How To Become a High School Teacher in Minnesota 2025

If you're interested in helping teens learn and grow, becoming a high school teacher in Minnesota could be a rewarding career path. Understanding a high school teacher's educational requirements is the first step.

Whether you're just starting college or switching careers, this article explains exactly how to become a high school teacher, from earning your degree to applying for a state license. You'll also find salary details, job outlook data, and financial aid options to help you plan your future as a high school teacher.

What Does a High School Teacher Do?

High school teachers in Minnesota help students build subject knowledge and prepare for life after graduation. They teach core academic subjects like math, science, English, and social studies, as well as electives and career-focused courses. In addition to classroom instruction, teachers support students' social development, monitor academic progress, and help them plan for college or careers. You may also lead extracurricular activities or collaborate with families and school staff to meet students' needs.

Common high school teacher responsibilities include:

• prepare lessons
• develop and grade assignments and exams
• deliver classroom instruction
• manage student behavior
• communicate with parents or guardians
• adapt instruction for students with learning needs
• supervise extracurricular activities
• attend faculty meetings and training sessions

How To Become a High School Teacher in Minnesota

To become a licensed high school teacher in Minnesota, you'll need to meet the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) requirements. This typically includes completing a teacher preparation program, passing required exams, and applying for licensure. Whether you're a new college student or switching careers, there are multiple types of high school teachers and licensure pathways to explore.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree With Teacher Preparation

You must first earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. If you're just starting your education, you can choose a program that includes both subject-area coursework and teacher training. Many schools in Minnesota offer education degrees that combine these components into a single program.

If you already have a degree, you can pursue a licensure-only or alternative pathway that helps you complete teacher preparation separately. All preparation programs must be approved by PELSB, and they typically include coursework in instructional methods, student development, and classroom management.

Step 2: Complete Student Teaching or Field Experience

To qualify for a Tier 3 teaching license, you need to complete 12 weeks of full-time student teaching in a Minnesota school. This requirement gives you hands-on experience leading a classroom under the supervision of a licensed teacher and university faculty.

During this time, you'll practice everything from lesson planning to classroom management. Student teaching is considered the final step of your teacher preparation program and must be completed before you apply for standard licensure.

Step 3: Pass the Required Licensure Exams

All high school teachers in Minnesota must pass licensure exams before receiving a Tier 3 license. These exams include the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE), which assess content knowledge and pedagogy.

You'll typically need to take three types of tests: basic skills, content-area knowledge, and pedagogy exams. The MTLE ensures that teachers are prepared to instruct students in their chosen subject area and meet statewide teaching standards.

Step 4: Apply for a Minnesota Tier 3 License

After completing your degree, student teaching, and exams, you can apply for a Tier 3 license through the PELSB online system. You'll need to provide official transcripts, test scores, and a recommendation from your teacher preparation program.

The Tier 3 license is valid for three years and is renewable. It qualifies you to teach in a Minnesota public school as the teacher of record in your endorsed subject area. Most new teachers start with Tier 3 after completing traditional preparation.

Step 5: Maintain or Upgrade Your License

Once you're teaching, you'll need to renew your license every three years. You can do this by meeting continuing education requirements and staying in good standing with PELSB. If you complete additional qualifications, you can also apply for a Tier 4 license.

The Tier 4 license is valid for five years and offers greater flexibility. To qualify, you must have taught for at least three years, completed a mentorship program, and earned positive evaluations during your time in the classroom.

Education Degree Programs in Minnesota

Several public universities in Minnesota offer education degree programs that prepare you to meet the state's licensure requirements for high school teachers. These programs include subject-specific coursework, student teaching placements, and faculty support to help you transition into the classroom. Explore the schools below to find the right fit for your goals and budget.

Minnesota State University, Mankato

Minnesota State University, Mankato offers a variety of K-12 and secondary teaching programs that lead to initial licensure. Students can pursue degrees in areas like communication arts, mathematics, science, and social studies while completing the professional education sequence. The programs focus on culturally responsive teaching and includes multiple field experiences to build classroom confidence.

Coursework blends theory and practice, with topics in instructional design, classroom management, and technology integration. A semester-long student teaching placement is required in a Minnesota school. Graduates are eligible to apply for a Tier 3 teaching license upon completion of program requirements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,572 (in-state); $10,490 to $18,942 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

St. Cloud State University

St. Cloud State University offers teacher education programs that prepare students for licensure in secondary education subjects. Programs are available for aspiring teachers in English, math, science, social studies, and more. Each program includes general education coursework, content-area studies, and professional education requirements.

Students gain practical experience through field placements and a full semester of student teaching. The university partners with school districts across Minnesota to support in-classroom learning. Advising services help students track their licensure progress and prepare for the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE).

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,386 (in-state); $9,396 to $19,912 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Bemidji State University

Bemidji State University provides licensure pathways for students pursuing secondary education in areas such as science, math, English, and social studies. Students complete a bachelor's degree alongside teacher preparation coursework that focuses on instructional methods and classroom technology.

The program includes practicum experiences in diverse school settings and a final semester of student teaching. Faculty and field supervisors guide students through the licensure process, ensuring they meet all state standards for becoming a high school teacher.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,994 (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Winona State University

Winona State University offers undergraduate education programs that support students in earning their initial teaching license. Students select a content area and complete required coursework in pedagogy, assessment, and adolescent development. Programs include preparation for high-need fields like special education and STEM subjects.

A structured clinical placement program ensures that students gain real-world experience in classrooms. Winona State works closely with local schools to provide supportive teaching environments for student teachers.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,387.50 (in-state); $8,387.50 to $15,119.70 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Metro State University

Metro State University's urban education program prepares students to teach in diverse, urban school settings. The program focuses on equity, cultural responsiveness, and closing opportunity gaps. Students can pursue licensure in subjects such as English, math, life sciences, and social studies while earning a bachelor's degree.

Fieldwork is integrated throughout the program and includes a student teaching semester in a partner school. Metro State supports licensure candidates through advising, mentorship, and preparation for state exams like the MTLE.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,840 (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

How Much Does a High School Teacher Make in Minnesota?

The average high school teacher salary in Minnesota is $70,170 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries can vary based on your subject area, years of experience, and school district. Teachers working in urban districts like Minneapolis or St. Paul may earn more than those in rural areas due to cost of living differences and district funding levels.

Entry-level teachers typically start with salaries in the low $50,000s, while experienced educators or those with advanced degrees may earn more than $90,000 annually.

Job Outlook for High School Teachers in Minnesota

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of high school teachers is projected to grow less than 1% nationally until 2033. In Minnesota, demand for teachers remains as is due to teacher retirements and subject-area shortages in science, math, and special education.

Rural and low-income districts may have the highest need for qualified educators. Aspiring teachers who specialize in high-demand subjects or are open to teaching in underserved areas will likely have stronger job prospects.

Financial Aid for High School Teacher Programs

Students preparing to become high school teachers in Minnesota may qualify for multiple types of financial aid. Federal aid, including Pell Grants and TEACH Grants, can help cover the cost of a teacher preparation program if you commit to teaching in a high-need subject or low-income school.

Minnesota also offers state-specific options, like the Minnesota Student Teacher Grant for students pursuing teaching degrees in high-demand fields. Additional support is available through the Minnesota Teacher Shortage Loan Forgiveness Program, which helps repay student loans for licensed teachers who work in shortage areas. Students should also explore scholarships through individual colleges and school-based financial aid offices.

FAQs About Becoming a High School Teacher in Minnesota

If you're considering a teaching career in Minnesota, you may have questions about the time it takes to get licensed, the types of degrees you need, and what to expect from the job. Below are answers to common questions to help you understand the process and plan your path to the classroom.

How Long Does It Take To Become a High School Teacher in Minnesota?

It usually takes four to six years to become a high school teacher in Minnesota. Most people complete a bachelor's degree with a teacher preparation program in about four years. If you already hold a degree, an alternative licensure program can take one to two additional years, depending on the subject area and coursework needed.

Do You Need a Master's Degree To Teach High School in Minnesota?

No, a master's degree is not required to become a licensed high school teacher in Minnesota. Most teachers qualify for a Tier 3 license with a bachelor's degree and a completed teacher preparation program. However, some teachers pursue a master's later to increase their salary or move into leadership roles.

Can You Teach in Minnesota With an Out-of-State License?

Yes, but you must apply for a Minnesota teaching license through PELSB. If you meet certain criteria, such as holding a comparable license and having teaching experience, you may qualify for a Tier 3 or Tier 4 license. Additional testing or coursework may be required depending on your background.

What Subjects Are in Highest Demand for Teachers in Minnesota?

Subjects with the greatest need include mathematics, science, special education, English as a Second Language (ESL), and career and technical education. Teachers in these areas may qualify for loan forgiveness or extra support from state and federal programs aimed at filling shortages.

Can You Become a High School Teacher Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes, through Minnesota's alternative licensure pathways. If you have a bachelor's degree in a subject you want to teach, you can enroll in a post-baccalaureate teacher preparation program. These programs allow you to complete the coursework and student teaching required for a Tier 3 license.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Minnesota

If you are ready to take the next step toward the classroom, browse accredited teaching degrees at colleges across Minnesota on Learn.org and find a program that fits your goals.