In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships and aid for your degree in Speech Education.
Speech Education (7-12)
About
You love language and communication, but have you ever thought of teaching the art of speech and articulation? Combine your desire to teach with the passion you have for all kinds of communication, including discussion and argumentation, rhetoric, interpersonal, even communication theory and processes. With a Speech Education degree from Wayne State, you’ll be able to teach Speech Communication in grades 7-12. You’ll be prepared to direct junior high and high school speech activities and keep the importance of intriguing speech and communication alive.
Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Fast Facts
Degrees offered: B.A., B.S.
In addition to choosing the Speech supplemental endorsement, you will also need to select one field endorsement or two subject endorsements to receive your B.A. or B.S.
Hours required:
For supplemental endorsement: 21
Professional education: 27-33
General education: 30
To graduate from WSC: 120 hours minimum (education programs may require more)
Popular pairings: Theatre Education (7-12), Middle Level Education (5-9)
Schools: Arts and Humanities, Education and Behavioral Sciences
Departments: Communication Arts, Educational Foundations and Leadership
Accreditation: Council of Accreditation for Educator Preparation (CAEP), Nebraska Department of Education
Licensing and Certification: Wayne State academic programs are designed to prepare students for licensure or certification in Nebraska. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Nebraska, please check that state's licensing board to determine their licensing requirements. Authorization may be required from them prior to beginning a clinical or field experience in that state. Learn more.
Our Focus is Results
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world.
Skills Learned
- Teaching and instruction
- Classroom management and leadership
- Presentation and public speaking
- Interpersonal communication
- Critical thinking and reasoning
- Persuasion, argumentation, and advocacy
- Organizational communication and leadership
- Intercultural communication
- Directing communication activities
- Professional standards and ethics
- Cultural awareness and civic engagement
Possible Careers
- Speech teacher
- Public relations teacher
- Professional speaker/presenter
- Public relations specialist
- Event planner
- Speechwriter
- Actor, announcer, or on-air personality
- Marketing or advertising
- Writer or journalist
- Business/organization representative
- Foreign relations
Employers
- Public schools
- Private schools
- Public relations firms
- Communication companies
- Media companies
- Event planning companies
- Marketing or advertising agencies
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
Learn From the Best
Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the Speech Education degree program.
Raihan Jamil
Assistant Professor
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, internships, and more.
Clubs and Organizations
- Drama Club
- Forensics Team (competitive speech team)
- Kappa Delta Pi (education honor society)
- KWSC Studios (TV and video production)
- Lambda Pi Eta (communication honor society)
- Film Club
- Nebraska State Education Association (NSEA) Aspiring Educators
- PR in Action
Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.
Opportunities
- Northeast Nebraska Teacher Academy (NENTA) - Develop your classroom skills and get paid at the same time.
- Workshops - Communication and theater arts workshops will give you firsthand experience and help you develop your skills to prepare yourself for a career in these fields.
- Trips, conferences, and more – Attend communication conferences and presentations, and participate in leadership opportunities.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
Clinical Practice
With an education endorsement in Speech Communication, you will complete a semester of clinical practice in a school district chosen with the help of your advisor. During this semester, you will work closely with an experienced teacher to gain classroom experience. Internships are not required as part of this program; however, Career Services is available to help students find employment opportunities.