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High School Teaching Careers and Education Info in Texas



  School and Career Overview

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Here are some tips for selecting schools, based on an analysis comparing each school to all others across dozens of factors:

Schools Concentrating On Secondary School Teachers

  • Focus: For schools with a focus on this career area, look at Central Texas College, Colin College, University of Houston-Downtown, and Austin Community College District.

Fastest Response From Schools

  • Request Info: For the fastest information for prospective students, look at the Spotlight schools on this page.

Student Body

  • Part-Time: For schools emphasizing part-time studies, consider Texas A&M Kingsville, Dallas Christian, Southwestern Assemblies of God University, and Texas Wesleyan University.
  • Female: For schools particularly welcoming to female students, consider Texas Woman's University.
  • Diverse: For a diverse student body, consider Paul Quinn College, Texas Southern, TAMIU, and UT Brownsville.
  • Adult Learners: For lots of adult learners, consider Texas Woman's University, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Lee College, and University of St Thomas.

School Setting

  • Out of State: For geographic diversity, take note of Central Texas College, University of Dallas, Southwestern Assemblies of God University, and SMU.
  • Dorms: For a residential campus environment, take note of Arlington Baptist, Jarvis Christian, East Texas Baptist University, and Southwestern University.

Excellence

  • SAT: For students with high SAT scores, look at Rice University, Trinity University, Southwestern University, and Austin College.
  • % Accepted: For selective institutions, look at Rice University, Southwestern Assemblies of God University, Hardin - Simmons, and Prairie View A & M University.
  • Class Size: For small class sizes, look at Rice University, Southwestern University, Texas Wesleyan University, and Trinity University.

Working as a Secondary School Teacher in Texas

Secondary school teachers, also known as high school teachers, help students in realizing their goals and act as career coaches and build up their confidence levels. They work to create lesson plans coordinate club activities, invite guest speakers, and plan field trips. They help in monitoring students’ behavior and conduct assessments for them. They also assist students in selecting instruction material and resources. Read a detailed Secondary School Teacher job description and schools overview.

Secondary school teachers may find useful career related resources and information at the Texas State Teachers Association.

State Requirements

Teachers, including secondary school teachers, are required to obtain a Certification of Educators in Texas (EXCET). A written examination is part of the requirements for this certification. For more details on all the requirements, visit the state's State Board for Educator Certification.


 

Read Reviews of Schools for This Career and State

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Study from Anywhere at Online Schools Related to This Career

University of Phoenix Online

  • Programs: 2 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Master

Kaplan University

  • Programs: 4 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Master

Walden University

  • Programs: 3 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Master

Ashford University

  • Programs: 3 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Master

Grand Canyon University

  • Programs: 7 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Bachelor, Master

Jones International University

  • Programs: 2 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Master

Student/Alumnus Reviews of Schools for This Career and State

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Texas A&M University - Central Texas • Killeen, TX
Studying Computer Information Systems (completion in 2010)

• 10/30/2011

"I feel like I received a good education. However, I would have liked some kind of career placement advice afterwards."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesWere the school to reinstate the program I graduated from, it would be beneficial to our community. My community is actively hiring students from the school that I graduated from, which is no mean feat in today's economy.
Program Reputation3The department faculty had wonderful reputations. As the school discontinued the program not long after I graduated, it is my opinion that it was not well accepted.
Program Quality7I enjoyed the classes, the staff, the participants and the schedule. It was completely different from what I had expected, I found it stimulating.
Instruction8The faculty were wonderful! Not only were they well trained, but had worked in the industry.
How Difficult8The program was very challenging. There was a substantial amount of academic work that needed to be done on a very tight schedule.
Hands-On vs. BookishMuch of our hands-on learning was performed on our own. Our instructors provided excellent additional information with lectures and power point presentations.
Schedule Flexibility8Our schedule involved going to school on Saturdays and completing and submitting work online. It was a really great schedule with the best of online and traditional classes.
Academic Facilities7Our school was in the process of changing hands when I graduated. It is currently growing quite quickly.
Social Life3I was never privy to anything of the kind. It was a small school without an athletic program.
Placement Services1I was never offered any assistance in obtaining employment, nor was I offered any assistance with career services.
Alumni Network1Our school was in the process of changing hands when I graduated. The school had yet to really form an identity.

University Of Texas At Arlington • Arlington, TX
Studying Biology (completion in 1987)

• 10/29/2011

"I got my degree, that was my only goal."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeA recommendation would depend on student's goals.
Program Reputation4I don't hear much about the school now that I'm out, it's fairly average.
Program Quality5It does not feel like a community - there's no school spirit.
Instruction5
How Difficult6School of Science classes were very difficult, professors did not seem dedicated.
Hands-On vs. BookishWe were expected to read the book and then answer questions.
Schedule Flexibility2Courses were offered at strict times and locations but nights were also available.
Academic Facilities4Science classes were adequately equipped but were by no means amazing.
Social Life2I never participated, there was no school spirit.
Placement Services2No services were provided to me, nothing was offered.
Alumni Network4

University Of Notre Dame • San Antonio, TX
Studying Education (completion in 2007)

• 10/27/2011

"The school did everything necessary to get us started in teaching. They really tried to prepare us for the classroom."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesI couldn't think of a better way to learn. Sometimes you have to just immerse yourself in a program to learn.
Program Reputation8It was a very unusual program. It was somewhat similar to Teach for America and has a low acceptance rate.
Program Quality7The program was 2 years and intensive, with a large group of people with a similar mindset as myself. It provided both practical and theoretical guidance.
Instruction8I would have liked more focus on the practical issues, like dealing with discipline. My program really pushed me to think through my instruction.
How Difficult6We were challenged to do our best, but the grading was relatively lenient.
Hands-On vs. BookishWe had very little book reading. We mostly created things we would actually use in the classroom.
Schedule Flexibility1Because it was an intensive program, there was no flexibility in the program at all. We had to take a specific regimen of classes at specific times.
Academic Facilities9We had all the immense resources of Notre Dame at our disposal. We didn't need such vast resources, but they were available.
Social Life8There were tons of organized (and unorganized) social events. From religious to food, there was a wide variety of activities.
Placement Services9When accepted into the program, we are immediately placed into a school. We don't get accepted unless we have a placement for us in a school.
Alumni Network8There are strong groups that are still working from the university. There are even groups trying to influence educational policy from my program.

Texas A&M University • College Station, TX
Studying Public Health (completion in 2007)

• 11/5/2011

"I had a great experience at my school. I am very satisfied."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeThis school did not provide me with a background in teaching, but it was a great school to attend.
Program Reputation8The school is accredited for public health. Very few schools have this accreditation.
Program Quality9My university has an excellent public health program and I feel that I received a great education. My only complaint, which is why I did not rate it as a 10, was that we should have received more guidance regarding obtaining jobs in our field after graduation.
Instruction10The instructors were very knowledgeable in their content areas. They were also very passionate about the field.
How Difficult9Because this was a master's program, it was very difficult and time-consuming. There were many writing assignments and a final practicum assignment, which was difficult.
Hands-On vs. BookishThere was a lot of book learning during the first year. Second year, we had to complete a hands-on practicum. Also, many instructors had us work on their projects, which provided hands-on learning.
Schedule Flexibility8Classes were available online and in the evening. No weekend classes were offered. Classes were offered during fall, spring and summer semesters.
Academic Facilities9A brand-new building was built for the school in 2006. Facilities were excellent.
Social Life9Texas A&M has many traditions and provides a great social experience. Football games were great. And everyone says "howdy" to everyone they see.
Placement Services2There was no job placement help. The larger university did provide some help with resume writing.
Alumni Network5We receive a monthly emailed newsletter. There is also an alumni Facebook page.

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary • Fort Worth, TX
Studying Music (completion in 1990)

• 11/1/2011

"They equipped me to do the job right. They provided me with the best tools."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeYes, if they wanted the advanced degree and a Christian setting. No, if all they wanted to do was teach Band.
Program Reputation8Among seminaries, it is well thought of. It is also one of the largest.
Program Quality10My undergrad degree was perfectly tailored to doing the work that I do as a teacher. My graduate degree enables me to build on that and be involved in other types of work.
Instruction10The schools I attended provided significant faculty/student interaction. Instruction was not a 9-to-5 experience and this prepared me for this not 9-to-5 profession as a Band Director.
How Difficult7It was tough, but it could have been worse. I think we spent at least as much time in the music library as other students spent in research.
Hands-On vs. BookishWe worked with neighborhood schools for the hands-on learning. We also did community events.
Schedule Flexibility7Larger schools have that flexibility. I took weekend classes and night classes.
Academic Facilities8They are some of the best. I especially like the historical archives.
Social Life7No team sports other than intramural. There were plenty of social events.
Placement Services7My main purpose in attending seminary was not to advance my school education career, but rather a church position. I did not use them to help me get my school job.
Alumni Network5It is only good for so long. They become less relevant the longer you are out of school.

East Texas Baptist University • Marshall, TX
Studying Life Science (completion in 2007)

• 11/28/2011

"My school was very strict, but it was a private Baptist college, so that was expected. That was really the only problem that I had with the school, so I had an above-average experience."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeI would recommend it if I thought they would fit in with the culture there. This school is not for everyone, but for most, I think they would like it there.
Program Reputation6The school has a pretty good graduation rate and teacher certification rate. I would rate it above average, because most who go through the program are able to use their degrees when they get out.
Program Quality7The college provided very good life science classes, so I rated it above average. I would have given a higher rating, but the education classes were not that high of quality.
Instruction6The biology curriculum that I learned was more than sufficient. The education curriculum was not very helpful to the real-world situations that I would face.
How Difficult4The education program was extremely easy. The classes did not offer much of a challenge and the teachers were a bit old fashioned.
Hands-On vs. BookishMost of the classes were more book learning. The science classes had a more hands-on approach.
Schedule Flexibility2Class sizes are small and the times they are offered are extremely limited. I think because it is a small school, the options are limited.
Academic Facilities4It was a small school and they had adequate facilities for the amount of students. There were plenty of classrooms, but tutors were limited.
Social Life7I had a really good college experience. I loved most of my professors, met great friends, played softball, and had a lot of fun.
Placement Services3They did not do much to help me find a job. It is located in a small town, and once you leave, they do not follow up on your progress.
Alumni Network5I rated it as average, because I am not sure what the norm is. I, as an alum, do not offer much support, especially financially.

University Of Texas At Arlington • Arlington, TX
Studying English Secondary Teaching Certification (completion in 2010)

• 11/23/2011

"UTA was really a great school. They really want to help everyone accomplish their dreams."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesI would recommend my school, because you can have fun, learn a lot, and help many children in the process. You will also make some great friends along the way that will help you through your journey of helping the children of our future.
Program Reputation6Many people don't do their education program. But many of them miss out, because it really is a great program.
Program Quality10They made the experience great by having great and loving teachers who actually care. The teachers even kept in contact with you after the program was over.
Instruction10There were lots of different classes to take. The university made sure that you had interviews lined up when you graduated, and a teacher mentor who helped you to secure a good job at a good high school.
How Difficult7The last semester was the hardest, because it was not only my classes, but also the student teachers' classes that I was teaching on my own after a couple of months.
Hands-On vs. BookishThe teachers believed in putting you in the classroom from the very beginning. You also taught many of the lessons to your fellow classmates.
Schedule Flexibility4There were only evening classes. They also require you to work 40 hours with no pay, so you have to fit that around your other job that you may need to live off of.
Academic Facilities10The facilities were great. There were always great and new books in the library, and there were updated computer facilities.
Social Life5I really don't know about school spirit, since I was always busy. I do know that many of my friends loved the school spirit and went to every game with the school color makeup on and everything.
Placement Services10They made sure everyone had an interview before they graduated. You can also come to the school and go through refresher courses on the interview skills that you need to get a good job.
Alumni Network10It is very good. They call you every month to check up on you and to make sure you are able to handle the situations that have arisen.

University Of Texas At Dallas • Richardson, TX
Studying Computer Science (completion in 1998)

• 12/18/2011

"I enjoyed my college experience. I felt the university supported me. I think I was well prepared for my chosen field, and I was even supported in my career search."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeMy current career as a teacher is not what I went to college for. While I would recommend my university to anyone wishing to pursue a career in computer science, I wouldn't necessarily recommend my university over any other one for a career in teaching. I, in fact, do recommend my university to my computer science students.
Program Reputation8I recently read that UTD's engineering and computer science programs ranked near the top in the state of Texas. Also, this university's campus originated as a center for technological development. The university recently began pursuing status as a top-tier research institution.
Program Quality9The coursework was rigorous. Many different class choices were available to pursue particular interests.
Instruction8The knowledge of the instructors was current and relevant. The program (like most college programs) could have done a better job of preparing the students for what an actual position in the field was like.
How Difficult8Computer science projects can be quite time-consuming. Often, one small, difficult-to-find error can require hours of work. Also, the amount of mathematics required for a computer science degree can be challenging.
Hands-On vs. BookishThe computer science program focused on actual programming assignments as opposed to exams. The program was perhaps a little lacking on larger-scale projects, though.
Schedule Flexibility6UTD seems pretty typical of most universities in regard to scheduling. It is a large enough university that they offer both day and night classes, as well as summer courses. For the most part, different sections of a course were offered during different times.
Academic Facilities7The university has multiple computer labs, and even offers a laptop checkout service through the library. Additionally, computer terminals were placed throughout the campus, for easy access. Professors were easily accessible.
Social Life6Even though the university offers little support for athletic teams, it supports a very active intramural program. The lack of traditional dorms stifles socialization to some extent, but the student activities board seems to make up for that deficiency.
Placement Services7The university has a job placement and career counseling center. They placed me in my first job.
Alumni Network4Unlike many other schools, UTD does not really promote its sports programs. Sporting events frequently rally alumni in support of their school. Lacking these types of events causes alumni participation at the university to be low.

The University Of Texas • Austin, TX
Studying UTeach English (completion in 2012)

• 12/10/2011

"UT is a great school, and UTeach is a great program. I feel prepared to work in school as a result."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesAs demonstrated in the previous answers, it's just amazing.
Program Reputation10There are other UTeach departments at UT, such as math and science. These programs met with the UTeach English department this semester to see how they could mimic the English program to improve their own.
Program Quality10The UTeach program is amazing. The program is tough and gives its students a lot of classroom experience.
Instruction10All of my teachers in the program were experienced and supportive. They gave solid individual feedback and were extremely supportive.
How Difficult7This program was very intense in its workload, but appropriately so. Most of the work was for my teaching experience, like lesson planning or unit planning.
Hands-On vs. BookishWe get a lot of experience in the classroom with this program. We are also required to do a lot of reading, however.
Schedule Flexibility8Because the cohort is so small (which is a good thing), there is often only one section of a class offered. This means that you must take a class during the time of this section, even if it is inconvenient.
Academic Facilities9Compared to other colleges, the college of education has some fairly good resources. However, there are still a lot of media and computer resources as well as material resources that could be improved.
Social Life10There are great student organizations at UT. There is also a great sense of community - we're our own city within the city.
Placement Services10UT hosts career fairs with good positions. Also, because of our placement in schools throughout the program, we are able to be in contact with school districts. Districts also call and ask for recommendations from within the UTeach program.
Alumni Network10UT is a great community, and the UTeach program is an even better one. My fellow students and I were able to support each other while also getting support from advisers and professors.

University Of Dallas • Dallas, TX
Studying Religion Study (completion in 2009)

• 1/3/2012

"I had a good time and learned a lot about religion. Also, I met a lot of interesting professors and students."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesUniversity of Dallas is great. It has a comprehensive program for religion study, and you have the opportunity to go abroad.
Program Quality9My school has a study abroad program, so I had the opportunity to go to Europe to study more about religion. I really enjoyed the time I spent abroad, especially visiting the Vatican.
Instruction8We have good professors who are really knowledgeable in their fields. Plus, we have a chance to go to many countries to actually experience the religions of many cultures.
How Difficult8There are many religions and concepts that you have to remember; however, it was fun knowing many things. University of Dallas really cares about what you learn, so all the professors here really take their jobs seriously when grading your assignments.
Hands-On vs. BookishIt is equal. We have knowledge in class by studying in class, and actual experience by studying abroad.
Schedule Flexibility8It has many classes that you can take, so you can organize your schedule to suit your available timeslots. I took a couple of evening classes and really liked it.
Academic Facilities8It has a big library, which has many books and other types of media about religion study. The school campus is beautiful and is equipped with many beautiful places that you can spend time and study.
Social Life5We are not really good at sports. However, the school spirit is high, because of many social events.
Placement Services8I found a job when I was still in school. Many companies are willing to take University of Dallas students.
Alumni Network8We have an extension school in Europe and here in Dallas as well; therefore, we have a large network of students and alumni. Also, because of the reputation of the school, many companies would like to cooperate to look for new employees.

University Of Texas - El Paso • El Paso, TX
Studying Mathematics (completion in 2006)

• 1/13/2012

"The program was good. The administrative needs were always changing."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesI would recommend the program if I was asked. I feel very mathematically prepared and am confident in the program.
Program Reputation8My school has a decent rating. It is popular in my field.
Program Quality6I do not feel that my university prepared me for my certification test. There should be more focus on various areas.
Instruction5My instructors were OK. I had both good and bad along the way.
How Difficult9I enjoy my program of study. It is challenging and rewarding.
Hands-On vs. BookishIt was mathematics. The majority of it was book-related.
Schedule Flexibility8There was good flexibility with the courses. I had little trouble if I registered early.
Academic Facilities5The facilities were ok. The technologies were not incorporated into the classes very much.
Social Life8I enjoyed my social experiences at the school. There were plenty of activities year-round.
Placement Services9The school provides a job fair for students each year. Many school districts hire teachers on the spot at these fairs.
Alumni NetworkI do not have experience with my alumni network.

University Of Houston - Clear Lake • Houston, TX
Studying Instructional Technology (completion in 2010)

• 1/14/2012

"I believe that my school provided me with the tools to succeed in my program. Help was also provided any time it was needed."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesUHCL has an outstanding education department. Anyone wanting to focus on Instructional Technology would benefit from attending UHCL.
Program Reputation4I found the program online. I haven't heard anyone talk about the program and haven't seen it advertised.
Program Quality10I really enjoyed the classes provided by UHCL in instructional technology. A lot of the content in the classes has made my classroom experiences better.
Instruction10Although my courses were online, professors made sure to challenge students in every aspect. This really helped in my field (instructional technology), since educational distance programs are increasing in the US as a viable educational option.
How Difficult6I don't feel that my program of study was too difficult, because it was an area that I already had experience in. It was challenging, but not difficult.
Hands-On vs. BookishInstructional technology is a very hands-on learning field. While there was some reading involved, most aspects were actually utilizing instructional technology.
Schedule Flexibility10My entire program was online. This made the class schedule very flexible, as I could log on at any time to work on assignments prior to deadlines.
Academic Facilities10My school's computer lab for instructional technology is phenomenal. Any equipment that you could imagine was provided.
Social LifeI took an online program, so I was not involved in the social aspect of school.
Placement ServicesI have not used the school's career services. I may try, because I would like a position outside of the high school classroom.
Alumni NetworkI have not used UHCL's alumni network.

Howard Payne University • Brownwood, TX
Studying Secondary Education, English And Music (completion in 1982)

• 1/10/2012

"I felt HPU prepared me for a career in education. The teachers were helpful and the university collaborated with the public school system."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesI recommend HPU to my graduating seniors, because it is a school with high expectations and helpful, intelligent professors. It also incorporates religion and character education, as well as academics.
Program Reputation10Howard Payne is known as one of the best private schools in this area of the country. It has high standards in choosing students and professors.
Program Quality8The English and music departments at HPU are challenging, and I feel that I was well qualified to teach those subjects at the time of my graduation. The professors at the school were wonderful people who were great role models.
Instruction10I felt very prepared when I took my first job. HPU has a fabulous music department, which gave me the opportunity to participate in ensembles, play instruments, take lessons, and learn the basics of music theory. The grammar classes were very challenging, and I feel extremely competent in my grammar skills as a result.
How Difficult8The programs at HPU are challenging. However, because of the size of the school, the professors are available for one-on-one help whenever needed.
Hands-On vs. BookishMost of the learning was based on textbooks, which was the norm in the 1980s. I did have quite a bit of opportunity to learn by observing classrooms in the area.
Schedule Flexibility10I never had any trouble scheduling the classes I needed at reasonable times. I did not know anyone who ever had trouble with that.
Academic Facilities10The campus was modern for the time. The library was up to date with the latest technology, which, at the time, was tape recorders, typewriters, etc.
Social Life5The school did not have much of a following in sports, but the music department was very well supported by the student body. There were many religious events and parties for Christian groups.
Placement Services8I believe it was as good as any other school back in 1982. There was a bulletin board with jobs posted.
Alumni Network5I receive correspondence a couple of times a year, which gives me an opportunity to contribute to the school and catch up on current events at the school.

University Of Texas • Austin, TX
Studying Education (completion in 2001)

• 1/16/2012

"I loved just about every part of it. UT fully prepared me for my teaching career."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesOther than the high enrollment, you will love the Education program at UT. You will be prepared to become a teacher.
Program Reputation9Teachers from UT are usually in high demand. I have heard nothing but good things.
Program Quality8My professors were excellent. The amount of students in the program was enormous, so it was hard to get the needed attention, but it was still a very good program.
Instruction9My professors prepared me well for most of the tough situations I have experienced thus far. My student teaching experience was also wonderful.
How Difficult6While I did learn a lot, the classes themselves weren't too challenging. The workload was very fair, compared to other places.
Hands-On vs. BookishA lot was book learning. I'm positive the high numbers had a lot to do with this. However, the student teaching and observation part is all hands on.
Schedule Flexibility10At UT, just about every possible option for taking classes exists. No matter what a person's schedule, they should be able to make it work at UT.
Academic Facilities8This rating would have been higher, had professors been more accessible. However, most other aspects, from the library to technology, were top of the line.
Social Life7Way too many people at times to be enjoyable. However, there is never a lack of things to do.
Placement Services5Because of the sheer number of graduates looking for jobs, it was tough to get the necessary attention. I had to do a lot of the searching myself.
Alumni Network9UT alumni are everywhere, especially from my field of study. The support is tremendous.
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