How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Washington 2025

Understanding how to become a middle school teacher is key if you're planning to teach in Washington. The state requires you to complete a bachelor's degree, pass specific exams, and earn a Residency Teaching Certificate with a subject-area endorsement. This guide walks you through each step, including licensure requirements, subject-specific pathways, job outlook, and financial aid opportunities to help you start your teaching career with confidence.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers in Washington play a vital role in helping students transition from elementary to high school by teaching core academic subjects and supporting social-emotional growth. These educators typically teach grades six through eight and specialize in areas like math, English, science, or social studies. They must adapt their instruction to meet the learning needs of early adolescents and follow state academic standards.

Middle school teacher educational requirements in Washington include a bachelor's degree, completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program, and passing required exams. Teachers are also expected to meet Washington's professional and ethical standards.

• develop and implement subject-specific lesson plans based on state standards
• assess and monitor student learning and progress
• use instructional technology and classroom management strategies
• collaborate with colleagues, parents, and support staff
• support students' academic, emotional, and social development
• differentiate instruction for diverse learning needs
• participate in ongoing professional development
• supervise extracurricular or advisory activities

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Washington

Washington requires prospective middle school teachers to complete a series of steps before earning a teaching certificate. These include earning a bachelor's degree, completing a state-approved teacher preparation program, passing the necessary exams, and submitting a certification application. If you're exploring teaching options in other states, you can also review general requirements to become a middle school teacher to compare pathways.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

To begin, you must earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Most candidates choose to major in education or a core subject area they wish to teach, such as English, math, or science. Your degree should include general education coursework, subject-specific studies, and foundational teaching knowledge.

In Washington, your bachelor's degree must align with the endorsement area you plan to teach. If your major is not in education, you'll need to complete additional coursework through a separate teacher preparation program to meet state certification standards.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

Washington requires all future teachers to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program. These programs include instructional strategies, classroom management, educational psychology, and a student teaching internship. Many programs are integrated into bachelor's degrees, while others are available at the graduate or post-baccalaureate level.

Programs must also include coursework in culturally responsive teaching and special education awareness. During your student teaching experience, you'll work under the guidance of a certified teacher to gain hands-on experience in a middle school classroom.

Step 3: Pass the Required Certification Exams

All candidates must pass the appropriate exams to demonstrate their content knowledge and teaching readiness. These include the NES (National Evaluation Series) or WEST-E (Washington Educator Skills Test--Endorsements) exam in your subject area, and the WEST-B basic skills test unless you qualify for a test alternative.

The testing process ensures that you meet Washington's academic and professional standards. You'll need to submit passing scores as part of your certification application, and in some cases, universities may require exam completion before beginning student teaching.

Step 4: Apply for a Residency Teaching Certificate

Once you've completed your degree, teacher preparation program, and testing requirements, you can apply for a Residency Teaching Certificate--the entry-level license for educators in Washington. Applications are submitted through the OSPI E-Certification portal and must include transcripts, test scores, program verification, and a background check.

The Residency Certificate is valid for five years and authorizes you to teach in your endorsement area. You'll also be expected to complete a teacher induction program and pursue professional development while working toward the Professional Certificate.

Step 5: Maintain and Upgrade Your Certification

To continue teaching, you must renew your Residency Certificate or apply for a Professional Certificate after five years. This requires additional professional development, which may include coursework, mentorship, or participation in a Professional Growth Plan (PGP).

Washington encourages ongoing educator learning to improve student outcomes. Advancing to the Professional Certificate offers greater career stability and may open doors to leadership roles or salary increases within school districts.

Education Degree Programs in Washington

Washington universities offer education degrees that prepare students to teach middle grades with a subject-area endorsement. These programs combine classroom instruction, fieldwork, and certification support aligned with state teaching requirements.

1. Western Washington University

Western Washington University offers multiple pathways for aspiring middle school teachers, including a Bachelor of Arts in Education with endorsements in core subjects such as English, social studies, and science. The Secondary Education program prepares students to teach in grades 5-12 and includes coursework in instructional methods, adolescent development, and equity in education.

Students interested in STEM teaching can also pursue the Middle School STEM Teaching program, a specialized pathway that focuses on math and science content alongside hands-on teaching experience. All programs include a full-time student teaching placement and meet the state's licensure requirements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,523 (in-state); $27,690 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers several Bachelor of Arts in Education (BAE) programs designed to prepare middle school teachers with subject-area endorsements. Options include the Transition to Teaching BAE for students pursuing general education pathways and specialized programs in middle-level science and mathematics through the College of STEM.

The science education track combines courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and geology with teaching methods specific to grades 5-9. The math endorsement option includes content mastery and field-based experiences. All programs include student teaching placements and meet Washington's licensure requirements for middle grades educators.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,776 (in-state); $24,963 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: NWCCU

3. Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics - Middle Level Education, designed for students who want to teach math in grades 5-9. The program includes in-depth coursework in algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics, paired with instructional strategies for teaching adolescents. Students also complete general education and pedagogy requirements that align with Washington's teacher certification standards.

CWU also provides a STEM Teaching transfer pathway, allowing students to specialize in math, science, or a combination of both through coordinated partnerships with community colleges. The program includes classroom fieldwork and a full-time student teaching experience, preparing graduates for immediate certification and employment in middle school settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $7,231 (in-state); $25,340 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: NWCCU

4. Washington State University

Washington State University offers undergraduate teacher preparation programs that lead to certification for teaching in grades 5-12. Students earn a bachelor's degree in a content area such as English, mathematics, or science, while completing professional education coursework through the College of Education. The program includes classroom management, instructional methods, and adolescent development, along with a full semester of student teaching.

For those interested in expanding their qualifications, WSU also offers add-on endorsements in middle-level mathematics. These endorsements allow certified teachers or teacher candidates to meet the growing demand for math instruction in grades 5-9 across Washington.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,950.50 (in-state); $14,230 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: NWCCU

5. Seattle Pacific University

Seattle Pacific University offers an undergraduate teacher preparation pathway that allows students to earn a bachelor's degree alongside Washington teacher certification. The program includes a major in a teachable subject--such as English or history--paired with professional coursework in education theory, adolescent development, and classroom management. Students also participate in practicum experiences and a full-time student teaching placement.

For those who already hold a bachelor's degree, SPU provides alternative routes to certification through graduate-level programs. These flexible options allow career changers to earn teaching credentials while working in the classroom. All certification routes meet Washington's Residency Teaching Certificate requirements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $39,492 (in-state); $39,492 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: NWCCU

Middle School Teacher Salary in Washington

The average middle school teacher salary in Washington is $94,230 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the state's cost of living and investment in education. Salaries may vary depending on location, district funding, years of experience, and additional certifications. Teachers working in urban districts or high-need subject areas may earn more. Washington school districts also offer salary increases for advanced degrees and longevity, making teaching a financially sustainable career for long-term educators.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Washington

Employment of middle school teachers is projected to decline by 1% nationally from 2023 to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, the need to replace teachers leaving the profession will still result in about 41,400 openings each year.

In Washington, continued enrollment growth in some districts and ongoing teacher retirements are expected to maintain demand for qualified educators. Teachers with endorsements in high-need areas like math, science, and special education may have stronger job prospects.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Students in Washington pursuing a teaching degree can access a range of financial aid options to reduce the cost of college. By completing the FAFSA, students may qualify for Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Many online colleges that accept financial aid offer teacher preparation programs that are eligible for federal aid.

Washington also offers state-based support, including the Washington College Grant and the Future Teacher Conditional Scholarship. Some teacher preparation programs participate in the Teacher Shortage Conditional Scholarship, which forgives tuition in exchange for a service commitment in shortage areas. Be sure to explore aid opportunities through the Washington Student Achievement Council.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Washington

If you're considering a teaching career in Washington, you may have questions about certification pathways, degree requirements, and how long the process takes. The answers below address common concerns about entering the classroom and help you understand what to expect.

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

It typically takes four to five years to become a licensed middle school teacher in Washington. This includes earning a bachelor's degree, completing a state-approved teacher preparation program, and fulfilling student teaching and exam requirements. Some candidates complete these steps through integrated programs, while others may pursue certification after earning a non-teaching degree. The total time can vary based on your academic background and whether you attend full or part time.

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

Yes, you can become a teacher in Washington without a degree in education, but you must still complete a state-approved teacher preparation program. If you hold a bachelor's degree in another subject, you can enter the profession through an alternative route or post-baccalaureate program. These programs are designed to help career changers meet certification requirements while gaining classroom experience. You will still need to pass exams and apply for a Residency Teaching Certificate.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest path to the classroom is an alternative certification route for those who already hold a bachelor's degree. These programs may allow you to teach under a conditional certificate while completing your preparation requirements. Some can be completed in as little as one to two years, depending on the program and endorsement area. This route is especially useful for individuals with content expertise who want to teach subjects like math or science.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Washington for Free?

You may qualify for grants and scholarships that cover tuition in exchange for a teaching commitment. The Teacher Shortage Conditional Scholarship helps pay for educator preparation programs if you agree to teach in a high-need area after graduation. Submitting the FAFSA opens up access to federal aid, including grants and low-interest loans. You can also apply at online colleges that accept financial aid for additional affordable options.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

An associate degree does not meet the requirements for full teacher certification in Washington. However, it can help you begin a career in education as a paraprofessional or classroom assistant. These roles provide valuable experience and may help you transition into a bachelor's program later on. Some community colleges also offer transfer pathways specifically for future educators.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Washington

Washington colleges offer flexible and affordable programs that prepare you for middle school licensure. Browse accredited teaching degrees on Learn.org to find the right path for your career goals.