How To Become a Teacher in Tennessee 2025

If you want to become one of the more than 64,000 public school teachers in Tennessee, you'll need to follow specific steps for this career path. The state has clear requirements for educators, including specific degrees, certification exams, and licensure. Whether you're thinking about educating elementary students or high schoolers, the following information will help you become a teacher in Tennessee.

Steps To Become a Teacher in Tennessee

To become a teacher in Tennessee, you must satisfy certain state education and licensure requirements. Some of these requirements include completing an accredited teacher preparation program, passing the necessary exams, and obtaining a Tennessee teaching license. Focusing on those credentials is the quickest way to become a teacher.

Step 1: Decide What Subject and Grade Level You Want To Teach

Before beginning your education career, you'll need to pick the grade level and subject that you're most comfortable with and passionate about. Tennessee divides its teaching licenses by grade bands, and each has different coursework and requirements to become a teacher.

Becoming an Elementary School Teacher

As an elementary school teacher, you'll find yourself teaching multiple core subjects, including everything from reading to math and science to students. They teach students from kindergarten through fifth grade.

To become a kindergarten teacher in Tennessee, you'll need to pursue a degree in elementary education. It often includes coursework relating to child development, classroom management, and core subject instruction. You'll also complete student teaching in a relevant classroom environment.

Becoming a Middle School Teacher

Middle school teachers work with students in grades six through eight, and they usually specialize in one or two subject areas. It can include anything from English to science.

Tennessee requires prospective middle school teachers to major in education and also complete subject-specific coursework. As part of middle school teacher educational requirements, you'll also need to pass Praxis exams that fit your teaching content area. Student teaching at the middle-grade level is non-negotiable for licensure.

Becoming a High School Teacher

Grades nine to twelve are where high school teachers specialize. They typically focus on one subject, such as biology, history, or math.

Based on high school teacher educational requirements, you'll need a degree that includes both content-specific classes and teacher preparation coursework. A secondary education program with a focus on your chosen subject matter is ideal, along with relevant student teaching experience.

Step 2: Choose Your Major

Picking the perfect major is a major step toward becoming a teacher in Tennessee. Your major should match the grade level and subject you'd like to teach. For elementary education, a broad-based major prepares you to teach several core subjects.

If you're aiming to teach middle or high school, a major in secondary education paired with a specific subject (e.g., math or biology) is recommended. Focused majors like these provide a more flexible skill set and meet subject-area licensure requirements outlined by the Department of Education.

Plus, specialized degrees can improve your job prospects by qualifying you for high-demand positions or endorsements, such as special education or English as a second language.

Step 3: Earn Your Bachelor's Degree

As part of getting your teacher certification, you must earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Your degree should include a state-approved teacher preparation program designed to fine-tune your teaching skills. Programs like these tend to include coursework in areas such as classroom management, instructional strategies, child development, and educational assessment.

One of the most vital aspects is student teaching, which allows you to work directly in a classroom while being overseen by a licensed educator. Real-world experience helps you apply what you've learned and prepares you for the practical challenges of leading your own classroom during your teaching career.

Step 4: Consider a Master's Degree

While it isn't mandatory, pursuing a master's degree in education can provide sizable benefits for current and aspiring teachers in Tennessee. A master's degree often leads to higher earning potential and access to more advanced job opportunities. It can even make you eligible for leadership positions, such as department head, curriculum specialist, or instructional coach.

Many graduate programs also offer professional development specializations, allowing you to focus on high-demand areas like special education, literacy, or English as a second language. Furthering your expertise can enhance your effectiveness in the classroom and make you a more competitive candidate. Keep in mind that some school districts may require or prefer advanced degrees for specific roles.

Step 5: Pass Tennessee Teaching Exams and Gain Licensure

Before you can get a teaching license in Tennessee, you must first pass the Praxis Subject Assessments that correspond to the grade level and subject you plan on teaching. Additionally, you may be asked to take a pedagogy exam that evaluates your understanding of instructional methods and classroom management.

Once you've met the testing requirements, you'll need to apply for licensure through the Tennessee Department of Education. Your application needs to include official college transcripts, documentation of completed teacher preparation coursework, and your passing Praxis scores. Satisfying these requirements will lead to your status as a qualified teacher in Tennessee's public schools.

Step 6: Apply for Teaching Jobs

After you have your teaching license in hand, you can start the process of applying for positions in public and private schools across the state. Spend some time perfecting a professional resume that emphasizes your education degree, student teaching experience, and basic skills of relevance.

Having several letters of recommendation from professors or mentor teachers can go a long way toward reinforcing your expertise. It's also helpful to practice your interview techniques to make the best first impression as a prospective teacher.

Job openings are commonly posted on the Tennessee Department of Education website and local school district portals. Try to apply early, particularly for high-demand teaching positions, such as those relating to special education or English as a Second Language.

How To Choose the Right Teaching Degree Program

The proper teaching degree program can make all the difference in your educational career. Begin by double-checking whether or not the program is accredited and approved by the Tennessee Department of Education.

Look for a program structure that fits your learning style and timeline, whether it's traditional or online, as well as part-time versus full-time. If you know what grade level or subject you want to teach, select a program with coursework and licensure tracks that match your goals.

Strong partnerships with local schools are also not to be underestimated, as they provide quality student teaching placements. Some programs may offer dual licensure or specialization options to expand your opportunities.

FAQs About Becoming a Teacher in Tennessee

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about becoming a certified teacher in Tennessee. Whether you're considering a career pivot or just starting out, these insights can help you on your path.

What Degree Do You Need To Be a Teacher in Tennessee?

To teach in Tennessee, you must hold at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The degree must include a state-approved teacher preparation program, with coursework and student teaching.

Your major should be relevant to your intended teaching subject or grade level. Doing this will help you meet licensure requirements and prepare you effectively.

Do Requirements Differ at Private Schools and Public Schools?

In most cases, private and public schools in Tennessee have separate hiring standards. Public schools ask for state licensure and completion of a teacher preparation program.

Private schools, on the other hand, may set their own criteria and sometimes hire teachers without state certification. This is especially true in subjects where candidates hold specialized degrees or have relevant experience.

How Do I Become an Elementary School Teacher in Tennessee?

Anyone who wants to work as an elementary school teacher should earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education. To become a teacher in Tennessee, remember to complete student teaching and pass the required Praxis exams. Once all requirements are met, you can apply for a teaching license through the Tennessee Department of Education and launch your teaching career.

How Fast Can You Become a Certified Teacher in Tennessee?

The traditional path takes around four years, which accounts for the time it takes to earn a bachelor's degree with a teacher preparation component. However, Tennessee also offers alternative licensure programs. Such options can allow qualified individuals to begin teaching sooner while completing certification requirements on the job, depending on eligibility.

Pursue Your Teaching Certificate

Becoming a teacher in Tennessee can be a streamlined process that begins with selecting your teaching path and culminates in state licensure. With the right degree, preparation, and dedication, you can make a vast difference in students' lives. Start your teaching career by exploring accredited programs on Learn.org.