School of Education & Social Policy
Secondary Teaching
The Elementary Teaching concentration is designed to help students become skilled and committed educators and to improve conditions for teaching and learning in elementary schools
MSEd secondary teaching alumnus Scott Galson (MS06) teaches high school mathematics.		 The Secondary Teaching concentration is designed to help students become skilled and committed educators and improve conditions for teaching and learning in secondary schools. Secondary Teaching is one of four concentrations within the Master of Science in Education (MSEd) program at Northwestern University's School of Education and Social Policy.

This concentration prepares students to earn a State of Illinois Type 09 teaching certificate for grades 6-12, required for work in Illinois public schools. Secondary teacher candidates may also pursue a middle-school endorsement (which covers grades 6-8) for the Illinois Type 09 certificate.

The concentration  is distinctive in many ways:
  • Our flexible scheduling allows students to complete the master's degree in as little as one year.
  • Students from diverse backgrounds collaborate and learn from each other.
  • Faculty enrich classrooms with the real-world experience of their professional practice.
  • A challenging curriculum explores the meaning and structure of teaching and emphasizes reflection and inquiry.
  • The master’s project  allows student to conduct authentic research and explore a topic of interest in-depth.
  • Students benefit from field experiences with skilled mentors in both urban and suburban placements.
  • Alumni enjoy successful teaching careers in a wide range of school settings.
Students consider various pedagogical methods and the design of authentic learning environments that value diversity and engage student interest. They investigate the theoretical underpinnings of education, examine their own philosophies and beliefs and connect these, through reflection and active inquiry, to teaching practices. Most will participate in field experiences in both urban and suburban settings.

Apply now! 
To request an information packet, please contact the  MSEd program office  or call 847/467-1458.