Career roadmap
How to Become a Middle School Teacher
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a middle school teacher, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a middle school teacher: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete a teacher preparation program, (3) pass licensing exams, (4) get licensed, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years plus licensing. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a middle school teacher
Earn a bachelor’s degree
In education or your subject.
Complete a teacher preparation program
Including student teaching.
Pass licensing exams
Subject and teaching tests.
Get licensed
Apply for state certification.
Advance
Lead departments, coach or move into administration.
Education and training requirements
Public school teachers need a bachelor’s degree, a teacher preparation program and a state license with subject endorsements.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years plus licensing |
Certifications and licenses
- State teaching license: Required for public school teaching.
- Subject endorsement: Certification in math, science, English or other subjects.
- Praxis subject exams: Content knowledge tests.
- National Board Certification: Advanced teaching credential.
Skills to build now
Start with subject expertise, lesson planning, and classroom management, and practice patience and humor. Learning the middle school teacher vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Student Teacher: Learn to teach.
- Middle School Teacher: Teach your subject.
- Department Chair or Team Leader: Lead teachers.
- Assistant Principal or Principal: Lead schools.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Middle School Teacher training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Can I teach with a degree in my subject?
Yes, through teacher preparation or alternative certification.
How long does it take to become a middle school teacher?
Most people need about 4 years plus licensing of training. Public school teachers need a bachelor’s degree, a teacher preparation program and a state license with subject endorsements.
Do you need a degree to be a middle school teacher?
Yes, for public schools. Middle school teachers need a bachelor’s degree and a state license with subject endorsements, though alternative certification can help career changers.
What certifications are available for middle school teachers?
Common credentials include State teaching license, Subject endorsement, Praxis subject exams, and National Board Certification. Public school teachers must be licensed by their state, usually with endorsements in the subjects they teach.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-2022 (Middle school teachers, except special and career/technical education).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Middle school teachers, except special and career/technical education (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.