How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Tennessee 2025

If you're planning to teach grades six through eight, you'll need to meet specific state certification requirements, including education, testing, and field experience. Understanding how to become a middle school teacher can help you prepare for each step in the process. This article outlines everything you need to know about earning your license, choosing a subject area, and finding teaching degree programs across Tennessee.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers guide students through a critical stage of academic and personal development, typically working with learners in grades six through eight. They focus on subject-specific instruction, such as English, math, or science, while helping students build communication skills, personal responsibility, and independence. Teachers also play a key role in supporting social-emotional growth during early adolescence.

To qualify for the role, you must meet specific middle school teacher educational requirements, including a bachelor's degree, completion of an approved educator preparation program, and state licensure.

Typical responsibilities for middle school teachers in Tennessee include:

• create and deliver lessons aligned with Tennessee academic standards
• assess and track student learning outcomes
• differentiate instruction for students with varying needs and abilities
• manage classroom behavior and maintain a safe learning environment
• use data and technology to support instructional decisions
• collaborate with colleagues, administrators, and families
• participate in professional learning and licensure renewal
• encourage student engagement through clubs, activities, or advisory roles

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Tennessee

The requirements to become a middle school teacher include several state-specific steps in Tennessee. You'll need to earn a qualifying degree, complete a state-approved educator preparation program, pass required licensure exams, and apply for a Tennessee teaching license. The Tennessee Department of Education offers different pathways for first-time teachers, depending on their background and educational experience.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Your journey begins with earning a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Most candidates major in education or in the content area they plan to teach while completing general education coursework and electives.

Tennessee requires middle school teachers to demonstrate subject-area knowledge and pedagogical competence. If your degree is not in education, you can still qualify by completing an approved educator preparation program after graduation, either through post-baccalaureate study or an alternative pathway.

Step 2: Complete an Educator Preparation Program

To qualify for a Tennessee teaching license, you must complete an educator preparation program approved by the Tennessee Department of Education. These programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to lead a classroom, including coursework in instructional strategies, assessment, and classroom management.

Programs also include a student teaching component where you'll gain hands-on experience under the guidance of a licensed teacher. Tennessee's approved providers include traditional universities, graduate-level programs, and alternative licensure pathways for career changers.

Step 3: Pass the Required Licensure Exams

All prospective middle school teachers in Tennessee must pass licensure exams administered by ETS. This typically includes the Praxis Subject Assessment for your teaching area (such as Middle School Mathematics or English Language Arts) and the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) for grades five to nine.

Your preparation program will guide you in registering for the correct tests and may offer support resources for studying. Passing scores must be sent to the Tennessee Department of Education as part of your licensure application.

Step 4: Apply for the Practitioner Teacher License

Once you've completed your degree, preparation program, and passed all required exams, you can apply for the Practitioner License, Tennessee's initial three-year teaching license. Applications are submitted through TNCompass and must include official transcripts, test scores, and program completion documentation.

The Practitioner License allows you to begin teaching in a Tennessee public school while working toward full licensure. During this time, you'll typically complete a teacher induction program or mentoring experience in your district.

Step 5: Advance to the Professional License

After three years of teaching under the Practitioner License, you may apply for a Professional License, which is valid for six years. To qualify, you must receive a recommendation from your employing school district and receive an evaluation score of ''at expectations'' or higher on your teacher evaluation.

You'll also need to complete any remaining professional development or additional coursework required by your district or licensure area. The Professional License must be renewed every six years and requires ongoing growth through approved continuing education.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

In Tennessee, teachers must earn subject-specific endorsements to teach at the middle school level. These endorsements are tied to both the subject area and the intended grade range, typically grades six through eight. To qualify, you'll need to complete relevant coursework, pass licensure exams, and finish a state-approved educator preparation program.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To teach mathematics in Tennessee middle schools, you'll need a math endorsement for the middle grades. This requires a bachelor's degree that includes coursework in algebra, geometry, probability, and related subjects, along with a teacher preparation program that trains you to instruct young adolescents.

You must also pass the Praxis Middle School Mathematics (5164) exam and the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) for grades five through nine. Once licensed, you'll be qualified to teach math to students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grade classrooms across the state.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

Future science teachers can earn a middle school science endorsement by completing a degree that includes biology, chemistry, physics, and earth or space science. Your educator preparation program must also include training in lab safety, scientific inquiry, and age-appropriate instructional methods.

Licensure requires passing the Praxis Middle School Science (5442) exam and the PLT for fifth through ninth grade. Field placements and student teaching must occur in middle-level science settings to ensure readiness for Tennessee classrooms.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

To teach history or social studies to students in grades six through eight, you'll need a social studies endorsement for the middle grades. Your degree should include coursework in U.S. and world history, geography, civics, and economics, as well as training in social studies education methods.

Candidates must pass the Praxis Middle School Social Studies (5089) exam and the PLT for grades five to nine. Student teaching must take place in a middle school social studies classroom to meet Tennessee's licensure requirements.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

Teaching English language arts in middle school requires a subject-area endorsement in English for the appropriate grade band. Your degree must include classes in adolescent literature, writing instruction, grammar, and reading comprehension, paired with a teacher preparation program focused on literacy strategies.

To earn your license, you'll need to pass the Praxis Middle School English Language Arts (5047) exam and the PLT for grades five through nine. Clinical placements and student teaching should be completed in English classrooms that serve middle-grade learners.

Education Degree Programs in Tennessee

Colleges across Tennessee offer educator preparation programs designed to meet the state's licensing standards for middle school teachers. These programs include subject-specific coursework, clinical experiences, and support for passing required licensure exams.

1. Middle Tennessee State University

Middle Tennessee State University offers a Bachelor of Science in middle level education with a concentration in mathematics for students preparing to teach grades six through eight. The program includes coursework in adolescent development, instructional strategies, and mathematics content, along with multiple field placements and a full semester of student teaching.

Students are prepared to meet state licensure requirements and pass the Praxis exams for middle grades math and professional teaching. Advising support and partnerships with local schools help students gain real-world classroom experience throughout the program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,814 (in-state); $31,674 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) offers a Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in middle grades education for individuals seeking initial licensure. This graduate-level program is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree and want to teach subjects such as English, math, science, or social studies in grades six through eight.

The curriculum includes coursework in pedagogy, adolescent learning, and subject-area methods, along with a full student teaching experience. ETSU also provides add-on endorsement options for currently licensed teachers seeking to expand into middle grades. All licensure pathways are approved by the Tennessee Department of Education.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,994 (in-state); $15,194 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University prepares aspiring middle school teachers through both undergraduate and graduate pathways. Undergraduate students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in education with a focus on teaching social studies in grades six through eight. Graduate students have the option to earn a Master of Arts in Teaching with specializations in middle grades math or science.

Each program integrates education coursework with field experiences in local schools, culminating in a semester of student teaching. Certification support is available through the Ready2Teach program, which helps candidates meet state licensure requirements and add subject endorsements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,720 (in-state); $15,480 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University (TSU) offers a Bachelor of Science in education for students preparing to teach at the middle school level. The program includes pathways for grades six through eight licensure in core subject areas such as math, science, English, and social studies. Students complete coursework in educational psychology, instructional technology, and content-specific pedagogy.

Field experiences begin early and expand to include full-time student teaching during the final semester. TSU also supports licensure preparation and offers resources for students pursuing additional endorsements or graduate study.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,438 (in-state); $23,910 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Aspiring middle school educators can prepare for licensure through several subject-specific pathways at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Options include undergraduate licensure programs in English language arts, math, science, and social studies, along with alternative routes for those who already hold a bachelor's degree.

The curriculum blends theory and practice with a focus on adolescent learning, instructional methods, and assessment strategies. All candidates gain hands-on classroom experience through clinical placements and complete a full semester of student teaching to meet licensure requirements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,448 (in-state); $18,512 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

Middle School Teacher Salary in Tennessee

Teacher salaries in Tennessee vary by district, experience level, and subject area. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average middle school teacher salary in Tennessee is $56,610 per year. While this is below the national average, many districts offer bonuses, annual raises, or additional pay for high-demand subject areas. Teachers with advanced degrees or certifications may also qualify for higher salaries and leadership roles within their schools.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Tennessee

Nationally, employment for middle school teachers is expected to decline by 1% between 2023 and 2033. However, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that approximately 41,400 middle school teaching positions will open each year due to retirements and teachers leaving the profession.

In Tennessee, many districts continue to experience shortages in subject areas like math and science, which may offer more job security. These ongoing needs make middle school education a promising option for qualified new teachers entering the field.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Students in Tennessee pursuing a degree in education can access several types of financial aid to help pay for school. Completing the FAFSA is the first step in determining eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Many online colleges that accept financial aid also offer teacher preparation programs that qualify for federal funding.

In addition, Tennessee offers several state-based financial aid programs to support future educators. The HOPE Scholarship is funded by the state lottery and awarded to eligible high school graduates who attend an in-state college or university. Recipients must meet GPA and ACT/SAT requirements and maintain academic progress to continue receiving funds throughout their degree program.

The Tennessee Promise provides recent high school graduates with tuition-free access to community and technical colleges in the state. Students must complete mentoring and community service requirements to remain eligible for this last-dollar scholarship program.

The Tennessee Future Teacher Scholarship offers forgivable loans to students who plan to become licensed teachers in Tennessee public schools. To qualify for loan forgiveness, recipients must agree to teach for one year in a Tennessee school for each year the loan was received.

Individual colleges and universities in Tennessee may also offer institutional scholarships for education majors. These awards often support students preparing to teach in high-need fields like math, science, or special education.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Tennessee

If you're planning to teach in Tennessee, understanding the certification process and available pathways can help you prepare. The questions below cover how long it takes to get licensed, alternative routes, and ways to reduce the cost of becoming a teacher.

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

Becoming a licensed middle school teacher in Tennessee usually takes four to five years. This includes earning a bachelor's degree, completing a state-approved educator preparation program, passing Praxis exams, and applying for a Practitioner License. Some programs offer accelerated timelines, but most full-time students complete all requirements within this typical range.

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

Yes, individuals without a traditional teaching degree can still become licensed through an alternative educator preparation program. These programs are designed for those who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. They provide coursework, mentoring, and field experience while you begin teaching under a Practitioner License.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest route to the classroom is through an alternative licensure pathway. These programs allow you to teach while completing certification requirements, often in one to two years. They are ideal for career changers who want to begin working in schools while finishing required coursework and training.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Tennessee for Free?

You may qualify for free or reduced tuition through programs like the Tennessee Promise, HOPE Scholarship, or the Tennessee Teaching Scholars Program. These resources help cover college costs, especially if you commit to teaching in high-need subject areas or schools. Additional aid may be available through university scholarships.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

You cannot become a licensed teacher in Tennessee with only an associate degree, but you can use it as a first step. Many students with associate degrees transfer into bachelor's degree programs in education. You may also work as a paraprofessional or classroom aide while completing further requirements.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Tennessee

Tennessee colleges offer educator preparation programs that support students from their first education course through licensure. Browse the accredited teaching degrees featured on Learn.org to find the best fit for your goals.