Students interested in becoming secondary school teachers (Grades 6-12) in English or social sciences earn a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in the College of Arts and Sciences (e.g., English, history). While completing requirements for the baccalaureate degree, students are encouraged to complete a minor in secondary education.
Students interested in becoming secondary school teachers (Grades 6-12) in mathematics or the sciences participate in the VolsTeach program associated with their academic major.
VolsTeach
Students pursuing a major in selected programs in the College of Arts and Sciences are eligible to participate in the University’s VolsTeach program (https://volsteach.utk.edu/), which permits students to simultaneously complete a major in mathematics or science and receive secondary education teaching licensure within this 4-year undergraduate degree minor. For more information about VolsTeach, including advising associated with teaching licensure requirements, contact the Center for Enhancing Education in Mathematics and Science (101 Greve Hall).
Maintaining Good Academic Standing in Teacher Education
To maintain good standing in the Teacher Education Program and to qualify for a degree and/or licensure as a teacher, students must perform adequately both in the university classroom and in the school(s). Students must maintain a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA, establish and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA in their major, and maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA (course grade C or better required) in professional education courses.
Complete information on the teacher licensure program is available through the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences’ website (http://cehhs.utk.edu/), the college’s Office of Advising and Student Services – Bailey Education Complex, A332, or from teaching area faculty.
