Elementary vs. Secondary Education Degree: Explaining the Difference for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

For the 2024–25 school year, an estimated 49,000 teaching positions remain vacant across the United States, with more than 400,000 roles filled by individuals who are not fully certified for their assignments (Teacher Shortages, 2024). These critical gaps highlight the urgent need for qualified educators, making an elementary and secondary education degree more relevant and in demand than ever.

Pursuing a degree in education can be a deeply personal calling—a chance to shape young minds and influence future generations. But, it can also be a practical career move, offering consistent demand and the potential for advancement. Whether you're drawn to working with younger children or prefer guiding adolescents through their academic and personal development, a career in education can be both meaningful and professionally rewarding.

As someone who has spent years researching teacher preparation, my team and I understand that choosing between an elementary and secondary education degree can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between these two pathway to help you make an informed decision about where your passion for teaching can make the greatest impact.

What are the responsibilities of an elementary school teacher?
What are the responsibilities of a secondary school teacher?
What courses are included in the elementary and secondary education degree programs?
What are the differences between elementary and secondary education degrees?
What are the certification and licensure requirements for elementary and secondary teachers?
How in demand are elementary and secondary education degrees in 2025?
What skills are essential for a successful career in elementary and secondary education?
How can elementary and secondary teachers advance their careers?
What emerging trends are shaping future education careers?
What are the financial aid options and career growth benefits of advanced qualifications?
What are the options for accelerating my teaching degree?
How does the salary of an elementary teacher compare to that of a secondary teacher?
How do you choose between an elementary and secondary education degree?
What additional certifications boost career advancement for educators?
Other Things to Know About Elementary and Secondary Education Degrees

What are the responsibilities of an elementary school teacher?

Elementary school teachers lay the educational foundation for young learners, usually from kindergarten to fifth or sixth grade. Their role is broad, covering multiple subjects and focusing heavily on child development.

Delivering foundational instruction. They teach basic subjects such as reading, math, science, and social studies. The goal is to build core academic skills and encourage curiosity in a wide range of topics.
Creating a nurturing classroom environment. Elementary teachers help students feel safe, supported, and valued. They foster a positive atmosphere that promotes social-emotional growth and respectful behavior.
Developing lesson plans. Lessons are carefully designed to be engaging and age-appropriate, often incorporating interactive activities. These plans align with district or state educational standards.
Monitoring student progress. Teachers track learning through informal observation and formal assessments. They use the results to tailor instruction to student needs.
Communicating with parents or guardians. Teachers keep families informed about academic and behavioral progress. They also partner with parents to address any concerns and enhance student support at home.
Supporting diverse learning needs. Whether through differentiated instruction, one-on-one help, or working with specialists, teachers adapt strategies to ensure all students can succeed.

This is a recognition that mirrors the depth of their responsibilities. From laying the foundation of literacy and numeracy to fostering emotional development and social skills, elementary teachers play a vital role in shaping young learners both academically and morally.

The responsibilities of elementary school teachers are not only vital but also deeply respected by society. The chart below shows that elementary school teachers ranked 2nd in the most respected professions, gaining a trust rating of 61%, next to nurses, which earned 76%. This public trust underscores the rewarding nature of the profession, making elementary education a fulfilling path for those who want to make a lasting difference in children's lives.

What are the responsibilities of a secondary school teacher?

Secondary school teachers specialize in specific subject areas and work with students in grades 6–12. They are responsible not only for academic instruction but also for preparing adolescents for adulthood.

Teaching subject-specific courses. Secondary teachers focus on one or two subjects, such as English, math, or chemistry. They go more in-depth into each subject compared to elementary teachers.
Preparing students for graduation and beyond. They help students meet academic requirements while also encouraging critical thinking, time management, and future planning. These skills are crucial for college or vocational paths.
Creating detailed lesson plans. Lessons are planned around academic standards and may involve lectures, group work, or hands-on labs. Secondary teachers must adjust plans based on student understanding and engagement.
Grading and assessing student work. They evaluate a range of assignments to determine how well students grasp the material. This feedback helps both students and teachers adjust as needed.
Managing classroom behavior. With older students, teachers are expected to enforce classroom rules while promoting independence and accountability. Effective classroom management is essential for maintaining focus and respect.
Providing guidance and mentorship. Secondary teachers often support students through academic or personal challenges. They may also write recommendations, guide career discussions, or help students stay on track for graduation.

While the responsibilities of secondary school teachers are demanding, the rewards can be deeply meaningful. According to the Pew Research Center (2024), 67% of teachers with less than six years of experience report feeling fulfilled in their roles extremely often or often. Although this percentage declines slightly among more experienced educators, it underscores the lasting impact of teaching on both students and teachers.

What courses are included in the elementary and secondary education degree programs?

While specific course titles and sequences vary by institution, these are the core areas you can generally expect:

Courses in an Elementary Education Degree Program

Child Development and Learning. This course introduces the major stages of a child's growth and explains how development affects learning and classroom behavior.
Foundations of Education. Students explore the historical, philosophical, and sociocultural factors that have shaped the modern education system.
Literacy Instruction. This course focuses on strategies for teaching reading and writing, including phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.
Mathematics for Elementary Teachers. The course covers how children learn mathematical concepts and presents techniques for teaching math at the elementary level.
Science and Social Studies Methods. Students learn how to design and deliver engaging lessons in science and social studies that meet curriculum standards.
Classroom Management. This course examines strategies for creating a structured, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment.
Assessment and Evaluation. Students study various assessment tools and learn how to use test results to guide instruction and track progress.
Student Teaching Internship. A semester-long practicum provides real-world teaching experience under the supervision of a certified elementary educator.

Courses in a Secondary Education Degree Program

Adolescent Development. This course explores how physical, emotional, and cognitive changes during adolescence impact behavior and learning.
Instructional Strategies in (Subject Area). Students gain experience with planning and delivering lessons in a specific content area such as math, English, or science.
Educational Psychology. The course presents key psychological principles related to how students learn and how teachers can support diverse learning needs.
Curriculum Design and Planning. Students learn how to develop lesson plans and long-term units that align with learning standards and instructional goals.
Classroom Management for Adolescents. This course offers tools for managing behavior, building relationships, and fostering student engagement at the secondary level.
Technology in Education. Future teachers are introduced to digital tools and online platforms that enhance teaching and support student learning.
Assessment and Data-Driven Instruction. Students learn how to interpret assessment data and make informed decisions to improve student achievement.

Clinical Teaching or Student Teaching. A final practicum provides supervised teaching experience in a middle or high school classroom setting. This is included in the steps to become a certified teacher in the US.

Core Subject Courses. Students will take a variety of advanced courses directly related to the subject they plan to teach. For instance, a student majoring in secondary English education will take courses in literature, writing, grammar, linguistics, and other English-related fields.

Educational Theory and Pedagogy for the Subject Area. Secondary education majors also take courses that focus on how to teach their specific subject. For example, a history education major might take courses in social studies pedagogy.

Secondary education majors decide on their specialization typically before or in the first year of the program and take additional coursework in their subject area to become proficient in the content they will teach. This allows them to deliver specialized lessons and meet the unique educational needs of older students. With 69% of public schools facing difficulty hiring professionals with complete ESL teacher education requirements, specializing in English can offer promising opportunities.

english specialization for secondary education

What are the differences between elementary and secondary education degrees?

Choosing between an elementary and secondary education degree involves more than just the age group you wish to teach—it encompasses differences in instructional strategies, subject specialization, and teaching approaches. These differences reflect the unique developmental stages of the students you’ll be guiding and the varied skills required for effective teaching at each level.

Grade Levels Covered

The most obvious difference lies in the age group you'll be working with. Elementary education degrees prepare teachers to work with younger children, typically from kindergarten to 5th or 6th grade. This stage is crucial for laying the foundation for learning, where teachers must nurture cognitive and social-emotional growth.

In contrast, a secondary education degree is geared toward teaching middle and high school students, typically ages 11 to 18, where the focus shifts to more specialized subjects and preparation for higher education or the workforce.

Subject Specialization

Elementary teachers are generalists, meaning they teach a broad range of subjects—literacy, math, science, and social studies—to the same group of students. The curriculum is designed to provide foundational knowledge across subjects, with a focus on fostering well-rounded learners.

On the other hand, secondary teachers are subject specialists who teach one or two specific areas, such as mathematics, English, history, or science. Secondary education degrees allow future teachers to dive deeper into their subject area, offering more in-depth instruction to students who are expected to understand complex, topic-specific concepts.

Developmental Focus

The early childhood and primary education phases focus heavily on foundational skills, such as literacy and basic numeracy, social skills, and emotional development. In these early years, teachers are responsible for building students' academic identities and setting the groundwork for lifelong learning.

Secondary education, however, addresses the adolescent years, where teachers are tasked with supporting academic independence, critical thinking, and personal development. These years require a more advanced understanding of subject matter as well as the ability to connect the curriculum to real-world applications. Secondary educators must also handle the more complex behavioral and social challenges that come with adolescence.

Teaching Methods And Instructional Strategies

In elementary education, teachers often adopt whole-class teaching strategies, utilizing a mix of interactive activities, hands-on learning, and group discussions to engage young learners in a variety of subjects. Elementary teachers need to be adaptable and ready to switch between different subjects and teaching styles throughout the day.

In secondary education, teaching methods are more subject-specific, with a greater emphasis on lecture-based instruction, group projects, and independent research. Secondary teachers must be skilled in deep subject knowledge, curriculum planning, and providing specialized feedback that helps students progress in their particular field of study.

Field Experiences And Student Teaching

Both degree programs require practicum experiences, but the nature of these internships differs. Elementary education students typically complete their student teaching in a self-contained classroom where they teach multiple subjects to the same group of children. This experience allows elementary teachers to develop classroom management and lesson planning skills across a broad curriculum.

Secondary education students, however, complete their student teaching in a subject-specific classroom, often working with different groups of students throughout the day. This experience sharpens their ability to teach in-depth lessons focused on one or two areas and manage different classroom dynamics depending on the subject.

If you want to work with students with speech impediments, consider becoming a speech pathologist. Look into online speech pathology master's programs that don't require GRE.

What are the certification and licensure requirements for elementary and secondary teachers?

Teaching certification requirements and processes are similar for both levels. It requires a combination of academic preparation, hands-on training, exams, and legal clearances. However, specific requirements vary by grade level and state. These requirements are:

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Typically 4 Years). Elementary Teachers usually focus on a broad curriculum within elementary education, covering subjects like literacy, math, social studies, and science, along with education theory and child development. In contrast, Secondary Teachers often specialize in a specific subject area, such as math or English, while also taking courses tailored for adolescents. Most states require at least a bachelor's degree for teacher certification.

Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program. Program accreditation is necessary, requiring approval from the state board of education or a national accrediting agency like the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Field experiences typically include 100 to 150 hours of supervised classroom observation, followed by a student teaching or internship phase that lasts 12 to 16 weeks and involves 450 to 600 hours of teaching under a certified mentor. It is essential that student teaching placements align with the intended certification level—elementary or secondary—and, for secondary teachers, match the specific subject area.

Pass the Required State Licensure Exams. Elementary teachers typically take a multiple-subject content exam, such as the Praxis® Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (5001), which covers Reading and Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science. In contrast, secondary teaching requirements involve taking a general pedagogy test, like the Praxis® Principles of Learning and Teaching – PLT, along with a subject-specific content test (for example, Praxis® Math 5165, Biology 5236, or English 5038).

Undergo Background Checks and Fingerprinting. All 50 states require criminal background checks and fingerprint clearance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation to ensure the safety of students. This process must be completed either before or during student teaching, depending on state law.
Apply for State Certification. After fulfilling academic and testing requirements, candidates apply to their state’s Department of Education for an Initial or Provisional License. The required documents for this application may include official transcripts, proof of passing exam scores, student teaching verification, fingerprint or background clearance, and application fees, which typically range from $50 to $150 depending on the state.
Maintain and Renew the License. Initial Licenses for teachers are generally valid for 3 to 5 years. To renew or upgrade to a Professional or Standard License, teachers may need to complete Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or professional development hours, additional coursework (especially for those on provisional licenses), and possibly mentoring or performance evaluations, depending on the state. For instance, in New York, teachers must complete 100 hours of professional development every 5 years to maintain their certification.

What skills are essential for a successful career in elementary and secondary education?

A successful career in elementary and secondary education requires more than just subject knowledge. It involves a combination of personal, instructional, and professional skills that allow teachers to effectively support student learning and development. These skills are:

Communication skills. Teachers must be able to explain concepts clearly and adapt their language to suit the developmental level of their students. Elementary teachers communicate with young children and parents regularly, while secondary teachers often explain complex topics to teens and may engage more in academic discussions.
Classroom management. Managing behavior and keeping students engaged is crucial in both settings. Elementary educators establish routines and use positive reinforcement, while secondary educators manage diverse behaviors and balance authority with student autonomy.
Adaptability and creativity. Every classroom is different. Teachers must modify lessons, use creative teaching methods, and accommodate various learning styles to meet individual needs.
Patience and empathy. These are essential when working with students from different backgrounds and ability levels. Elementary teachers, in particular, guide students through early social and emotional development, while secondary teachers support adolescents navigating academic and personal growth.
Subject expertise and content knowledge. Secondary teachers must demonstrate deep understanding of their chosen subject (e.g., math, English), while elementary teachers must be confident in teaching multiple subjects at a foundational level.
Organization and time management. Planning lessons, grading assignments, and handling administrative tasks require strong organization. This is especially important for teachers managing several classes or subjects.
Collaboration skills. Teachers often work with colleagues, parents, school counselors, and administrators. Being a team player helps ensure consistent support for student success.

Tech proficiency and AI tool use. With digital tools now part of everyday teaching, teachers must be comfortable with educational software, virtual classrooms, and online assessment tools. Currently, 55% of public school leaders report that some teachers use AI for lesson plans, and 67% of public schools provide AI training to their teachers, emphasizing its increasing importance in education (NCES, 2024).

How can elementary and secondary teachers advance their careers?

Elementary and secondary teachers can advance their careers by pursuing further education, gaining specialized certifications, and taking on leadership roles within their schools or districts, as outlined below:

Pursuing graduate studies. Earning a master’s degree in education, curriculum design, special education, or administration can lead to promotions, higher salaries, and specialized teaching roles. A subject-specific master’s program, like an online history degree, is also a good option for secondary teachers who want to deepen their expertise in a particular content area.

Obtaining additional certifications. Teachers can take ESL teaching certification online, special education, STEM, or gifted education to broaden their expertise and take on more targeted positions.

Becoming a mentor or lead teacher. Experienced teachers may mentor new educators, coordinate grade-level teams, or lead professional development sessions—opening doors to leadership without leaving the classroom.

Transitioning into administrative roles. With the right qualifications, teachers can move into roles such as instructional coordinator, assistant principal, or principal.

Exploring roles in education policy or curriculum development. Some teachers contribute to shaping educational standards or developing instructional materials for schools, districts, or educational publishers.

Pursuing national board certification. This prestigious credential demonstrates advanced teaching practice and can enhance professional credibility and salary prospects.

Look into the prerequisites for masters in education if you plan on pursuing graduate studies.

The data below shows that secondary school teachers working in state government roles outside schools and hospitals earned the highest average salary at $99,120, significantly more than the $73,890 average in traditional school settings (BLS, 2023). This indicates that educators can advance their careers and increase earnings by transitioning into policy, training, or administrative roles in government. Other higher-paying opportunities include positions in educational support services and colleges and universities, offering salaries above $68,000. These alternatives reflect how teaching professionals can apply their skills beyond the classroom for greater career growth and compensation.

What emerging trends are shaping future education careers?

Recent shifts in educational methods and technology are redefining career trajectories for educators. Increased emphasis on digital literacy, blended learning, and data-driven instruction is prompting degree programs to update curricula and incorporate modern classroom tools. Meanwhile, the growing recognition of social-emotional learning and personalized education models is influencing how educators plan student engagement and support. Advanced programs are also emerging that offer accelerated pathways, such as the shortest EdD program online, catering to professionals aiming to rapidly enhance their credentials and implement innovative teaching strategies in evolving academic environments.

What are the financial aid options and career growth benefits of advanced qualifications?

Advanced qualifications can substantially improve an educator’s earning potential while opening avenues for career progression through leadership roles or specialized positions. Financial aid opportunities—including grants, scholarships, and employer reimbursement programs—can alleviate tuition costs, making further education a viable investment. Educators may also explore cost-effective graduate alternatives, such as the cheapest library science degree online, to broaden their expertise without substantial financial strain. These strategic educational investments can lead to long-term competitive advantages in an ever-evolving academic landscape.

What are the options for accelerating my teaching degree?

Accelerated programs offer a streamlined path for completing degree requirements, allowing aspiring educators to enter the workforce faster without compromising on quality or meeting state certification standards. These programs often include flexible online course structures, transfer credit options, and intensive study modules designed to reduce overall program duration while maintaining rigorous academic content. For detailed insights into program timelines and structure, explore how to earn a teaching degree online fast.

How does the salary of an elementary teacher compare to that of a secondary teacher?

According to ZipRecruiter, elementary school teachers in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of $52,101, while high school (secondary) teachers earn around $57,056 per year. This means secondary teachers typically earn about 9.5% more than their elementary counterparts. Several factors contribute to this salary gap:

Subject specialization. High school teachers often teach specialized or advanced subjects (e.g., STEM, AP courses), which may come with higher compensation.
Education level and certifications. Secondary teachers may be required to have more subject-specific education or endorsements, which can lead to higher pay.
Grade-level responsibilities. Managing older students and preparing them for college or careers often involves different instructional demands compared to teaching younger children.
Location and district funding. Salaries vary significantly depending on state, district, and local cost of living. For instance, states like California and New York typically offer higher teacher salaries.

The chart below shows that the highest-paying cities for secondary school teachers are primarily in California and Massachusetts, with Corte Madera, CA, offering the top salary at $64,724. This reflects regional differences in cost of living and education funding, though outliers like Holdrege, NE and Wyoming, WY show that competitive salaries can also be found in less urban areas.

How in demand are elementary and secondary education degrees in 2025?

Elementary and secondary education degrees remain relevant in 2025, even though the overall employment for teachers is projected to decline slightly by 1% from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This slow growth reflects shifts in student enrollment and budget constraints in some districts. However, demand for qualified educators continues due to high turnover, retirements, and persistent shortages in specific subjects like math, science, and special education, as well as in underserved communities.

Data from Statista (2024) supports this outlook: in 2021, the U.S. had 3.21 million public school teachers and 483,000 private school teachers. By 2031, these numbers are expected to slightly shift to 3.19 million and 487,000, respectively. While the numbers are relatively stable, the need to replace outgoing teachers and fill roles in high-need areas means that degrees in elementary and secondary education still hold strong career potential.

If you're considering a meaningful and in-demand career path, now is an excellent time to pursue an elementary or secondary education degree. And speaking of meaningful and in-demand career path, you can also choose between a master of engineering vs master of science for your graduate studies.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the top challenges schools face when hiring fully certified teachers for the 2024–25 school year are a lack of qualified candidates (64%) and too few applicants (62%). These gaps point to real opportunities for new educators to step in and make a lasting impact. By entering the field, you’re not only building a stable career, you’re helping to fill a vital need in communities across the country.

How do you choose between an elementary and secondary education degree?

Choosing between an elementary and secondary education degree is also like choosing between an EdS vs EdD degree for your doctorate. Regardless of what it is, your choice involves several important factors that reflect both your personal preferences and professional goals.

First, consider the age group you feel most comfortable working with—elementary teachers typically work with children in grades K–5, while secondary teachers teach middle and high school students. Think about whether you prefer teaching multiple subjects (as in elementary settings) or want to specialize in a particular subject, such as math, English, or science, which is the focus of secondary education. Classroom dynamics also differ; younger students may require more guidance in behavior and basic learning, while older students need support in critical thinking and subject mastery.

You should also reflect on your teaching style, patience level, and communication approach, as these may align more naturally with one group over the other. Finally, consider career opportunities and salary potential, which can vary by location, subject demand, and grade level. Carefully evaluating these factors can help you choose a path that matches your strengths and fulfills your professional aspirations.

What additional certifications boost career advancement for educators?

Pursuing further certifications can open pathways to leadership roles and specialized instructional areas. Advanced credentials in areas such as special education, technology integration, or bilingual education offer educators an edge in navigating evolving academic requirements. Moreover, exploring degrees beyond traditional teaching can broaden career horizons; for instance, our post about jobs for MLIS illustrate an alternative route that leverages expertise in educational resources.

Key Findings

There are currently 49,000 unfilled teaching positions in the U.S., and over 400,000 positions are held by individuals who are not fully certified for their roles.
67% of teachers with less than six years of experience report feeling fulfilled in their jobs frequently, indicating that teaching can be a rewarding career early on.
To become licensed, candidates must complete 100 to 150 hours of classroom observation, followed by 12 to 16 weeks of student teaching or internship, amounting to 450 to 600 hours of hands-on teaching.
State governments offer the highest salaries for an education degree, followed by traditional schools. This gives educators more career options beyond teaching in schools.
Elementary school teachers earn an average of $52,101 per year, while secondary teachers earn about $57,056 annually, meaning secondary teachers typically earn about 9.5% more.

Other Things To Know About Elementary and Secondary Education Degrees

Can you switch between elementary and secondary teaching after getting licensed?

Yes, it’s possible to switch between elementary and secondary teaching, but it typically requires meeting additional state certification requirements. Elementary and secondary licenses are distinct, and each is tied to different grade levels and subject areas. If you’re licensed in one area, you may need to complete coursework or pass subject-specific exams to qualify for the other. Some states offer flexible or additional endorsements to make the transition easier.

Are online degree programs available for elementary and secondary education?

Yes, many accredited universities offer online degree programs for both elementary and secondary education. These programs often include virtual coursework combined with in-person student teaching or fieldwork requirements. Online degrees are especially beneficial for working adults or those seeking flexibility. However, it’s essential to ensure that the program meets your state’s licensure requirements.

What are the continuing education requirements for teachers in each field?

Continuing education requirements vary by state but generally apply to both elementary and secondary teachers. Most states require teachers to renew their licenses every 3–5 years by completing professional development hours, graduate coursework, or approved training. Topics often include instructional strategies, classroom management, and subject-specific updates. Some states also mandate cultural competency or technology integration training.

Can you teach abroad with a U.S. education degree?

Yes, a U.S. education degree can open doors to teaching opportunities abroad, especially in international schools or programs that follow U.S. or English-language curricula. However, each country has its own requirements, and you may need to meet local certification standards, visa conditions, or language proficiency. International teaching often values experience and adaptability. Programs like Teach Abroad or organizations such as the International Baccalaureate can be helpful starting points.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023a). High school teachers: Occupational outlook handbook. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023b). Kindergarten and elementary school teachers: Occupational outlook handbook. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/kindergarten-and-elementary-school-teachers.htm

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023c). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023: Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes252031.htm