How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Minnesota 2025

Understanding how to become a middle school teacher is the first step toward starting your career in the classroom. If you want to teach grades five through eight, you'll need to meet Minnesota's licensing standards, which include completing a degree program, passing exams, and applying through the state's tiered licensure system.

This guide outlines the full certification process, subject-area requirements, teaching salaries, job prospects, and available financial aid. Whether you're just starting college or changing careers, Minnesota offers flexible pathways to help you enter the teaching profession.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers play a pivotal role in helping students bridge the gap between childhood and adolescence, both academically and socially. They often specialize in a particular subject and are responsible for guiding students in grades five through eight as they build more complex skills in reading, math, science, and beyond.

Meeting Minnesota's middle school teacher educational requirements involves earning a degree, completing a state-approved preparation program, and qualifying for licensure through the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB).

In this role, you may be expected to:

• plan and deliver instruction aligned with Minnesota Academic Standards
• teach core subjects such as English, math, science, or social studies
• monitor student progress and adjust lessons based on performance data
• foster a supportive classroom environment that encourages student growth
• communicate regularly with parents, guardians, and school staff
• collaborate with colleagues to support interdisciplinary learning and student needs
• engage in school-wide initiatives, training, and professional development

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Minnesota

If you're researching the requirements to become a middle school teacher, Minnesota offers a structured path to licensure through the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). Most candidates follow a traditional route that includes completing a bachelor's degree and teacher preparation program, although alternative and nontraditional options are also available.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

You must first complete a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. While your major may be in a specific content area like mathematics or English, the program must also include education-related coursework or be paired with a separate teacher preparation program approved by PELSB.

If your degree program does not include teacher preparation, you may pursue additional coursework post-graduation. Regardless of your academic background, your degree must align with the content area and grade band you plan to teach, typically grades five through eight for middle school educators.

Step 2: Complete a Minnesota-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

All prospective teachers must complete a PELSB-approved teacher preparation program, which can be part of your undergraduate degree or a standalone program after graduation. These programs include coursework in teaching methods, student development, curriculum planning, and culturally responsive instruction.

In addition to classroom instruction, you'll complete field experiences and a full-time student teaching placement in a Minnesota school. This hands-on component ensures you gain real-world teaching experience under the supervision of a licensed educator, which is essential for meeting the state's licensure standards.

Step 3: Pass the Required Licensure Exams

Minnesota requires prospective teachers to pass a series of exams to demonstrate their readiness to teach. These typically include content-specific tests aligned with your subject area and the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) for pedagogy.

You must meet the minimum passing scores established by PELSB. Exam results must be submitted as part of your license application and help ensure that teachers entering the classroom have the knowledge and skills needed to support student learning.

Step 4: Apply for a Tiered Teaching License

Minnesota uses a four-tiered licensure system. Most new teachers apply for a Tier 3 license after completing their degree, preparation program, and required exams. This license is valid for three years and can be renewed or advanced based on teaching experience and professional development.

You must submit an application through the PELSB portal and include transcripts, test scores, and verification of program completion. Depending on your background, you may also qualify for a Tier 1 or Tier 2 license if you are pursuing an alternative route.

Step 5: Maintain or Advance Your License

To continue teaching, you must renew your license at regular intervals and complete required professional development. Teachers holding a Tier 3 license can apply for a Tier 4 license after three years of successful teaching and additional documentation, such as evaluations and mentorship completion.

Advancing to a Tier 4 license provides greater career stability and long-term licensure benefits. Maintaining active status also allows you to continue teaching in Minnesota schools and explore additional endorsements or leadership roles.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

To teach middle school in Minnesota, educators typically earn a license in a subject-specific content area for grades five through eight. Each pathway requires a bachelor's degree, completion of a Minnesota-approved teacher preparation program, and passing scores on content and pedagogy exams. Below are the requirements for the most common subject areas.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

Middle school math teachers must complete a bachelor's degree that includes significant coursework in mathematics topics such as algebra, geometry, and data analysis. The program must also include a teacher preparation component approved by PELSB, focused on adolescent learning and math instruction.

In addition to completing the required coursework and field experiences, candidates must pass the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) for middle-level mathematics. Once all requirements are met, you can apply for a Tier 3 license to teach math in grades five through eight.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

To teach science at the middle level, you'll need a degree that includes coursework in life, earth, and physical sciences, as well as science teaching methods. Your educator preparation program must also include clinical experiences and instruction on how to support diverse learners in science classrooms.

You must pass the MTLE content exam for middle level science and the pedagogy test for your intended grade band. After meeting all education and testing requirements, you can apply for a Tier 3 license that allows you to teach general science in grades five through eight.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

Aspiring history teachers must earn a degree with coursework in U.S. history, world history, geography, government, and economics. Your program must also include a teacher preparation component that covers adolescent development, classroom management, and instructional strategies for middle grades.

Candidates are required to pass the MTLE content exam in social studies and the pedagogy exam for grades five through twelve. After completing these steps, you can apply for licensure to teach history or social studies at the middle school level.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

To become a licensed middle school English language arts teacher, you'll need a degree that includes classes in composition, literature, grammar, reading theory, and writing instruction. A PELSB-approved teacher preparation program must also be completed as part of your academic path.

In addition to your coursework and student teaching experience, you must pass the MTLE content exam in communication arts and literature, along with the pedagogy test for your grade level. These steps qualify you to apply for a license to teach English language arts in grades five through eight.

Education Degree Programs in Minnesota

Colleges across Minnesota offer teacher preparation programs that lead to licensure for teaching in middle school classrooms. These programs include content-specific coursework, classroom experience, and pathways aligned with state licensure requirements.

1. Minnesota State University, Mankato

Minnesota State University, Mankato offers multiple pathways for students preparing to teach grades five through 12. Undergraduate programs include licensure options in subjects such as English, mathematics, life science, social studies, and more, each paired with education courses that meet Minnesota PELSB standards.

Students complete core coursework in teaching methods, learning theory, and diversity in education, along with extensive field experiences in partner schools. Each program culminates in student teaching and leads to eligibility for a Minnesota Tier 3 teaching license.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,954 (in-state); $19,698 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. St. Cloud State University

Through its School of Education, St. Cloud State University prepares students to teach in grades five through 12 with licensure options in subjects like math, science, English, and social studies. Programs combine academic coursework with training in culturally responsive teaching, instructional planning, and classroom assessment.

Students gain hands-on experience through supervised field placements in local schools, culminating in a full semester of student teaching. Graduates are eligible to apply for a Tier 3 Minnesota teaching license in their chosen subject area upon completion of all program and testing requirements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,386 (in-state); $19,912 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Minnesota State University Moorhead

Minnesota State University Moorhead offers a variety of subject-specific education majors designed for students who want to teach in middle or secondary schools. Students can focus their studies in areas like English, math, biology, or social studies, while also learning how to support adolescent learners across different classroom settings.

The program structure emphasizes early, meaningful engagement in local schools, allowing students to connect theory with practice from the start. Coursework highlights equity in education, instructional design, and content-specific pedagogy, preparing graduates to confidently manage and adapt to the realities of today's middle school classrooms.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,838 (in-state); $17,675 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Winona State University

Winona State University offers four specialized middle-level teaching programs for students who want to teach grades five through eight: communication arts and literature, mathematics, science, and social studies. Each program is designed specifically for middle school education rather than broad secondary licensure, providing targeted coursework and methods training for younger adolescents.

Students take content-specific classes alongside education courses focused on developmental psychology, inclusive practices, and middle school philosophy. Early clinical experiences and a capstone student teaching placement help future teachers build confidence and skill in real classrooms, working directly with middle-grade learners.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,933 (in-state); $16,102 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Southwest Minnesota State University

Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) has a secondary education program that prepares students to teach in content areas commonly taught in middle school, including English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students major in a subject area while completing a sequence of education courses that focus on pedagogy, assessment, and classroom management.

The program includes multiple practicum experiences, allowing students to work with diverse learners in real school settings before their final student teaching semester. SMSU's emphasis on rural education also equips graduates to address the unique needs of smaller communities and school districts.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,918 (in-state); $10,918 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Middle School Teacher Salary in Minnesota

The average middle school teacher salary in Minnesota is $67,540 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure represents the mean wage for teachers working in grades five through eight across the state. Salaries may vary depending on district funding, years of experience, and geographic location.

Educators in the Twin Cities metro area often earn higher salaries than those in rural districts. Minnesota's average is above the national mean of $62,970, making it a relatively strong-paying state for middle school educators compared to many others.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Minnesota

Employment for middle school teachers is expected to decline by 1% nationally between 2023 and 2033. Despite this trend, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 41,400 job openings each year due to retirements and teachers leaving the profession.

In Minnesota, local workforce needs and subject-area shortages, especially in math, science, and special education, may continue to generate opportunities for new teachers. Those who are willing to work in high-need districts or hold multiple endorsements may have stronger job prospects than average.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Students in Minnesota who are working toward a teaching degree can take advantage of both federal and state financial aid opportunities. Completing the FAFSA is essential to qualify for options like Pell Grants, low-interest loans, and work-study. Eligible funds can often be applied to tuition at cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA.

State-based options include the Minnesota Teacher Candidate Grant and the Aspiring Teachers of Color Scholarship Pilot Program, which offer aid to eligible students who commit to teaching in Minnesota after graduation. Additional scholarships may be available through local institutions and school districts.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Minnesota

If you're planning to teach middle school in Minnesota, understanding the timeline, licensure process, and financial options is key. These frequently asked questions can help you explore different pathways and determine which route best fits your background, goals, and resources as you prepare for the classroom.

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

It typically takes four to five years to become a licensed middle school teacher in Minnesota. This includes completing a bachelor's degree, an approved teacher preparation program, student teaching, and passing required exams. Some alternative routes may shorten the process depending on your prior education and experience.

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

Yes, Minnesota offers alternative licensure pathways for candidates with a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field. These options allow you to begin teaching under certain conditions while completing a teacher preparation program. This route is especially useful for career changers or individuals with subject-area expertise.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest path is through a Tier 1 or Tier 2 license, which may allow you to begin teaching while completing program requirements. This route is ideal for those who already hold a bachelor's degree and want to transition quickly into the classroom through an approved provider.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Minnesota for Free?

You may be able to reduce or eliminate costs by applying for state-funded programs such as the Minnesota Future Teachers Grant or scholarships for underrepresented groups. Federal financial aid, loan forgiveness, and local district support may also be available to help cover tuition and certification costs.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

An associate degree alone does not qualify you for a teaching license in Minnesota. However, it can serve as a foundation for transferring into a bachelor's program that includes licensure preparation. Completing the full degree and certification process is required to become a classroom teacher.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Minnesota

Explore accredited teacher preparation programs across Minnesota to find a path that fits your goals. Learn.org features colleges offering licensure options in core middle school subjects such as math, English, science, and social studies.