How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Michigan 2025

If you're researching how to become a middle school teacher, Michigan offers clear certification pathways through the Michigan Department of Education. Whether you're entering college or switching careers, you'll need to meet middle school teacher educational requirements, such as earning a bachelor's degree, passing licensing exams, and completing field experience. This article explains each step to certification, outlines subject-specific requirements, and covers important topics like job outlook, salaries, and financial aid opportunities.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers help students transition from elementary learning to more advanced topics in preparation for high school. They create structured lessons, assess student progress, and adapt instruction based on academic and developmental needs. Teachers at this level must meet specific middle school teacher educational requirements, including earning subject-area endorsements and completing a state-approved teacher preparation program.

• planning and delivering daily instruction in one or more subject areas
• supporting students' academic, emotional, and social development
• creating lesson plans aligned with Michigan's academic standards
• grading assignments and administering tests
• participating in professional development and school-wide initiatives
• managing classroom behavior and fostering a safe learning environment
• collaborating with parents, counselors, and fellow teachers

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Michigan

Before you can apply for licensure, you'll need to meet the requirements to become a middle school teacher, which vary slightly depending on whether you choose a traditional or alternative route. Either way, you must complete specific education, testing, and fieldwork steps as outlined by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). Below is a breakdown of each stage.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree with a Teacher Preparation Program

To become a licensed middle school teacher in Michigan, you'll need to complete a bachelor's degree that includes a state-approved teacher preparation program. These programs are typically offered by colleges and universities and combine subject-area coursework with pedagogy training and supervised field experience.

You must choose a major or minor in a teachable subject area, such as English, mathematics, science, or social studies. In most cases, candidates pursue a Bachelor of Science in education or a similar degree. Your degree must align with the grade bands for Michigan certification, which include grades five to nine for middle school teaching.

Step 2: Complete Required Testing

Michigan requires all aspiring teachers to pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC). For middle school candidates, this includes tests in your specific content areas. If you plan to teach more than one subject, you may need to pass multiple MTTC exams to earn endorsements.

In addition to content knowledge tests, you may need to complete a basic skills assessment, although some requirements have been waived depending on your GPA or coursework. Check with your preparation program or MDE for the most current testing requirements.

Step 3: Apply for a Standard Teaching Certificate

After completing your education and passing the MTTC exams, you can apply for Michigan's Standard Teaching Certificate. This license is valid for five years and qualifies you to teach in your subject areas and grade bands. The application is submitted through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS).

You'll also need to complete a criminal background check and submit official transcripts. If you're applying via an alternative certification route, you may need additional documentation to confirm program enrollment or completion, depending on the pathway you chose.

Step 4: Consider Alternative Certification Routes (If Applicable)

Michigan offers alternative pathways for career changers or individuals who already hold a degree. These programs allow you to teach under a temporary certification while completing training. Approved programs include university-based post-baccalaureate options and state partnerships like Michigan's Talent Together initiative.

Alternative routes still require you to meet the same standards as traditional candidates, including MTTC exams and supervised teaching. However, they may offer flexible formats, online coursework, or employer-sponsored opportunities that allow you to work while earning certification.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

Middle school teaching requirements can vary depending on the subject you want to teach. In Michigan, each subject area, such as math, science, history, and English language arts, has its own coursework and testing requirements for certification. You'll need to earn a bachelor's degree, complete a teacher preparation program, and pass the appropriate Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) exam for your chosen subject. The following sections outline the steps to become certified in each core subject for grades five through nine.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To become a middle school math teacher in Michigan, you'll need a bachelor's degree that includes a math concentration and a state-approved teacher preparation program. Your coursework should focus on algebra, geometry, number theory, and data analysis. You'll also need to pass the MTTC Middle Level Mathematics (089) exam to qualify for a five to nine math endorsement.

In the classroom, you'll be responsible for teaching problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and foundational skills to prepare students for high school math. Many math teachers pursue ongoing training in technology and instructional strategies to keep students engaged.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

Middle school science teachers must complete a bachelor's degree with coursework in life science, physical science, earth science, and scientific inquiry. A teacher preparation program must be included in your degree or completed separately. You'll also need to pass the MTTC Middle Level Science (094) exam for endorsement.

Teachers at this level introduce students to lab investigations, scientific methods, and environmental awareness. Because science is hands-on, you'll spend time preparing labs and helping students develop observation and analysis skills in topics such as biology, chemistry, and earth systems.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

If you're interested in teaching history, you'll need a bachelor's degree with a concentration in social studies or history, along with a state-approved teacher preparation program. You must pass the MTTC Middle Level Social Studies (093) exam to earn the required endorsement for teaching history in grades five to nine.

Middle school history teachers cover U.S. and world history, government, economics, and geography. Your role will include developing lessons that promote historical thinking, source analysis, and civic responsibility while meeting state content standards.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

To teach English language arts, you'll need a bachelor's degree with a focus on English, literature, composition, or a related area. A teacher preparation program is also required, along with a passing score on the MTTC Middle Level English Language Arts (092) exam for certification.

In this role, you'll teach students how to read and analyze texts, build vocabulary, write effectively, and speak with clarity. Middle school ELA teachers often support reading comprehension across subject areas and may incorporate multimedia and creative writing into the curriculum.

Education Degree Programs in Michigan

Michigan offers several accredited teaching degree programs designed to prepare future educators for licensure in grades six through eight. The colleges listed below provide specialized coursework, hands-on experience, and subject-area endorsements aligned with state certification standards.

1. Grand Valley State University

Students at Grand Valley State University can pursue a Bachelor of Science in secondary education with a pathway to teach middle school grades. The program includes coursework in adolescent development, instructional methods, and classroom management, along with a required student teaching experience.

Candidates select a teachable major and complete additional requirements through the College of Education to qualify for Michigan certification. This program meets the academic and clinical standards needed to become a licensed middle school teacher in the state.

• Estimated tuition cost: $15,406 (in-state); $21,788 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) offers a Bachelor of Science in secondary education designed for students planning to teach grades six through 12. The program includes core education courses, field experiences, and a semester-long student teaching placement in a public school.

Students choose a major and minor in approved content areas such as mathematics, integrated science, or social studies to meet state endorsement requirements. EMU's program aligns with Michigan's standards for teacher preparation, providing the skills and credentials needed to enter the classroom as a licensed educator.

• Estimated tuition cost: $16,478 (in-state); $16,478 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Central Michigan University

The Bachelor of Science in education at Central Michigan University (CMU) prepares students to teach in grades six through 12 by combining subject-area coursework with education-focused classes and field experiences. Students select a major in an approved subject like English, mathematics, or integrated science and complete supervised teaching assignments.

The curriculum emphasizes adolescent development, instructional planning, and inclusive teaching practices. CMU provides support throughout the certification process, helping students meet all requirements for initial licensure in Michigan.

• Estimated tuition cost: $15,420 (in-state); $15,420 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University offers a Master of Arts in secondary education for individuals seeking initial teacher certification. This program is intended for students who already hold a bachelor's degree and want to transition into teaching.

Candidates focus on pedagogy, content-area methods, and adolescent development, preparing to teach subjects like English, math, or science in grades six through 12. The curriculum includes coursework in instructional strategies and assessment, along with a final internship in a real classroom setting.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,902 (in-state); $9,862 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State University's Bachelor of Arts in teacher education includes a secondary education major that leads to certification in grades six through 12. Students choose from approved content areas like English language arts, mathematics, or social studies.

The program includes classroom observation, teaching methods courses, and a full-time student teaching placement. Faculty help guide students through Michigan's teacher preparation requirements and licensure process.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,680 (in-state); $24,000 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Middle School Teacher Salary in Michigan

Michigan educators who teach grades five through nine earn an average of $64,850 per year, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rates are influenced by factors like school district size, years of service, and subject specialty.

Urban districts and high-demand fields may offer higher compensation, especially for teachers with graduate degrees. This statewide average sits just above the national midpoint, making teaching in Michigan a stable career choice with room for salary growth.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Michigan

Employment of middle school teachers across the U.S. is projected to decline by 1% from 2023 to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, Michigan is still expected to have consistent openings due to teacher retirements and career changes.

On average, 41,400 new teaching positions open each year nationwide. Many of these vacancies occur as existing teachers leave the workforce or move into new fields. Despite the overall decline, Michigan's need to maintain certified educators in grades five through nine will continue to drive hiring at the local level.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Future educators in Michigan have access to a variety of financial aid options. State-level opportunities include the Michigan Future Educator Fellowship, which provides up to $10,000 per year for eligible students pursuing teacher certification. You may also qualify for federal aid by filling out the FAFSA form, which opens the door to grants, loans, and work-study programs.

If you're looking for affordable schools, cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA have low-cost degree programs with flexible options. Many universities in Michigan also offer their own scholarships and tuition assistance for education majors.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Michigan

If you're considering a teaching career in Michigan, you may have questions about certification timelines, degree requirements, and affordable pathways. The answers below offer practical guidance to help you plan your next steps.

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

Most aspiring teachers complete the process in four to six years. This typically includes earning a bachelor's degree, completing an approved teacher preparation program, passing required tests, and fulfilling student teaching hours. Those who pursue graduate licensure or alternative routes may need additional time depending on the pathway and prior education.

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

Yes, but you'll still need to meet Michigan's certification standards. If you already hold a non-teaching bachelor's degree, you can qualify through an alternative route that includes pedagogy training and student teaching. Programs like Michigan's Alternative Route to Certification (ARC) help career changers transition into the classroom.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

Alternative certification programs are often the quickest option. These programs let you begin teaching under a temporary permit while completing coursework and mentorship requirements. They're designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and want to teach without completing a full four-year education degree first.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Michigan for Free?

You may qualify for financial support through scholarships, loan forgiveness programs, or service-based grants. Michigan offers funding options for high-need subject areas, and some federal programs forgive student loans for teachers who work in underserved districts. Many educators also reduce costs by attending cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

You cannot start teaching in a full-time role. Michigan requires a bachelor's degree and completion of a state-approved educator preparation program for licensure. However, an associate degree can qualify you for support roles, such as paraprofessional positions, or serve as a starting point before transferring to a four-year teacher education program.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Michigan

Michigan offers multiple teacher preparation programs to help you meet certification requirements. Explore accredited education degrees at the colleges listed on Learn.org to find a pathway that fits your goals.