As a social studies teacher, you’ll help youth navigate a vast world of people and cultures—to arrive at a better understanding of their place in society. You’ll show them the value of having a voice in government, knowing their roots, and working for the welfare of others.

Why choose Middle Grades Education - Social Science at Saint Leo?

Learn innovative methods to teach history, geography, government and economics, with an emphasis on a multicultural and pro-social education. Create lesson plans that foster curiosity and respect for diversity—and try them out in the classroom as a student teacher. Discover how to enhance learning with emerging technologies.

Accumulate more than 800 hours of field experience by the end of your senior year—almost double the hours recommended by the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education. By the time you graduate, you’ll be well equipped to command a classroom of your own as a Florida State-certified social science teacher.

Wherever you are in life’s journey, Saint Leo will meet you there—and help you take the next steps in your career. Education Center courses are designed with flexibility for the working professional, and with the same academic rigor as our University Campus classes.

Some amazing classes you can take

• Social Studies Methods in Middle School
• ESOL Foundations
• Intro to Physical & Cultural Geography
• American Federal Government
• Practicum in Teaching Middle School

Professional development opportunities

• Florida Teacher Certification: Middle Grades majors are required to take the Subject Area Exam for grades 5-9. All graduates are also eligible to receive certification in the secondary grades after passing the additional Subject Area Exam for grades 6-12 of the Florida Teacher Certification Exam. Graduates from Saint Leo's state-approved program are also eligible for the Florida DOE Reading Endorsement.
• Student teaching: Hone your skills through no less than four field placements, including teaching fulltime in a middle school one semester your senior year.
• Professional seminar: Prepare yourself for the job market: Create your resume, meet with school district representatives to learn about the application process, participate in mock interviews with school principals and district administrators.
• National reputation: In 2011, Saint Leo's Education department was named a national finalist for the Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award, presented by the Association of Teacher Educators. And, according to a recent survey, between 92-98% of school principals who've had a Saint Leo grad and first-year teacher at their school report that they'd provide a positive recommendation for hiring.

What can you do with a degree in Middle Grades Education – Social Science?

Graduates are qualified to obtain teaching certification for grades 5-12. Possible job routes include:

• Social Science Teacher
• Social Science Tutor
• Reading Coach
• ESOL Specialist
• Instructional Designer
• Principal
• Textbook Editor
• Researcher

Where are Saint Leo Middle Grades Education grads now?

Our students find success as certified teachers in school districts around Florida and outside of the state, thanks to interstate agreements between the Florida Department of Education and many states.

Saint Leo graduates often assume leadership positions in their schools—as team leaders and department chairs—within three to four years of employment. Many Saint Leo graduates have been recognized as Teachers of the Year for their schools and even their entire school districts.

Admissions Information

You may declare the Middle Grades Education major when you begin coursework at Saint Leo University. However, to be formally admitted to the program, you must complete a major application once you fulfill general education requirements.