In our BA in English for Secondary Education program, you’ll learn instructional strategies, curriculum development, and classroom management tailored for middle and high schools. Engage in literature studies and writing instruction to inspire critical thinking and effective communication. Gain essential skills for classroom success.
Our program instills the professional mindset necessary to be a successful English teacher. You will find success in learning in a supportive and hands-on learning environment where faculty are invested in your success. Our program provides the foundation you need to become a competent and compassionate teacher employers are eager to hire.
You’ll experience hands-on learning through 140+ hours of field experience and 1 semester of student teaching.
Upon completing the English program you’ll be recommended for a license to teach in Iowa agencies and schools.
Whether you want to work in Illinois or another state, our faculty will guide you toward obtaining your teaching license.
Our faculty, staff, and students create a learning environment, cultivating creativity, innovation, and a sense of community.
Our faculty work with local businesses and school districts to help you land an internship that aligns with your goals.
Add a focus on English as a second language (K-12) to your degree in any approved secondary education major.
You’ll start by taking foundational courses in English. Then, you’ll explore education courses where you’ll build an understanding of learner development, learning differences, and learning environments. When you’re done, you’ll be prepared to become a fully licensed teacher in the State of Iowa.
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| EDENGL 230/530 | The Structure & Grammar of English | 3 credits |
| EDUC 300 | The Pluralistic Classroom | 3 credits |
| ENGL 313/513 | Linguistics: Language and Learning | 3 credits |
| ENGL 315 | Written Business Communication | 3 credits |
| ENGL 401 | Senior Seminar | 3 credits |
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,189 | $36,378 |
| Housing** | $4,019 | $8,038 |
| Food*** | $2,670 | $5,340 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,018 | $50,036 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Accreditation and recognition provide the assurance we meet standards for quality faculty, curriculum, leaner services, and fiscal stability.
St. Ambrose University’s English for Secondary Education program is approved by the Iowa Department of Education.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
St. Ambrose University’s English for Secondary Education faculty offer students a wealth of knowledge in a variety of areas. They publish literature and creative writing works, sit on the Midwest Writing Center’s Board of Directors, and maintain relationships with school districts and businesses in the area to ensure their students get the most well-rounded education possible.
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
"The Ambrose Advantage allowed me to come to college without much worry about debt in my future."
-Caleb Gillmore, Monticello, Iowa
Join an international organization of student teachers in student teaching programs–Phi Delta Kappa. Members engage in service projects and participate in regional conferences.
Become a published writer by submitting poetry or short stories to Quercus–St. Ambrose University’s creative-art journal. Once a year, the journal publishes works from SAU students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Want to decide the writing, artwork, and audio/visual work that make publication? Work with English department faculty to become a student editor. Quercus student editors layout and design the journal and review all submissions.
"I feel so much more confident now than when I came as a first-year student. Being able to work in so many positions and having all of these experiences, I feel so ready for my next step in the world."
-Anna Badamo '18, BA in English and Psychology
Here are the admissions requirements for our English for Secondary Education program.
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
We have special requirements for admittance to the School of Education.
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our English for Secondary Education program could achieve.
Potential job titles
Potential employment settings
Traits of an English teacher
For more information on English teacher employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
