Major Specializations: Choosing Wisely for LET Success
Your major specialization can make or break your LET secondary level dreams. Unlike elementary teachers who need broad knowledge, secondary teachers must prove deep expertise in their chosen field.
Introduction
If you're preparing for the LET secondary level, congratulations! You're stepping into the big leagues. Unlike elementary teachers who need to know a little about everything, secondary teachers must prove deep expertise in their chosen field.
Your major specialization isn't just another exam component—it's your professional identity as a teacher. It comprises 40% of your total LET score, equal to Professional Education.
But here's the thing: with great specialization comes great responsibility. Choose wrong, and you might struggle with content that doesn't align with your strengths. Choose right, and you've got a competitive advantage that can secure your teaching license.
Complete List of LET Major Specializations
According to the Professional Regulation Commission's Enhanced Table of Specifications, secondary level LET candidates can choose from these major specializations:
Language & Literature Specializations
English Major
- • Remedial Instruction in English
- • English for Specific Purposes
- • Theoretical Foundations of Language & Literature
- • Introduction to Linguistics & Structure of English
- • Literary Criticism and Stylistics
- • Mythology, Folklore, and World Literature
- • Teaching Methodology and Assessment
- • Creative Writing and Campus Journalism
Filipino Major
- • Mga Batayang Teoretikal (Theoretical Foundations)
- • Introduksyon sa Pag-aaral ng Wika at Linggwistika
- • Wika at Panitikan (Language and Literature)
- • Metodolohiya at Pagtataya (Methodology & Assessment)
STEM Specializations
Mathematics Major
- • Arithmetic, Number Theory, Business Math
- • Basic and Advanced Algebra
- • Plane and Solid Geometry
- • Trigonometry & Analytical Geometry
- • Calculus and Modern Geometry
- • Probability, Statistics, Linear Algebra
- • Mathematical Problem Solving
Biological Science Major
- • General Biology I and II
- • Cell Biology and Genetics
- • Ecology and Evolution
- • Microbiology and Biochemistry
- • Chemistry (Inorganic & Organic)
- • Anatomy and Physiology
Physical Science Major
- • Chemistry: Atomic structure, Bonds, Thermodynamics
- • Physics: Mechanics, Electricity, Magnetism
- • Modern Physics
- • Earth and Space Science
- • Astronomy and Environmental Science
Social Sciences & Humanities
Social Studies/Social Science Major
- • World History and Civilization
- • Asian Studies and Philippine History
- • Geography and Sociology
- • Political Science and Economics
- • Research and Assessment Methods
Values Education Major
- • Philosophical and Ethical Foundations
- • Personhood & Psycho-spiritual Development
- • Family Life and Filipino Values
- • Human Rights and Global Education
- • Community Service and Work Ethics
Specialized Fields
MAPEH Major
- • Music: Philippine & Asian Music, Theory, Conducting
- • Arts: Art Education and Visual Arts
- • PE: Anatomy, Sports, Dance, Health Ed
- • Health: Personal & Community Health, Safety
Agriculture & Fishery Arts Major
- • Farm Animals and Fish Breeds
- • Agricultural & Fishery Management
- • Marketing and Entrepreneurship
- • Pest and Disease Management
Technology & Livelihood Education (TLE)
- • Basic Drafting and Electricity
- • Carpentry, Masonry, and Plumbing
- • Electronics and Business Mathematics
- • Cosmetology and Food Technology
How to Choose Your Major Specialization Strategically
Align with Your College Degree
This seems obvious, but you'd be surprised how many LET examinees try to choose based on perceived "easier" options rather than their actual preparation. If you graduated with a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics, stick with Math. Your four years of college preparation is your biggest advantage.
Consider the Job Market
Let's be practical about teacher employment in the Philippines. Mathematics and Science teachers are consistently in high demand. English teachers have opportunities in both public and private schools. TLE teachers are increasingly needed as DepEd emphasizes technical skills. MAPEH teachers face more competition due to the integrated nature of the subject.
Assess Your Genuine Strengths and Interests
Don't choose Mathematics just because there's demand if you struggle with advanced calculus. The LET major specialization exam goes deep. You need solid foundation and genuine understanding, not just memorized formulas.
Research the Specific Coverage
Each specialization has extensive coverage. Physical Science, for example, covers both Chemistry and Physics comprehensively. Make sure you're prepared for the breadth and depth required.
Preparation Strategies by Major Type
For Language Majors (English/Filipino)
- • Focus on methodology: These majors heavily test teaching approaches and language pedagogy
- • Study literature comprehensively: Don't just read summaries! Understand themes, contexts, and literary criticism
- • Practice linguistic analysis: Know your grammar, syntax, and language structures inside out
For Mathematics Major
- • Master problem-solving techniques: It's not just about knowing formulas—you need to apply them efficiently
- • Review from basic to advanced: The exam can test anything from elementary algebra to calculus
- • Practice time management: Math problems can be time-consuming during the actual exam
For Science Majors
- • Connect theory to practical applications: Science teaching requires understanding how concepts apply to real-world situations
- • Review laboratory procedures: Even if it's not hands-on, you need to understand experimental design and analysis
- • Stay updated with current developments: The exam may include contemporary science topics
For Social Science Major
- • Memorize key dates, names, and events: There's no shortcut for historical facts and geographical data
- • Understand cause-and-effect relationships: Social science isn't just about memorizing but understanding connections
- • Study Philippine context thoroughly: Local history, politics, and economics are heavily emphasized
For MAPEH Major
- • Prepare for the integrated approach: You need competency across all four areas: Music, Arts, PE, and Health
- • Practice skills-based questions: MAPEH includes practical applications, not just theoretical knowledge
- • Know the Philippine context: Filipino folk dances, indigenous music, and local health issues are exam favorites
Common Major Specialization Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating the Depth Required
Your college major gave you exposure, but the LET tests mastery. Review comprehensively, even topics you think you know well.
Focusing Only on Content, Ignoring Methodology
Every major includes teaching methods and assessment strategies specific to that subject area.
Last-Minute Switching
Some examinees panic and try to switch majors close to the exam date. Bad idea. Stick with your preparation plan.
Ignoring Interdisciplinary Connections
Modern education emphasizes integration. Science connects to mathematics, language arts connect to social studies, etc.
Your Major Specialization Success Plan
Research Thoroughly
Get the official Table of Specifications from the PRC and study every topic listed under your chosen major.
Create a Comprehensive Review Timeline
Major specializations require months, not weeks, of focused preparation.
Find Quality Review Materials
Generic LET reviewers often provide superficial coverage of major subjects. Invest in specialized materials for your chosen field.
Connect with Teachers in Your Field
Join professional organizations, online groups, and review communities specific to your major. Learning from experienced teachers can provide insights you won't find in textbooks.
Conclusion: Your Expertise Matters
Choosing and preparing for your LET major specialization is one of the most important decisions you'll make in your teaching career journey. It determines not just whether you pass the exam, but what kind of teacher you'll become.
The secondary level LET recognizes that students deserve teachers who are true experts in their fields. Your major specialization proves that you have the depth of knowledge needed to guide students through complex subject matter and prepare them for their own future success.
Choose wisely, prepare thoroughly, and remember: your specialization is your professional signature as an educator. Make it count.
Exam Coverage
Understanding the complete scope of the LET examination.
Major Specializations: Choosing and Preparing Wisely