How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Florida 2025

If you're looking into how to become a middle school teacher, Florida offers several pathways for both education majors and career changers. Whether you're earning your first degree or transitioning from another field, you'll need to meet the state's certification requirements through approved coursework, testing, and licensure. This guide breaks down the responsibilities of middle school teachers, explains the step-by-step process to get certified, and outlines what you can expect in terms of job prospects, salaries, and degree programs across the state.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

A middle school teacher plays a vital role in guiding students through one of the most important developmental stages�grades six through eight. Teachers in this age group help students build on foundational knowledge while introducing more advanced concepts in subjects like English, math, science, and social studies. Alongside academic instruction, middle school teachers support students' social and emotional growth, preparing them for the transition to high school.

To meet middle school teacher educational requirements, candidates must be trained in both subject content and age-appropriate teaching strategies. Teachers must be flexible, patient, and ready to address the diverse needs of adolescent learners.

• create lesson plans that align with Florida's academic standards
• instruct students in core subjects using a variety of teaching methods
• manage classroom behavior and encourage student participation
• assess student progress through quizzes, exams, and projects
• communicate regularly with parents and guardians
• collaborate with colleagues on school-wide initiatives
• maintain certification through ongoing professional development

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Florida

To meet the requirements to become a middle school teacher, you must earn a bachelor's degree, complete a teacher preparation program, pass required exams, and apply for certification through the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE). Florida also offers alternative pathways for individuals who already hold a degree in another field. Below are the steps to become certified to teach middle grades in Florida.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Your first step is to complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Ideally, your degree should focus on education with a specialization in a middle grades subject, such as English, math, or science. These programs typically include coursework on child development, teaching strategies, and subject-specific instruction.

If you already hold a non-education degree, you may still qualify by completing additional education courses or enrolling in an alternative certification program. Either way, a bachelor's degree is the baseline requirement for all aspiring middle school teachers in Florida.

Step 2: Complete a Teacher Preparation Program

Florida requires completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program. These programs include both classroom-based coursework and hands-on experience in real school settings. You'll learn how to manage a classroom, differentiate instruction, and support diverse learners.

For those with a non-education degree, you can meet this requirement through a district-based certification program or Educator Preparation Institute (EPI). These alternative options are designed specifically for career changers and often offer flexible schedules and support services.

Step 3: Pass the Florida Teacher Certification Exams

To become certified, you must pass a series of exams through the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE). These typically include the General Knowledge Test, the Professional Education Test, and the Subject Area Examination for the grade and subject you intend to teach.

The FTCE ensures that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach middle school students. Preparation resources and practice tests are available through the FLDOE website to help you study for each exam.

Step 4: Apply for Florida Educator Certification

Once you've met the educational and exam requirements, you can apply for certification through the Florida Department of Education. You'll need to submit your transcripts, test scores, and a completed application along with the required fee.

After review, the FLDOE will issue either a Temporary Certificate (valid for three years) or a Professional Certificate (valid for five years). Most new teachers start with a Temporary Certificate while completing additional requirements for the Professional Certificate.

Step 5: Complete Any Additional Requirements

If you start teaching with a Temporary Certificate, you must complete additional coursework and training to move to a Professional Certificate. This may include completing a Florida-approved EPI, passing additional exams, or taking required college courses.

School districts often provide mentorship and support for teachers on temporary certificates, helping them meet these final requirements while working in the classroom.

Step 6: Maintain Certification Through Renewal

Florida requires Professional Certificate holders to renew their certification every five years. Renewal typically involves completing 120 in-service points (or equivalent college credit) in relevant subject areas or professional development.

Staying current with your certification ensures that you remain eligible to teach and can continue growing professionally throughout your career.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

Florida's certification process includes subject-specific pathways to teach in middle grades (typically grades five to nine). To qualify, you must meet both general teaching requirements and pass the appropriate subject area exams. Below are the steps for each core subject area.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To teach math in Florida middle schools, you must earn a bachelor's degree that includes at least 18 credit hours in mathematics or closely related coursework. This can be completed through an education program or by combining a math-focused degree with an alternative certification pathway.

In addition to your degree, you must pass the Florida Subject Area Examination for Middle Grades Mathematics. This exam covers algebra, geometry, data analysis, and instructional strategies. Once you've completed a teacher preparation program and passed the FTCE exams, you'll be eligible to apply for certification.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

Middle school science teachers need a bachelor's degree with 18 or more credit hours in science subjects such as biology, chemistry, earth science, or physics. These can be completed through a science education program or through a traditional science major with added pedagogy coursework.

You must pass the Middle Grades General Science Subject Area Exam through the FTCE. This test evaluates your understanding of physical and life sciences, scientific investigation, and instructional practices. Combined with teacher preparation and general certification requirements, this qualifies you to teach science in grades five to nine.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

To teach social sciences, including history, at the middle school level, you'll need a bachelor's degree with coursework in American history, world history, civics, economics, and geography�at least 18 semester hours total in these areas.

Florida requires you to pass the FTCE Middle Grades Social Science Subject Area Exam, which assesses your knowledge of historical concepts, government systems, and instructional methods. After meeting teacher training and certification requirements, you can apply to teach social studies in Florida middle schools.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

Prospective middle school English teachers must earn a bachelor's degree with at least 18 credit hours in English-related coursework such as literature, composition, linguistics, and grammar. Many complete a degree in English education or pursue alternative certification with an English focus.

To qualify for certification, you must pass the FTCE Middle Grades English Subject Area Exam. The test covers reading comprehension, writing instruction, grammar usage, and literary analysis. Alongside teacher preparation and licensure steps, this exam qualifies you to teach English language arts in middle grades.

Education Degree Programs in Florida

Florida offers a variety of accredited education programs designed to prepare future middle school teachers for classroom success. The colleges below provide state-approved pathways that include subject-area coursework, hands-on teaching experience, and certification support. Whether you're pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree, these programs can help you meet Florida's licensure requirements.

1. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in middle school science education, designed for individuals who hold a non-education bachelor's degree and want to become certified teachers. The program includes coursework in instructional methods, adolescent development, and classroom management, as well as clinical experiences in local schools.

UCF also provides secondary education tracks in subjects such as English language arts, math, and social science through its College of Community Innovation and Education. These programs include access to academic advising, certification guidance, and field placements to help students transition confidently into middle school teaching roles.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,954 (in-state); $20,980 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. University of South Florida

The University of South Florida (USF) offers a Bachelor of Science in middle grades mathematics education, which prepares students to teach math in grades five through nine. The program includes coursework in instructional strategies, adolescent development, and culturally responsive teaching, along with extensive field experiences in partner schools throughout the Tampa Bay region.

For those who already hold a non-education bachelor's degree, USF also offers an MAT in mathematics education. This graduate program is designed to lead to initial teacher certification and includes clinical placements and support for passing Florida certification exams.

• Estimated tuition cost: $3,152.10 (in-state); $6,335.70 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Florida International University

Students interested in becoming middle school teachers can pursue secondary education pathways through Florida International University (FIU). FIU offers bachelor's degrees with teaching tracks in key subject areas such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies, allowing students to focus on content mastery while preparing for classroom instruction.

Each program includes field experiences, classroom management training, and guidance on meeting Florida teacher certification requirements. With options for both traditional and transfer students, FIU's secondary education programs provide the academic foundation and practical tools needed to teach middle grades effectively.

• Estimated tuition cost: $6,167.10 (in-state); $18,566.10 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. University of North Florida

Future middle school educators can explore the Bachelor of Arts in education with a concentration in middle grades at the University of North Florida (UNF). This program includes specialized coursework in adolescent development, instructional methods, and core subject content for grades five through nin. Students also complete practicum experiences and a final student teaching internship.

UNF also offers an MAT for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-education field. The MAT combines graduate-level coursework with clinical fieldwork to prepare candidates for Florida teacher certification in middle or secondary grades.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,260.50 (in-state); $19,664.40 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. University of West Florida

The University of West Florida (UWF) offers undergraduate secondary education programs that prepare students to teach core academic subjects in grades five through nine. Students can choose content areas such as English, math, science, or social studies and take part in coursework that includes instructional methods, classroom assessment, and adolescent development.

Field experiences and a full-term internship are included to help students apply theory in real classroom settings. UWF's programs are designed to meet Florida certification requirements and support students in passing the FTCE.

• Estimated tuition cost: $6,360 (in-state); $19,260 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

Middle School Teacher Salary in Florida?

Middle school teachers in Florida earn an average salary of $58,220 per year, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure reflects full-time educators across public and private schools statewide.

Actual earnings depend on several factors. New teachers often earn around $40,000 annually, while those with years of experience or advanced degrees may see salaries rise above $65,000. Pay tends to be higher in urban districts like Miami-Dade and Hillsborough, where funding levels and living costs are greater. Additional duties, such as mentoring or curriculum planning, can also boost pay.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Florida

Although employment of middle school teachers is projected to decline by 1% from 2023 to 2033, the profession will still see steady hiring needs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 41,400 middle school teaching positions are expected to open each year nationwide during this period.

Most of these openings will be due to retirements or teachers changing careers, rather than new job growth. In Florida, ongoing population shifts and teacher turnover are likely to keep demand stable, especially in subjects like math, science, and special education where qualified teachers remain in short supply.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Students pursuing a teaching degree in Florida may qualify for multiple forms of financial aid. If you're attending an accredited institution, you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA offer education degrees that meet Florida's teacher preparation requirements.

Florida also offers state-based assistance like the Florida Future Educator Scholarship and tuition waivers for critical teacher shortage areas. Some universities, such as Florida State University and University of Central Florida, maintain education-specific scholarships for future teachers. These programs can significantly reduce the cost of earning your teaching credential.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Florida

If you're thinking about becoming a middle school teacher in Florida, you likely have questions about the timeline, certification paths, and ways to reduce costs. The answers below can help you better understand your options and what to expect as you work toward becoming a licensed teacher.

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

For most people, becoming a certified middle school teacher in Florida takes about four years. This includes earning a bachelor's degree, completing a teacher preparation program, and passing the required certification exams.

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

Yes, Florida offers alternative certification pathways for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-education field. These options include completing a district certification program or enrolling in an Educator Preparation Institute (EPI).

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The quickest route is typically through a Florida-approved EPI program, designed for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree. These programs can be completed in less than a year and allow you to begin teaching on a Temporary Certificate.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Florida for Free?

Some Florida residents may qualify for free or reduced-cost teacher training through scholarships, tuition waivers, or state-sponsored programs. Completing the FAFSA and applying for state aid like the Florida Fund for Minority Teachers can help cover tuition costs.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

An associate degree alone does not qualify you for full teacher certification in Florida. However, it can serve as a stepping stone toward a bachelor's degree, especially if you transfer to a four-year institution with an education program.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Florida

Florida offers a range of teaching degree programs that can help you meet state certification requirements. Browse accredited colleges on Learn.org to find the right fit for your career goals.