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Social Science Education (Grades 6–12)

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Degree Type:
Graduate
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Bring Social Studies to Life with a TROY Master's in Social Science Education

Whether you're already teaching social studies or exploring a new path into the classroom, Troy University's Master of Science in Education in Secondary Social Science Education (Grades 6–12) offers the preparation you need to succeed. Choose the traditional track if you're already certified to teach or pursue the Alternative-A track to earn your teaching license through a supervised internship. Offered online and on campus, this master's in social science education combines advanced coursework with real-world experience, preparing you for secondary social studies teaching jobs in both middle and high school settings.

A TROY professor leads a classroom discussion with education students.

Deepen Your Expertise in Social Studies Education

If you're already teaching and want to build your expertise in social studies, the traditional track at TROY gives you the opportunity to specialize through a social science education degree at the graduate level. You'll take courses in curriculum design, instructional methods and classroom strategies tailored to grades 6–12. You'll strengthen your instruction, fulfill recertification requirements and prepare to step into leadership roles in secondary schools. You'll also gain tools you can use right away to engage students and bring social studies to life in your classroom.

How to Become a Social Studies Teacher

If you're new to teaching, the Alternative-A track at TROY offers a direct path into the profession. Designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than education — or those seeking certification in a new teaching field — this program combines foundational coursework with a school-based internship where you'll learn to teach social studies in grades 6–12. You'll build instructional skills, gain classroom experience, and prepare for certification. Whether you choose the master's in social studies education online or on campus — or a blend of both — you'll be ready to make an impact in today's schools.

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Master's in Social Science Education Curriculum

While specific courses may vary from year to year, your social science education degree coursework may include:

Master's in Social Science Education Locations

Get the flexibility you need by earning your master's in social studies education online, in class or through a blend of both. For more information about program availability and delivery options, call 1-800-414-5756.

Build Specialized Skills with the Social Science Education Degree

TROY's social science specialization equips you to teach critical thinking, civic literacy and historical analysis through engaging social studies instruction. As you complete graduate coursework, you'll strengthen your skills in curriculum planning, instructional methods, classroom management and educational technology, all tailored to grades 6–12. Whether you're advancing your teaching practice or preparing to enter the classroom, this program offers the depth and structure you expect from leading social studies education master's programs.

Hawkins Hall located on the Troy Campus.

Careers with a Master's in Social Science Education

Through TROY's program, you'll be prepared for a range of roles in secondary education and related fields. This degree supports classroom teaching and opens doors to opportunities in curriculum development, instructional coaching and educational consulting. It also provides a strong foundation for advanced study, including an Ed.S. in social studies education or an Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction. If you want to pursue secondary social studies teaching jobs, this graduate program equips you with the skills and credentials to succeed.

Faculty Profiles

Sharon Lindhorst Everhardt, Ph.D.

Sharon Lindhorst Everhardt, Ph.D.

Dr. Sharon Lindhorst Everhardt is an associate professor of sociology and the director of the TROY–Tutwiler Garden Project. Her main research interests include race, class and gender with a focus on disenfranchised populations of women. In 2020, Dr. Everhardt earned certification as an AACS clinical sociologist who helps organizations and institutions resolve social issues related to the human condition.
Dr. Joseph Johnson

Dr. Joseph Johnson

Dr. Joseph Johnson is the chair of the Teacher Education Department at TROY. Dr. Johnson is TROY's leader for edTPA preparation and has more than 13 years of experience teaching in secondary schools and 13 more in higher education. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and teaches undergraduate and graduate student teaching seminars.

Teaching Fields

Interested in teaching a different subject area? Alongside the social science concentration, TROY's master's in secondary education program offers other specializations designed to match your academic strengths and professional goals. Each option prepares you to teach grades 6–12 and supports your growth as an educator. If you already hold a teaching certificate, the traditional track is for you. If you're pursuing certification, the Alternative-A Track includes a classroom-based internship to help you gain practical experience.
Biology

If you want to help students explore the life sciences, the biology concentration prepares you to teach biology in grades 6–12 and support science learning throughout your school.

English Language Arts

If you enjoy literature, writing and communication, the English language arts concentration prepares you to teach English in grades 6–12 and also teach topics like journalism or drama.

History

If you're passionate about exploring the past and helping students understand its relevance today, this concentration helps you build deep content knowledge while learning how to engage students in historical thinking and analysis.

Mathematics

If you want to guide students in developing strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, this concentration prepares you to teach math in grades 6–12 and take on leadership roles in your school or district.

FAQ About TROY's Social Science Education Degree

Learn more about the field of social science and our program.
What is social science education?

Social science education focuses on teaching subjects like history, civics, geography and economics to help students understand human behavior and society. In TROY's M.S.Ed. in secondary social science education, you'll learn how to create lessons that foster critical thinking, civic responsibility and cultural understanding.

How can this program help me become a certified social studies teacher?

If you're wondering how to become a social studies teacher, TROY's Alternative-A track offers a direct path to licensure. You'll complete graduate coursework and a school-based internship to prepare for teaching in grades 6–12. If you're already certified, the traditional track of this social science education degree helps you build subject knowledge and strengthen your instructional skills.

What can I do with a master's in social science education?

With TROY's M.S.Ed. in secondary social science education, you'll be qualified for classroom teaching roles in grades 6–12 and may also pursue opportunities in curriculum development, instructional coaching and leadership. TROY's graduate degree is among social studies education master's programs that support long-term goals like earning an Ed.S. or Ed.D. 

Is the master's in social studies education online the same as the on-campus version?

Yes. Whether you enroll in TROY's on-campus program or the master's in social studies education online, you'll complete the same coursework, meet the same certification requirements and learn from experienced faculty. The online format offers added flexibility for working professionals or those entering the field.

How does this degree prepare me for secondary social studies teaching jobs?

TROY's M.S.Ed. program prepares you to teach grades 6–12 by building your skills in curriculum planning, classroom management and educational technology. Whether you're entering the profession or advancing your career, this degree equips you for success in secondary social studies teaching jobs and leadership roles. 

News

With TROY’s master’s degree in social sciences, you’ll develop advanced research and communication skills and a deep understanding of your discipline.

What Are The Social Sciences?

Dr. Stephen Carmody, Chair of the Department of Anthropology, Sociology and Criminology at Troy University, says the social sciences are sometimes misunderstood. “What are the social sciences?” is one of the most common questions he fields.

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