How To Become a High School Teacher in Wisconsin 2025

Becoming a high school teacher in Wisconsin starts with meeting the state's specific educational and licensure standards. You'll need to complete a teacher preparation program, pass exams, and earn certification to begin teaching grades nine through 12.

If you're planning your career path, this article explains the high school teacher educational requirements and highlights different certification routes. We'll explain each step you'll need to know in how to become a high school teacher, as well as the typical high school teacher responsibilities to help you get started.

What Does a High School Teacher Do?

High school teachers in Wisconsin play a critical role in preparing students for graduation, college, or career paths. These educators teach academic subjects such as math, English, science, and history to students in grades nine through 12. In addition to instruction, they monitor student progress, manage classroom behavior, and work closely with families and school staff to support learning. Teachers also often serve as advisors, mentors, or club sponsors.

High school teacher responsibilities include the following:

• prepare lessons
• deliver instruction to students in grades nine through 12
• assess student work and provide feedback
• track academic progress and maintain grade records
• manage classroom behavior and maintain a safe environment
• communicate with parents or guardians about student performance
• attend professional development and faculty meetings
• collaborate with colleagues on curriculum and instruction

How To Become a High School Teacher in Wisconsin

To meet Wisconsin's high school teacher educational requirements, you need to complete state-approved training and licensure steps. There are multiple paths to certification, including both traditional and alternative routes for first-time educators. Let's dive into how you can get started.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

First, decide which subject to teach in high school, which will determine your bachelor's degree. Your degree should align with the subject area you wish to teach, such as a Bachelor of Science (BS) in chemistry or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English.

If you already hold a bachelor's degree in a different field, you can still pursue licensure through post-baccalaureate or alternative certification programs. Some of these options are offered through Wisconsin schools or through national programs like the American Board.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Educator Preparation Program

To qualify for licensure, you must complete a DPI-approved educator preparation program. This training includes coursework in classroom management, educational psychology, and instructional strategies specific to your subject area.

You'll also complete a student teaching internship where you work in a real high school classroom under the supervision of a licensed teacher. This hands-on experience is essential for building teaching skills and demonstrating your readiness for the profession.

Step 3: Pass Required Exams

All prospective teachers must pass state-approved assessments. These typically include content area tests and a pedagogy exam that evaluates your instructional knowledge. The Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test may also be required, depending on your subject area.

In addition, candidates may need to complete a performance-based assessment to show their ability to plan, instruct, and assess student learning effectively. Check with the DPI for the exact exams required for your subject and grade level.

Step 4: Apply for Licensure Through the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

Once you've completed your degree, training, and exams, you'll submit a license application through the DPI's online Educator Licensing Online (ELO) system. You'll need to upload transcripts, test scores, and program verification forms.

Wisconsin's initial teaching license is valid for five years and can be renewed or upgraded to a lifetime license after meeting continuing education requirements and successful teaching experience.

Step 5: Consider Alternative Routes

Wisconsin also offers alternative certification options for career changers. For example, the American Board's Wisconsin pathway allows individuals with a bachelor's degree to complete an online teacher preparation program and receive a three-year license with mentorship support.

This route can be an efficient option if you already have content knowledge and want to transition into teaching without enrolling in a full degree program.

Education Degree Programs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers a range of accredited degree programs for future secondary educators. Each college listed below offers a path to becoming a licensed high school teacher in Wisconsin.

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee (UWM)

At the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee (UWM), students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in education with a focus on secondary education. The program prepares future teachers to instruct grades six through 12 in content areas such as English, science, mathematics, and social studies. Coursework covers adolescent development, inclusive practices, and subject-specific teaching strategies. Students also participate in supervised fieldwork in Milwaukee-area schools.

UWM supports licensure readiness by helping students meet Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requirements. Through partnerships with local school districts, students gain the classroom experience they need to confidently enter the workforce. Advising and professional development resources are available throughout the program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,398 (in-state); $14,584 (Minnesota); $14,784 (Midwest); $22,398 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh (UWO)

The University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh (UWO) prepares students to teach grades six through 12 through its BS in education program. Students select a content area such as biology, English, mathematics, or social studies and complete subject-specific coursework alongside teacher preparation classes. The curriculum includes topics like educational psychology, instructional methods, and classroom assessment.

Students at UWO complete clinical field experiences and a semester of full-time student teaching in Wisconsin public schools. The program aligns with state licensure requirements and includes support for students pursuing the Foundations of Reading Test and edTPA. Academic advisors and faculty mentors help students stay on track for certification.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,530 (in-state); $10,152 (Minnesota); $12,062 (Midwest); $16,440 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

University of Wisconsin - La Crosse (UWL)

At the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse (UWL), students interested in teaching grades four through 12 can pursue a BS in education with a focus on secondary education. The program is built around a subject-area major (such as English, history, biology, or chemistry) paired with pedagogy courses that introduce instructional strategies, classroom management, and student development.

UWL integrates hands-on learning through early field experiences and a full semester of student teaching in a partner school. Faculty work closely with students to ensure they meet licensure standards and develop the skills to lead inclusive and effective classrooms.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,657 (in-state); $10,657 (Minnesota); $15,031 (Midwest); $20,474 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

University of Wisconsin - Whitewater (UWW)

The University of Wisconsin - Whitewater (UWW) prepares future educators to teach grades six through 12 through its BS in education. Students choose a subject area and follow a structured sequence of courses that combine content mastery with teaching methodology. Coursework also includes training in assessment, instructional technology, and strategies for working with diverse learners.

Throughout the program, UWW students complete supervised field experiences and a semester of student teaching, helping them build confidence and real-world classroom experience. The School of Education offers advising support and licensure guidance for all teacher candidates.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,616 (in-state); $10,031 (Minnesota); $18,716 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

University of Wisconsin - Platteville (UW - Platteville)

At the University of Wisconsin - Platteville (UW - Platteville), students preparing to become middle and high school teachers can pursue a BS in education with a focus on secondary education. The program offers subject area specializations like biology, chemistry, English, and social studies. Through a mix of classroom theory and hands-on learning, students learn how to design engaging lessons, manage classrooms, and use assessment tools effectively.

UW - Platteville's program includes early field experiences and a student teaching semester in local schools, providing practical training under the supervision of experienced educators. The School of Education also helps candidates prepare for state licensure by offering test preparation resources and academic advising.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,715 (in-state); $10,280 (Minnesota); $13,620 (IA, IL); $17,675 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

How Much Does a High School Teacher Make in Wisconsin?

The average high school teacher salary in Wisconsin is $63,920 per year, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, actual earnings can vary depending on school district, location, and individual qualifications. Teachers working in larger districts like Madison or Milwaukee often receive higher compensation due to cost-of-living adjustments and district-specific funding.

Salaries also increase with years of experience and educational credentials. Many districts in Wisconsin use a salary schedule that rewards teachers who earn graduate credits or a master's degree.

Some educators may also qualify for stipends by taking on additional responsibilities, such as coaching or mentoring new teachers. Public school teachers generally receive benefits packages that include health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid leave, adding long-term value to the overall compensation package.

Job Outlook for High School Teachers in Wisconsin

The job outlook for high school teachers in Wisconsin remains stable, with the BLS projecting a 1% growth in employment for secondary school teachers nationwide through 2032. This modest growth rate reflects the balance between steady student enrollment and retirements among current educators.

In Wisconsin, specific districts, particularly in rural areas and urban centers, report ongoing teacher shortages, especially in subjects such as science, math, special education, and bilingual education. These shortages can lead to increased job opportunities and hiring incentives for licensed teachers who are flexible in the subjects and grade levels they teach.

Additionally, Wisconsin's Department of Public Instruction has developed alternative pathways to licensure to help address these shortages, encouraging mid-career professionals and recent graduates from other fields to enter teaching. This evolving landscape supports a relatively consistent demand for qualified high school teachers across the state, especially in schools that face staffing challenges.

Financial Aid for High School Teacher Programs

Students pursuing a teaching degree in Wisconsin can explore a variety of financial aid options to help reduce the cost of tuition. These include state-sponsored grants, scholarships for future educators, and federal aid opportunities available through the FAFSA.

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) offers specific scholarships, such as the Minority Teacher Loan Program, which forgives part of the loan if recipients teach in eligible Wisconsin schools after graduation. Students who plan to teach in high-need subjects or underserved areas may also qualify for the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant, which provides up to $4,000 annually in exchange for teaching service commitments.

In addition, Wisconsin residents attending eligible institutions can apply for the Wisconsin Grant Program, which supports low- to moderate-income students. Many Wisconsin colleges and universities also offer institutional scholarships specifically for education majors. Be sure to check with your school's financial aid office for available opportunities.

FAQs About Becoming a High School Teacher in Wisconsin

Exploring a teaching career in Wisconsin comes with several questions, especially if you're new to the profession or considering a career switch. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about certification timelines, alternative routes, exams, and financial support.

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

If you're starting from scratch, it typically takes four years to earn a bachelor's degree in secondary education. After completing your coursework, you must also pass the required licensure exams and complete a semester of student teaching. Altogether, the process usually takes four to five years.

If you already hold a bachelor's degree, alternative certification programs can speed things up. These programs focus on pedagogy and licensure preparation and can often be completed within one to two years, depending on your schedule and whether you're working full-time.

Can You Teach in Wisconsin Without a Traditional Education Degree?

Yes, Wisconsin allows individuals without an education degree to become licensed teachers through nontraditional pathways. The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence offers a recognized route that lets degree-holders earn certification by passing subject-specific exams and completing teaching mentorship.

Other alternative routes include post-baccalaureate certification or Transition to Teaching programs offered by some universities. These pathways allow professionals with content expertise to shift into teaching roles without restarting their college education.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher in Wisconsin?

For those who already have a bachelor's degree, the fastest route is to enroll in an alternative licensure program. Many of these are self-paced or accelerated, allowing you to complete requirements in as little as one year. These programs often include online coursework and are ideal for career changers or working adults.

Additionally, teaching in high-need areas such as math, science, or special education may qualify you for emergency licensure, allowing you to begin teaching while completing certification requirements.

Do I Need to Pass Any Exams to Teach High School in Wisconsin?

To earn your license, you must pass a Praxis Subject Assessment for your content area, which verifies your knowledge of the subject you plan to teach. If your subject involves literacy or early reading development, you may also need to pass the Foundations of Reading Test.

Depending on the certification pathway, you might also be asked to complete a performance-based assessment like the edTPA. Your licensing route will determine exactly which tests are required.

Are There Scholarships for Aspiring Teachers in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin offers multiple funding options for education students. The Minority Teacher Loan provides forgivable loans to eligible minority students who plan to teach in Wisconsin schools after graduation. Another option is the Teacher of the Visually Impaired Loan, designed to support candidates entering high-need areas of education.

Students can also apply for the Wisconsin Grant Program, which supports undergraduate students with financial need. Additionally, federal TEACH Grants are available to those who commit to teaching in low-income or high-need fields.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Wisconsin

If you're ready to take the next step toward starting your teaching career, Learn.org is here to help. Explore the teaching degrees offered in Wisconsin and beyond to find the right fit for your education goals.