How To Become a Middle School Teacher in California 2025

If you're thinking about teaching grades six through eight, California offers a clear path to help you reach the classroom. From completing your bachelor's degree to earning your Single Subject Teaching Credential, each step is designed to prepare you for success.

This article breaks down the process, whether you're just starting college or switching careers. You'll also find information on subject-specific requirements, job outlook, and financial aid. To learn more about how to become a middle school teacher, keep reading below.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers help students in grades six through eight build the academic and social skills needed for high school. These teachers specialize in specific subjects such as math, science, language arts, or social studies. They plan lessons, manage classrooms, assess student progress, and communicate regularly with parents and school staff.

To qualify for this role, you must meet middle school teacher educational requirements set by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), which include earning a degree, completing teacher preparation, and passing required exams.

Typical responsibilities of a middle school teacher include:

• creating age-appropriate lesson plans that meet California content standards
• teaching one or more core subjects in a classroom setting
• assessing student performance and adjusting instruction accordingly
• managing classroom behavior and promoting a positive learning environment
• collaborating with other educators and staff to support student success
• communicating with parents and guardians about student progress
• participating in school-wide meetings, training, and development activities

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in California

If you're interested in teaching students in grades six through eight, you'll need to meet specific state requirements. Whether you're starting fresh or switching careers, the requirements to become a middle school teacher involve a combination of education, exams, and state certification.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

To become a middle school teacher in California, you must first earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. The degree does not have to be in education, but it should align with the subject you plan to teach. For example, if you want to teach math, majoring in mathematics or a related field is recommended.

During your undergraduate program, consider completing general education coursework and electives that will later meet prerequisites for a teacher preparation program. If your school offers an integrated or blended credential program, you may be able to combine your degree and credential requirements into a single pathway.

Step 2: Complete a Commission-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

Next, you'll need to complete a teacher preparation program approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). These programs are typically offered by California colleges and universities and include both coursework and clinical practice. They are designed to teach you classroom management, instructional strategies, and subject-specific teaching methods.

The clinical practice component includes student teaching under the guidance of an experienced educator. This real-world experience is a key part of your training and prepares you to manage a classroom independently. Programs may be completed as part of your bachelor's degree or after graduation through a post-baccalaureate or internship route.

Step 3: Pass the Required Exams

Before applying for your credential, you must pass specific exams required by the state. These often include the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or meeting the Basic Skills Requirement through coursework, SAT/ACT scores, or other options. You'll also need to demonstrate subject-matter competence, usually by passing the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) in your content area.

If you're entering through an approved subject-matter program (offered at some universities), you may not need to take the CSET. However, exam requirements can vary based on your academic background, so it's important to consult your teacher preparation program for guidance.

Step 4: Apply for a Preliminary Credential

Once you've completed your teacher preparation and passed the necessary exams, you can apply for a Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential. This credential authorizes you to teach one specific subject, such as science or English, in departmentalized middle or high school classrooms in California.

To apply, you must submit your application to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing along with verification of your completed preparation program, test scores, and fingerprint clearance. This credential is valid for five years and is the first stage of licensure in the state.

Step 5: Complete Induction and Earn a Clear Credential

During your first few years of teaching, you must participate in a California-approved teacher induction program. This is a state requirement designed to support new teachers through mentoring, professional development, and ongoing classroom reflection.

Once you successfully complete the induction program, you can apply for a Clear Credential, which replaces your preliminary credential and allows you to continue teaching in California without a time limit. Maintaining this credential requires ongoing professional growth, but not formal renewal coursework.

Step 6: Continue Professional Learning and Explore Advanced Credentials

After earning your Clear Credential, you can pursue additional certifications or advanced degrees if you wish to grow in your career. Options include earning a master's in education, becoming a department chair, or pursuing administrative credentials to move into leadership roles.

California also offers added authorizations and supplementary credentials that let you expand the subjects or grade levels you're eligible to teach. Continuing your professional development ensures that you stay current with teaching standards and meet student needs effectively.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

California middle school teachers typically hold a Single Subject Teaching Credential in the subject they teach. This credential allows them to teach departmentalized classes in grades six through twelve. While the overall steps to become a middle school teacher remain the same, subject-specific requirements, especially related to subject-matter competence, can vary depending on your teaching area.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To become a middle school math teacher in California, you'll need a bachelor's degree in mathematics or a related field like statistics or engineering. After earning your degree, you must complete a Commission-approved Single Subject teacher preparation program in mathematics. This program includes coursework in pedagogy and classroom management, as well as supervised student teaching.

You also need to demonstrate subject-matter competence in math. This can be done by passing the CSET Mathematics exam or by completing a state-approved subject-matter program in math during your undergraduate studies. Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for a Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential in mathematics.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

If you want to teach science at the middle school level, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Then, you must complete a teacher preparation program focused on Single Subject Science instruction. These programs cover methods for teaching science in hands-on and inquiry-based ways that align with California science standards.

You must also pass the CSET Science exam in your chosen concentration (e.g., Life Sciences, Chemistry, or Physical Science) unless you've completed an approved subject-matter program. With your credential, you'll be qualified to teach science in a departmentalized classroom setting.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

Middle school history teachers in California typically earn a bachelor's degree in history, social science, political science, or a related discipline. Following your undergraduate studies, you must enroll in a teacher preparation program that leads to a Single Subject credential in Social Science.

To demonstrate subject-matter knowledge, you'll need to pass the CSET Social Science exam or complete an approved subject-matter program in social science. Your credential will authorize you to teach history and related subjects in middle and high school classrooms.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

To become a middle school English teacher, you'll start by earning a bachelor's degree in English, literature, or a closely related field. Next, you'll need to complete a teacher preparation program that offers a Single Subject Teaching Credential in English Language Arts. This includes academic coursework and classroom-based training in reading instruction, writing strategies, and curriculum design.

You must also demonstrate subject-matter competency by passing the CSET English exam or completing a state-approved English subject-matter program. Once credentialed, you'll be qualified to teach English language arts in grades six through twelve.

Education Degree Programs in California

California offers a variety of accredited teaching credential programs to help you become a middle school teacher. The schools below provide Single Subject Credential pathways with hands-on training and subject-specific coursework.

1. California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) offers a Single Subject Credential Program that prepares students to teach middle and high school in specific content areas such as English, mathematics, science, and social science. The program includes coursework in classroom management, instructional methods, and student diversity, along with 600 hours of clinical practice in local schools.

Students can apply to the credential program after earning a bachelor's degree or through an integrated pathway while completing their undergraduate studies. CSULB's teacher education programs are designed to support future educators with hands-on experience and mentorship in real classroom settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $6,084 (in-state); $8,729 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

2. San Diego State University

San Diego State University (SDSU) has a Single Subject Credential Program for students preparing to teach specific subjects in middle and high schools. Candidates can pursue credentials in areas such as English, mathematics, science, and social science, qualifying them to teach departmentalized classes in grades six through twelve. The program includes coursework on teaching methods, equity in education, and student development.

SDSU's program features two pathways: a traditional post-baccalaureate route and an integrated program that combines undergraduate study with credential preparation. Both options include extensive field experiences in local schools to ensure practical, hands-on training.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,180 (in-state); $15,840 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: WSCUC

3. California State University, Fullerton

Future middle school teachers can earn a Single Subject Credential at California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) through a program focused on preparing educators for departmentalized classrooms in grades six through twelve. Students choose from subject areas like English, mathematics, science, or social science while completing coursework in instructional strategies and classroom environments. Field experiences in local schools are integrated throughout the program to provide practical, hands-on teaching experience.

CSUF provides both traditional post-baccalaureate and integrated undergraduate pathways. The curriculum includes a focus on inclusive teaching, adolescent learning, and content-specific pedagogy. Candidates also complete supervised student teaching to build real-world skills before entering the classroom.

• Estimated tuition cost: $6,450 (in-state); $12,330 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: WSCUC

4. San Francisco State University

Those preparing to teach specific subjects in middle or high school can pursue a Single Subject Credential through San Francisco State University (SFSU). Available content areas include English, mathematics, science, social science, and others. Coursework focuses on teaching diverse learners and is paired with hands-on training in curriculum planning, assessment, and classroom management.

The program features two supervised student teaching placements and extensive fieldwork in local public schools. Candidates may enter as post-baccalaureate students or follow an integrated pathway. With an emphasis on equity and reflection, SFSU prepares educators to meet California's credentialing standards.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,256 (in-state); $14,472 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: WSCUC

5. California State University, Sacramento

California State University, Sacramento (Sac State) offers a Single Subject Teaching Credential Program that prepares future educators to teach departmentalized subjects in grades six through twelve. Credential areas include English, mathematics, science, and social science. The program focuses on subject-specific pedagogy, adolescent development, and strategies for teaching English learners.

Sac State provides multiple pathways, including post-baccalaureate and integrated options for undergraduates. The program includes two semesters of supervised student teaching, allowing candidates to gain hands-on experience in diverse public school settings while working closely with mentor teachers and university supervisors.

• Estimated tuition cost: $6,450 (in-state); $11,778 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: WSCUC

Middle School Teacher Salary in California?

The average middle school teacher salary in California is $95,860 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is significantly higher than the national average of $62,970. Salaries can vary by district, education level, and experience.

Teachers in urban districts like Los Angeles or San Francisco often earn more due to higher costs of living and district-specific pay scales. Entry-level educators may start in the $60,000 to $70,000 range, while experienced teachers with advanced degrees or additional responsibilities can earn well over $100,000.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in California

Employment of middle school teachers is projected to decline 1% from 2023 to 2033, according to the BLS. However, there will still be an estimated 41,400 job openings per year nationwide due to teachers retiring or leaving the profession. In California, ongoing demand for credentialed educators, especially in core subjects and underserved areas, means opportunities will continue to exist despite the overall employment dip.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

If you're preparing to become a middle school teacher in California, several financial aid opportunities can help you cover the cost of your degree:

• Federal Student Aid: Students can apply for federal grants, work-study, and loans by completing the FAFSA. Many online colleges that accept financial aid participate in federal aid programs.
• Cal Grant Program: California residents pursuing teaching degrees at eligible institutions may qualify for Cal Grant A or B, which help cover tuition and other expenses.
• Golden State Teacher Grant: This program offers up to $20,000 in funding for students who commit to teaching at a priority school in California for four years.
• California Chafee Grant: If you are or were in foster care, the Chafee Grant provides additional aid to help you earn your teaching credential.
• Institutional scholarships: Many public universities in California, such as CSU and UC campuses, offer merit- and need-based scholarships specifically for education majors.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in California

If you're thinking about becoming a middle school teacher in California, you likely have questions about the timeline, credentials, and educational path. Below are some of the most common questions future educators ask as they prepare to enter the classroom.

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

It typically takes five to six years to become a middle school teacher in California. You'll need four years to earn a bachelor's degree, followed by one to two years to complete a teacher preparation program and fulfill state licensure requirements. Some integrated programs allow you to earn your degree and credential simultaneously, which may shorten the timeline.

Do I Need a Master's Degree To Teach Middle School in California?

No, California does not require a master's degree to become a middle school teacher. You must earn a bachelor's degree and a Single Subject Teaching Credential, but a graduate degree is optional. However, some teachers choose to pursue a master's later to qualify for higher pay or administrative roles.

Can I Teach Middle School With a Multiple Subject Credential?

In most cases, middle school teachers in departmentalized classrooms must hold a Single Subject Credential in the subject they teach. A Multiple Subject Credential is typically for elementary grades, but may be used in some self-contained sixth-grade classrooms. Check with your district to see if exceptions apply.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Middle School Teacher?

The fastest path is to enroll in a blended or integrated bachelor's and credential program, which lets you complete both at once in about four to five years. Alternatively, career changers with a degree can enter an intern program that allows them to teach while completing credential coursework.

Do I Need to Take the CSET Exam?

Most future teachers must take the CSET to prove subject-matter competency. However, if you complete a CTC-approved subject-matter preparation program in your teaching area, you may be exempt. Always check with your credential program to determine your specific exam requirements.

Explore Teaching Degrees in California

Certified teaching programs across California can help you prepare for a middle school classroom. Browse accredited degree options available on Learn.org.