How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Illinois 2025

If you're wondering how to become a middle school teacher, the Illinois State Board of Education outlines clear steps to help you get started. From earning your degree to applying for licensure, the process prepares you to work with students in grades five through eight. This article breaks down each step, subject-specific requirements, salary expectations, and financial aid options to support your journey into the classroom.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

A middle school teacher helps students in grades six through eight build the academic and social skills they'll need for high school and beyond. These educators plan lessons, assess student progress, and provide guidance during a time when students are developing independence and critical thinking skills.

Middle school teacher educational requirements typically include subject-area preparation, a teaching license, and practical classroom experience to address the unique developmental needs of adolescents. Typical middle school teacher expectations include:

• planning and delivering lessons in core subjects or electives
• managing classroom behavior and promoting a positive learning environment
• evaluating student progress through assessments and assignments
• collaborating with parents, staff, and school counselors
• supporting students' social and emotional development
• participating in professional development and teacher evaluations
• adapting instruction for students with diverse learning needs

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Illinois

If you're exploring the requirements to become a middle school teacher, Illinois has clear steps in place. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) outlines a multi-part process that includes completing an approved education program, passing required tests, and applying for a state license. Below are the main steps to get started.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Education

The first step is to complete a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Most middle school teachers in Illinois pursue a degree in education with a middle grades endorsement. Your degree program must include coursework in both general teaching methods and subject-specific content like mathematics, English, science, or social studies.

To meet Illinois licensure standards, your program must also include field experiences and a student teaching placement in grades five through eight. These components help you apply educational theory in real classrooms and develop essential instructional skills under the guidance of a licensed teacher.

Step 2: Complete an Approved Educator Preparation Program

In Illinois, you must complete a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP). These programs are designed to meet middle school teacher educational requirements by combining academic coursework with supervised teaching practice. Many universities offer programs that lead to both a degree and state licensure eligibility.

Your EPP will also ensure you meet coursework requirements in methods of teaching, reading instruction, and working with students from diverse backgrounds. Completing this program prepares you to succeed in the classroom and meet ISBE standards for content knowledge and pedagogy.

Step 3: Pass the Licensure Tests

Before you can be licensed, you must pass a series of tests approved by ISBE. These include the content-area test for your intended teaching subject and the edTPA (Teacher Performance Assessment). The content-area test evaluates your knowledge of the subject you plan to teach, such as language arts or science.

The edTPA measures your readiness to plan, instruct, and assess student learning. This performance-based exam involves submitting a portfolio that includes lesson plans, teaching videos, and reflections. Passing these exams demonstrates your ability to meet the needs of Illinois middle school learners.

Step 4: Apply for the Professional Educator License (PEL)

Once you've completed your degree, educator preparation program, and testing requirements, you can apply for a Professional Educator License (PEL) through the Illinois Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS). This license qualifies you to teach in public middle schools in Illinois.

To apply, you'll need to submit transcripts, proof of program completion, and test scores. ISBE will review your application to ensure all requirements are met. If approved, you'll be issued a PEL with a middle grades endorsement in your chosen subject area.

Step 5: Maintain and Renew Your License

Illinois teachers must renew their Professional Educator License every five years. During each renewal cycle, you must complete 120 hours of professional development approved by your school district or provider. These hours ensure you stay current in instructional practices and educational standards.

You'll renew your license through the ELIS portal and pay a renewal fee. If you fail to renew on time, your license may lapse, requiring additional steps to reinstate it. Staying on top of renewal requirements is essential for maintaining your certification and continuing your teaching career in Illinois.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

Middle school teachers in Illinois must meet subject-specific requirements in addition to general licensure standards. Each content area (math, science, history, and English language arts) requires a middle grades endorsement tied to your area of focus. This endorsement verifies that you've completed the required coursework and passed the relevant content test for that subject. Below are the steps to meet Illinois requirements in each core area.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To teach math in grades five through eight, you'll need to earn a middle grades mathematics endorsement. This process starts by completing a Professional Educator License (PEL) with a middle grade level designation and a focus in mathematics.

You must complete at least 18 semester hours of math-specific coursework, including algebra and geometry. In addition, you must pass the ILTS Middle Grades Mathematics content exam. Your educator preparation program should also include methods courses focused on teaching math to middle school students.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

To become a licensed middle school science teacher, you'll need a PEL with a middle grades science endorsement. This requires subject-area coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/space science.

You must complete 18 semester hours in science content, including at least one lab course. You'll also need to pass the ILTS Middle Grades Science exam. Your program should include teaching methods for middle grades science to ensure you're prepared to deliver hands-on, inquiry-based lessons.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

Middle school history teachers must earn a social science endorsement focused on history. This means holding a PEL with a middle grades social science-history endorsement.

To qualify, you must complete 18 semester hours in history, including U.S. and world history. The ILTS Middle Grades Social Science: History exam is also required. Your preparation should include coursework on teaching social studies content and helping students understand historical thinking and primary source analysis.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

For English language arts, you'll need a middle grades ELA endorsement on your Professional Educator License. This endorsement allows you to teach reading, writing, and literature in grades five through eight.

You'll need 18 semester hours of ELA coursework covering reading, composition, grammar, and adolescent literature. You must also pass the ILTS Middle Grades English Language Arts exam. Your educator preparation program should include instructional methods for ELA that address reading development and literacy across the content areas.

Education Degree Programs in Illinois

Several Illinois colleges offer state-approved teacher preparation programs that lead to middle grades licensure. The schools below provide specialized coursework, field experiences, and support to help you meet certification requirements.

1. Illinois State University

Illinois State University offers a Bachelor of Science in middle level teacher education designed to prepare future educators for teaching grades five through eight. Students select two content areas (language arts, mathematics, science, or social science) and complete coursework aligned with Illinois licensure standards.

The program includes extensive field experiences beginning in the sophomore year, followed by a full semester of student teaching. Graduates are eligible for middle grades endorsements in both subject areas, making them competitive candidates in a variety of school settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $11,524 (in-state); $23,048 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Southern Illinois University Carbondale has a Bachelor of Science in middle level education for students interested in teaching grades five through eight. The program includes concentrations in language arts, mathematics, science, and social science, allowing students to focus on the content areas most in demand.

Coursework emphasizes instructional planning, classroom management, and assessment strategies for adolescent learners. Students complete early field experiences and a semester-long student teaching placement to meet state licensure requirements and build practical teaching skills.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,638 (in-state); $9,638 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Northern Illinois University

The Bachelor of Science in middle level teaching and learning from Northern Illinois University prepares future educators to teach students in grades five through eight. Students choose a concentration in English language arts, mathematics, science, or social science and complete coursework that meets Illinois licensure requirements.

The program includes studies in adolescent development, instructional planning, and classroom assessment. Clinical experiences and student teaching placements give candidates hands-on practice in middle school settings to prepare for full-time teaching roles.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,792 (in-state); $13,972 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

4. University of Illinois Springfield

The Bachelor of Arts in middle grades education at the University of Illinois Springfield prepares students to teach grades five through eight in subject areas such as English language arts, mathematics, general science, or social science. The program includes coursework in adolescent development, instructional strategies, and classroom management tailored to middle school learners.

Students also participate in field experiences and complete a full semester of student teaching to meet Illinois licensure requirements. Graduates are eligible for a Professional Educator License with a middle grades endorsement in their chosen concentration.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,957 (in-state); $19,995 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Northeastern Illinois University

At Northeastern Illinois University, the Bachelor of Arts in middle level education focuses on preparing future teachers to work in diverse, urban school settings. Students choose a content area, such as English language arts, mathematics, science, or social science, and build skills through coursework and hands-on practice.

The program includes two structured clinical experiences that place students in real classrooms to apply what they've learned. Graduates complete the program ready to qualify for middle grades licensure and teach in public school environments across Illinois.

• Estimated tuition cost: $12,322.80 (in-state); $22,725.60 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Middle School Teacher Salary in Illinois?

The average middle school teacher salary in Illinois is $72,410 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is slightly higher than the national average of $66,880. Salaries vary by district and location, with teachers in the Chicago metro area typically earning more due to higher local funding and living costs.

Entry-level teachers may start in the $45,000 to $50,000 range, while experienced educators with advanced degrees or endorsements can earn above $80,000 annually. In addition to base pay, many districts offer benefits such as retirement contributions, health insurance, and stipends for extracurricular duties.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Illinois

Employment for middle school teachers is expected to decline by 1% nationally between 2023 and 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, job opportunities will still be available.

An estimated 41,400 openings are projected each year as current teachers retire or leave the profession. In Illinois, demand may remain steady in high-need subject areas such as math, science, and special education, particularly in rural and underserved districts. Candidates who hold multiple endorsements or are willing to work in shortage areas may have better employment prospects.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Many students in Illinois use financial aid to help pay for their teaching degree. Eligible students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans. Some cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA also offer flexible and affordable paths to teacher licensure.

In addition, Illinois residents can apply for state-based programs such as the Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship and the Illinois Special Education Teacher Tuition Waiver Program. These options support students who commit to teaching in underserved schools or high-demand areas. You can explore more opportunities through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Illinois

If you're considering a teaching career in Illinois, you may have questions about timelines, degree options, and alternative pathways. The answers below cover common concerns about becoming a licensed middle school teacher in the state.

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

Becoming a middle school teacher in Illinois typically takes four to five years. This includes earning a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, completing a state-approved educator preparation program, and passing the required licensure exams. Some students may need extra time if they pursue endorsements in multiple subject areas or take courses part time.

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

Yes, you can become a licensed teacher in Illinois without holding a traditional teaching degree. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, you may qualify for an alternative licensure program. These programs include intensive preparation and allow you to work as a teacher while completing additional coursework and meeting licensure requirements.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest way to become a teacher in Illinois is through an alternative licensure program approved by ISBE. These programs are designed for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree and want to begin teaching while completing required education coursework. They typically include mentorship, classroom experience, and accelerated timelines to full licensure.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Illinois for Free?

You may be able to complete a teaching degree in Illinois for free by applying for state-funded scholarships and tuition waivers. Programs like the Golden Apple Scholars Program and the Illinois Special Education Teacher Tuition Waiver cover tuition for students who commit to teaching in shortage areas or underserved schools. Federal aid may also help.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

An associate degree alone will not qualify you for a licensed teaching position in Illinois. However, it may allow you to work as a substitute teacher, teacher assistant, or paraprofessional while you continue your education. Many students use their associate degree as a stepping stone to complete a bachelor's degree in education.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Illinois

Find accredited teacher preparation programs across Illinois to start your career in education. Compare public and private colleges based on cost, location, and licensure outcomes here on Learn.org.