How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Alabama 2025

If you're interested in teaching grades six through eight, this guide breaks down the steps to become a middle school teacher in Alabama. From choosing a subject area to passing certification exams, you'll find everything you need to get started.

Whether you're earning a teaching degree or pursuing an alternative path, this overview explains the full process, including state licensure, job outlook, and financial aid options. You'll also learn how to meet key qualifications based on subject area and understand how to become a middle school teacher, through different certification routes.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers help students transition from elementary basics to high school-level thinking by teaching content in a way that supports both academic growth and social development. These teachers work with students typically in grades six through eight and may focus on one or two core subject areas such as math, science, language arts, or social studies.

In addition to planning lessons and grading assignments, middle school teachers play a key role in managing classroom behavior, supporting emotional development, and collaborating with parents and staff. Understanding middle school teacher educational requirements is essential, as these professionals must complete coursework and certification specific to adolescent education.

Below are some of the things middle school teachers do on a regular basis:

• plan and deliver instruction in one or more content areas
• develop age-appropriate assessments and analyze student performance
• create structured, engaging, and inclusive learning environments
• support student growth through differentiation and intervention
• communicate regularly with families and school staff
• participate in professional development and school improvement efforts
• prepare students for the academic and social expectations of high school

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Alabama

If you want to teach grades six through eight in Alabama, you'll need to complete several key steps, from earning the right degree to passing certification exams and applying for licensure. Alabama offers traditional and alternative pathways, each with its own set of requirements to become a middle school teacher. Below is an overview of the process for prospective middle school educators in Alabama.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Middle Level or Secondary Education

To begin your journey, you must earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Most future teachers in Alabama choose a Bachelor of Science in middle level education, which includes coursework in two content areas and methods for teaching young adolescents.

The program must be approved by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) to ensure it meets state standards. If your undergraduate degree is not in education, you can later pursue an alternative certification pathway that includes teacher preparation coursework and field experiences.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Educator Preparation Program

If you're on the traditional path, your bachelor's program likely includes an ALSDE-approved educator preparation component. This ensures you meet the pedagogical, developmental, and clinical experience requirements to work in Alabama schools.

If you already hold a degree but didn't complete a teaching program, you can enter a Class A Alternative Certification program. These graduate-level programs include coursework, internship placements, and mentorship, allowing you to qualify for certification while teaching under a provisional certificate.

Step 3: Pass Required Praxis Exams

To earn initial certification in Alabama, you must pass the required Praxis assessments. These include the Praxis Subject Assessments that correspond to your chosen content areas, as well as the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) for grades five to nine or seven to 12.

Your educator preparation program will help you determine which exams to take based on your teaching concentration. Passing scores are set by the Alabama State Department of Education and must be submitted as part of your certification application. Some candidates may also need to pass the edTPA, depending on program requirements.

Step 4: Apply for a Class B Professional Educator Certificate

Once you've completed your degree, preparation program, and exams, you'll apply for the Class B Professional Educator Certificate. This is the standard initial license for teachers in Alabama who have completed a traditional undergraduate program.

You'll submit your application through the Educator Certification Online Application (ECOA) system, along with official transcripts, test scores, and a background clearance. The certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed based on continued education and teaching experience.

Step 5: Complete Background Clearance and Fingerprinting

All aspiring teachers in Alabama must undergo a criminal history background check through the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation (ABI) and the FBI. This process includes fingerprinting and submission of required identification documents.

You'll complete this step early in your educator preparation program or before applying for certification. Clearance is required before participating in field placements or beginning full-time teaching. The results are sent directly to ALSDE and remain valid as long as your certification remains active.

Step 6: Maintain and Renew Certification

Your Class B certificate must be renewed every five years. To renew, you typically need to complete continuing education, such as professional development hours or graduate coursework, and document your teaching service during the certification period.

Teachers can also pursue higher-level credentials, such as the Class A (master's level) or Class AA (sixth-year) certificates. These advanced licenses can expand your career options and increase your salary potential while meeting ongoing licensure requirements.

Education Degree Programs in Alabama

Alabama colleges offer state-approved middle-level education programs that prepare students to earn licensure and teach grades six through eight. Most programs include two content-area concentrations, field experiences, and preparation for certification exams.

1. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a Bachelor of Science in education with a concentration in middle level education for grades four through eight. Students choose two teaching fields from English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies, allowing them to specialize in multiple core subjects. The curriculum includes coursework in content knowledge, adolescent development, classroom management, and instructional design.

Extensive field experiences are built into the program, including early clinical placements and a full-time internship during the senior year. Graduates meet all requirements for Class B certification in Alabama. Faculty advisors help students align coursework with state licensure standards and provide guidance throughout the certification process.

• Estimated tuition cost: $11,684 (in-state); $34,542 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. University of Alabama at Birmingham

Unlike general education degrees, the University of Alabama at Birmingham's secondary education program allows students to focus on content-specific teaching for grades six through twelve. Students pursuing middle-level teaching complete the Bachelor of Science in secondary education with concentrations available in English language arts, general science, mathematics, or social studies.

The program integrates content-area coursework with pedagogy, adolescent development, and technology in education. Field experiences begin early and increase in intensity, culminating in a semester-long teaching internship. Graduates are prepared for Class B certification and supported through personalized advising and professional development opportunities.

• Estimated tuition cost: $11,310 (in-state); $28,140 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Auburn University at Montgomery

Future educators at Auburn University at Montgomery can pursue a Bachelor of Science in secondary education, which includes preparation for teaching grades six through 12. Students select a content concentration in English language arts, general science, general social science, or mathematics, each of which includes coursework in subject-area knowledge, pedagogy, and instructional strategies.

The program features early and continuous field experiences in diverse school settings, culminating in a full semester of student teaching. Candidates also complete professional education courses that cover classroom management, educational psychology, and curriculum design.

• Estimated tuition cost: $11,276 (in-state); $23,522 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. University of North Alabama

The University of North Alabama offers a Bachelor of Science in education with a focus on general social science for teaching in grades six through 12. Students gain a strong foundation in history, geography, political science, and economics, along with training in effective instructional practices for adolescent learners.

The program includes structured field experiences beginning early in the curriculum, allowing students to apply their coursework in real classrooms. Additional coursework covers educational psychology, assessment strategies, and the integration of technology to support student learning.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,200 (in-state); $20,400 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Troy University

At Troy University, students can prepare to teach in grades six through 12 through specialized education programs in subjects like English language arts, mathematics, general science, biology, history, and social science. Each concentration includes an in-depth study of the chosen subject along with coursework in curriculum planning, instructional strategies, and student development.

Hands-on classroom experience is a key part of the program, with field placements beginning early and continuing through a full teaching internship. Students also explore topics such as educational technology, assessment practices, and classroom management to build the skills needed to support learners at the middle and high school levels.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,176 (in-state); $20,352 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

Middle School Requirements By Subject

Middle school teachers in Alabama must meet specific content and certification requirements based on the subject(s) they plan to teach. In addition to general teaching standards, each subject area has unique testing and academic expectations. Below are the steps to become certified in key middle school subjects.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To teach math at the middle school level in Alabama, you must complete a bachelor's degree in middle level education or mathematics education with a concentration in math. Your educator preparation program should include coursework in algebra, geometry, and instructional methods for grades six to eight.

You'll also need to pass the Praxis Mathematics Content Knowledge test that aligns with your grade level and teaching focus. Alabama accepts scores from the Praxis 5164 (Middle School Mathematics) exam. Your certification will reflect your content area and grade band, allowing you to teach math in middle school classrooms statewide.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

Aspiring middle school science teachers should complete a degree in middle level education or general science education with a science concentration. Coursework should include biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science, along with labs and methods courses focused on teaching young adolescents.

You must pass the Praxis 5442 (Middle School Science) exam to meet subject-area testing requirements. Some programs may require additional coursework for certification in multiple science fields. Upon completion of the degree, exams, and student teaching, you'll qualify for licensure to teach science in grades six through eight.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

If you're interested in teaching history or social studies, you'll need to complete a degree in middle-level or secondary social science education with a concentration in history or a related field. Your program will include classes in U.S. and world history, geography, civics, and teaching strategies for social studies.

Alabama requires candidates to pass the Praxis 5089 (Middle School Social Studies) exam to demonstrate subject proficiency. Once certified, you'll be licensed to teach history and other social science courses in Alabama middle schools, typically as one of two content areas for middle-level educators.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

To become a middle school English language arts teacher in Alabama, you'll pursue a degree in middle level or secondary English education with a focus on reading, writing, grammar, and literature. Programs also include coursework on adolescent literacy and communication strategies.

You'll need to pass the Praxis 5047 (Middle School English Language Arts) exam, which assesses reading comprehension, writing instruction, and teaching methods. Once certified, you'll be licensed to teach English language arts in grades six through eight and may also qualify to lead integrated humanities courses, depending on your second content area.

Middle School Teacher Salary in Alabama

The average middle school teacher salary in Alabama is $57,7500 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries can vary based on your level of education, years of experience, and the school district where you work. New teachers often start at a lower salary tier, but earnings may increase with graduate coursework or certifications.

Teachers in urban or high-need areas may qualify for salary supplements or signing bonuses. Additionally, Alabama offers tiered pay increases for educators who pursue advanced degrees or National Board Certification.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Alabama

Employment of middle school teachers in the U.S. is projected to decline by 1% from until to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, Alabama and other states are still expected to have consistent demand due to teacher turnover and retirements.

An estimated 41,400 openings for middle school teachers are projected each year across the country. These openings will mostly come from the need to replace educators who leave the profession, switch careers, or exit the workforce. In Alabama, subject shortages in math, science, and special education may lead to additional hiring needs.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Students in Alabama pursuing a teaching degree have access to several financial aid opportunities. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step toward securing grants, scholarships, and student loans. Most Alabama colleges and universities participate in the federal aid system and offer institutional awards for education majors.

You can also explore the Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program (AMSTEP), which provides loan repayment for eligible graduates who teach math or science in high-need Alabama schools: https://www.ache.edu/index.php/teacher-initiatives/amstep/

Students enrolled in online colleges that accept financial aid may qualify for the same federal grants and loans as traditional students. In addition, many schools offer education-specific scholarships and tuition discounts for aspiring teachers.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Alabama

If you're thinking about becoming a middle school teacher in Alabama, you probably have questions about how long it takes, whether alternative pathways exist, and how to afford your degree. Below are answers to some of the most common questions future educators ask.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Middle School Teacher in Alabama?

It typically takes four years to become a certified middle school teacher in Alabama through a traditional bachelor's degree program. This includes coursework, field experiences, and student teaching, followed by testing and certification.

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

Yes, Alabama offers alternative certification pathways for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-education field. These programs allow candidates to complete teacher preparation requirements while working toward full certification.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest path is usually an alternative certification program, which may take as little as one to two years. These programs are designed for career changers and often include job placement while you complete licensure requirements.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Alabama for Free?

Some financial aid programs in Alabama cover the cost of tuition or offer loan forgiveness for teachers in high-need subjects. You can also apply for federal grants and scholarships to reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

An associate degree alone does not qualify you for certification, but it can serve as a starting point. You'll need to transfer into a bachelor's program and complete an approved educator preparation program to become licensed.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Alabama

Whether you're starting your education journey or changing careers, Alabama offers flexible pathways to help you meet certification requirements. Browse accredited teaching degree programs at colleges across the state on Learn.org.