How To Become a High School Teacher in Tennessee 2025

Teaching high school in Tennessee offers a chance to make a lasting impact on students preparing for college, careers, and adulthood. To get started, you'll need to meet the high school teacher educational requirements set by the state, including earning a degree, completing a licensure program, and passing certification exams.

If you're ready to learn how to become a high school teacher, we'll unpack everything you need to know about teacher responsibilities, state-approved degree programs, financial aid, and more. Continue reading to discover the next steps.

What Does a High School Teacher Do?

High school teachers help students gain the skills and knowledge needed to graduate and prepare for college or careers. They typically teach one subject, such as English, math, history, or biology, and work with students in grades nine through 12. In Tennessee, high school teachers must follow state curriculum standards and help students meet learning benchmarks.

Teachers are also responsible for classroom management, lesson planning, student assessment, and working with families and school staff.

Typical expectations and high school teacher responsibilities are:

• prepare lessons
• create and grade assignments and exams
• adapt instruction for different learning styles
• monitor student progress and behavior
• provide academic and emotional support
• communicate with families and counselors
• attend faculty meetings and trainings
• meet Tennessee academic standards

How To Become a High School Teacher in Tennessee

To become a licensed high school teacher in Tennessee, you must meet the Tennessee Department of Education's licensure requirements. This includes earning a degree, completing a state-approved educator preparation program, passing exams, and applying for a license. The process prepares you to work with students in grades seven through 12.

You'll also need to decide the type of high school teacher you want to become and choose a subject area that aligns with your academic strengths.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

The first step is to complete a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Most students pursue a degree in education or in the subject they want to teach, such as English, math, or science. Many programs in Tennessee offer a pathway that includes both the subject matter and teaching preparation.

If your degree does not include teaching coursework, you will need to complete a separate educator preparation program after graduation. Your degree should also include general education courses, as required by Tennessee licensure standards.

Step 2: Complete an Educator Preparation Program

Tennessee requires all new teachers to complete a state-approved educator preparation program. These programs provide training in instructional methods, classroom management, and adolescent development. They also include a student teaching experience in a real classroom under the supervision of a licensed teacher.

Many undergraduate education degrees in Tennessee include the preparation program as part of the curriculum. If you already have a bachelor's degree, you can complete this step through a post-baccalaureate or master's-level licensure program.

Step 3: Pass the Required Licensure Exams

To qualify for a Tennessee teaching license, you must pass all required Praxis exams. These include a subject-specific content knowledge test and, in some cases, a pedagogy assessment. Your educator preparation program will help determine which exams are required based on your grade level and subject area.

Exam requirements may vary by content area, so it's important to check the Tennessee Department of Education's list of required tests. Passing scores must be submitted before you can apply for your license.

Step 4: Apply for a Tennessee Practitioner License

Once you've completed your degree, educator preparation program, and exams, you can apply for your initial license, known as the Practitioner License. This license is valid for three years and allows you to teach in public schools across Tennessee.

To apply, you'll submit documentation through the TNCompass online portal. This includes transcripts, test scores, and verification from your preparation program. After three years, you can apply to advance to a Professional License by meeting additional requirements.

Education Degree Programs in Tennessee

Several public universities in Tennessee offer education degrees that prepare students for high school teaching licensure. Below are some of the most accessible and affordable options.

Middle Tennessee State University

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in secondary education that prepares students to teach in grades seven through 12. Students choose a content specialization, such as English, biology, mathematics, or history, and complete education coursework that meets licensure requirements.

The program includes early classroom observations, methods courses, and a full semester of student teaching. MTSU supports students through academic advising, exam prep, and career services that help future teachers enter the Tennessee school system with confidence.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,814 (in-state); $31,674 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University (ETSU)'s BS in secondary education offers concentrations in various content areas, including English, mathematics, and science. The program prepares students to teach in grades six through 12 and includes a full sequence of education courses and clinical experiences.

Students participate in fieldwork during their junior year and complete student teaching during their final semester. ETSU works closely with local school systems to place students in diverse classroom settings that support their professional development.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,472 (in-state); $11,342 (KY, VA, NC, SC, GA); $14,552 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

Tennessee Technological University

The BS in secondary education at Tennessee Technological University (TTU) covers instructional design, differentiated learning, and real-world teaching strategies for grades seven through 12.

Here, you'll complete practicum experiences in local classrooms and work with mentor teachers throughout your time in the program. The final semester includes full-time student teaching and licensure preparation. TTU also provides MTEL support and resources for graduates entering the job market.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,963 (in-state); $7,793 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Future high school teachers enrolled at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) can pursue a BS in secondary education through the School of Education. Students combine content-area coursework with classes in teaching methods, educational psychology, and curriculum planning for grades six through 12.

Field experiences begin early and progress toward a capstone student teaching placement. UTC also offers academic advising, Praxis exam preparation, and job placement support to help students succeed after graduation.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,448 (in-state); $18,512 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University (APSU) prepares future high school teachers through its BS in secondary education program. You'll choose a subject focus such as English, history, or math, and receive training in instructional techniques aligned with Tennessee standards.

The program includes multiple field experiences, beginning with classroom observations and leading up to a semester-long student teaching assignment. APSU also offers tutoring, MTEL support, and career guidance to help graduates transition into certified teaching roles.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,720 (in-state); $15,480 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How Much Does a High School Teacher Make in Tennessee?

The average high school teacher salary in Tennessee is $58,780 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is slightly below the national average but reflects Tennessee's cost of living and school district funding levels. Salaries can increase with years of experience, graduate degrees, or certifications in high-need subjects like math or science.

Teachers in urban areas such as Nashville and Memphis may earn higher wages due to regional pay scales. Public school teachers also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off.

Job Outlook for High School Teachers in Tennessee

The job outlook for high school teachers in Tennessee is steady, with demand continuing across the state. The BLS projects a 4% increase in high school teacher employment nationwide from 2022 to 2032. In Tennessee, growth is expected to remain consistent due to retirements and ongoing teacher shortages in certain areas.

Subject areas like math, science, and special education often have more openings, particularly in rural and underserved districts. New teachers with flexible certification areas may find more job opportunities and signing incentives.

Financial Aid for High School Teacher Programs

Students pursuing teaching degrees in Tennessee may qualify for several financial aid options. These include:

• the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship, which provides aid to eligible high school graduates attending in-state public colleges.
• the Tennessee Promise program, which offers two years of tuition-free community or technical college. Students can use this to begin coursework before transferring into a four-year education program.
• the TEACH Grant, a federal program for students who plan to teach in high-need fields or low-income schools.

You should also complete the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

FAQs About Becoming a High School Teacher in Tennessee

If you're thinking about becoming a high school teacher in Tennessee, the questions below can help you understand the process and your options.

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

It typically takes four to five years to become a high school teacher in Tennessee. This includes earning a bachelor's degree, completing an educator preparation program, and passing licensure exams. Some students complete this process through a combined undergraduate program.

Can You Become a Teacher in Tennessee Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes, but you must still meet the state's preparation and licensure requirements. If your degree is in a non-teaching field, you can complete an alternative educator preparation program to become eligible for a Practitioner License.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

No, Tennessee requires a bachelor's degree and completion of an educator preparation program to become licensed. However, you can begin your studies at a community college and transfer into a four-year education program later.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest path is enrolling in a bachelor's degree program that includes an integrated licensure track. These programs allow you to complete your degree and educator preparation at the same time, typically in four years.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Tennessee for Free?

You may qualify for free or reduced tuition through the Tennessee Promise or Tennessee HOPE programs. If you teach in a high-need field or a low-income school after graduation, you may also receive TEACH Grant funding that does not need to be repaid.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Tennessee

Tennessee offers a variety of accredited education programs designed to help you meet state licensure requirements and launch a rewarding career in high school education. Explore teaching degrees featured on Learn.org to find the right path for your goals.