to Film (3)
- EDC 362: Field Experiences in Secondary Education (3)
- Support Area Course (COM, TA, FA, or JOU) (3)
- Free Elective Course (3)
- Free Elective Course (3)
Semester 8 (15 course hours)
Apply to the UK’s Graduate School and Masters in Initial Certification program
- ENG 509: Composition for Teachers (3)
- English (ENG) Literature Elective* (3)
- Free Elective Course (3)
- Free Elective Course (3)
- Free Elective Course (3)
^LIN 300-level options include LIN 310, LIN 311, LIN 317, LIN 318, LIN 325, LIN 311
*English (ENG) Literature Elective options include ENG 341–349, ENG 352–368, ENG 440G, ENG 450G, ENG 460G,
ENG 470G, ENG 480, ENG 490G, ENG 570
Cost of Attendance
Understand the total estimated expense to attend UK, including tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses.
Tuition and Fees
Understand the specific charges for instruction and related services, excluding other living and personal expenses.