How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Wisconsin 2025

Middle school teachers support students during a key developmental stage by teaching subject-specific content and helping them build independence, confidence, and academic skills. To qualify for a teaching role in grades four through eight, you'll need to meet Wisconsin's education, testing, and licensing requirements.

Before you can teach, we'll explain how to become a middle school teacher so that you can know what's expected of you. This article outlines Wisconsin's specific steps, subject-area pathways, salary information, and financial aid options to help you plan your career path.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers are responsible for guiding students through a critical period of academic and personal growth. They teach subject-specific content while helping students build skills in communication, problem-solving, and self-management. Teachers also support students' emotional development and serve as role models during the transition from elementary to high school.

To qualify for this role, candidates must meet specific middle school teacher educational requirements, which include earning a bachelor's degree, completing an approved educator preparation program, and holding the appropriate Wisconsin teaching license.

Typical middle school teacher responsibilities include:

• developing lesson plans aligned with Wisconsin Academic Standards
• teaching core subjects like math, science, English, or social studies
• creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment
• assessing student performance and providing feedback
• managing classroom behavior and routines
• collaborating with other teachers, parents, and school staff
• participating in school functions and professional development

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Wisconsin

If you're exploring the requirements to become a middle school teacher, Wisconsin offers several approved pathways to licensure. Most candidates earn a bachelor's degree through a state-approved educator preparation program, but the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) also provides alternative options for degree-holders and career changers. Regardless of the path, all teachers must pass the required content exams and meet licensing standards to qualify for a position in grades four through eight.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree Through an Approved Program

The most common path to licensure is to complete a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution that includes a Wisconsin-approved teacher preparation program. Your degree should include coursework in the subject area you plan to teach, such as English, math, science, or social studies, alongside education classes and fieldwork.

During your program, you'll complete supervised student teaching in a middle-grade classroom, which allows you to apply teaching strategies in real-world settings. This experience is required for licensure and ensures you're prepared to manage classroom responsibilities independently after graduation.

Step 2: Pass Required Content and Pedagogy Exams

After completing your education program, you must pass a series of exams that demonstrate your readiness to teach. These may include the Praxis Subject Assessments or the Foundations of Reading Test, depending on your chosen content area and certification path.

Wisconsin also requires the edTPA, a performance-based assessment that evaluates your ability to plan lessons, assess student learning, and reflect on your teaching practice. Passing all required tests is essential to qualify for initial teacher licensure.

Step 3: Apply for a Tier I or Tier II License

Once you've completed your degree and passed the required exams, you can apply for a teaching license through the Wisconsin DPI. Most new teachers apply for a Tier II (Initial Educator) license, which is valid for three years. Some candidates may qualify for a Tier I license if they complete alternative licensure requirements.

The application process is completed online through the DPI's Educator Licensing Online (ELO) system. You'll need to upload transcripts, exam results, and program completion verification to be considered for licensure.

Step 4: Consider Alternative Licensure Routes (If Applicable)

Wisconsin also offers alternative pathways for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree but have not completed a teacher preparation program. These include post-baccalaureate certification programs and district-sponsored pathways for high-need areas.

Alternative routes often require candidates to teach under a Tier I license while completing coursework and mentorship requirements. These programs are designed to help qualified individuals earn licensure without restarting a four-year degree.

Step 5: Renew or Advance Your License

After teaching under your initial license, you'll need to complete professional development to renew or advance your license. Educators typically move from a Tier II license to a Tier III (Lifetime Educator) license after completing six semesters of teaching experience and meeting all renewal criteria.

Continuing education, mentorship, and district evaluation all play a role in the renewal process. Maintaining your license allows you to stay employed in Wisconsin schools and opens opportunities for advancement and leadership roles.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

In Wisconsin, teachers who work in middle school typically hold a license that spans grades four through eight or grades four through 12, depending on the content area and preparation program. Each subject area requires candidates to complete specific coursework and pass a content exam as part of the state's licensure process. Below are the general steps to qualify for subject-specific certification.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To teach math in Wisconsin middle schools, you'll need to complete a bachelor's degree that includes coursework in algebra, geometry, probability, statistics, and instructional strategies for adolescent learners. Your program must be approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and include field experiences in middle grades.

You must also pass the Praxis Middle School Mathematics exam or the relevant subject assessment required by your preparation program. After meeting all academic and testing requirements, you can apply for a license to teach mathematics in grades four through eight or four through 12.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

Prospective science teachers must complete a degree that includes studies in life, earth, and physical sciences, along with lab-based instruction and science teaching methods. Your teacher preparation program should also include coursework in adolescent development and classroom management.

Certification requires passing the appropriate Praxis exam or content assessment designated by your program. Once you've completed the testing and coursework, you'll be eligible to apply for a license that qualifies you to teach general or integrated science in the middle grades.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

If you want to teach history or social studies at the middle school level, you'll need a bachelor's degree that includes coursework in U.S. history, world history, civics, geography, and economics. Your education program must include pedagogical training specific to grades four through eight.

To meet certification requirements, you'll need to pass the required content test, such as the Praxis Social Studies exam or another DPI-approved assessment. Once you've completed your program and passed your exams, you can apply for a teaching license in social studies.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

To become an English language arts teacher in Wisconsin, you'll need a bachelor's degree that includes coursework in literature, composition, reading instruction, and grammar. Your educator preparation program should also include instruction on teaching strategies that support literacy development in middle-grade learners.

You must pass the appropriate content exam, such as the Praxis Middle School English Language Arts or a state-approved equivalent. After meeting all education and testing requirements, you'll be eligible for a teaching license in English language arts for grades four through eight or four through 12.

Education Degree Programs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin colleges offer teacher preparation programs that lead to licensure in middle school subject areas. These programs include classroom instruction, clinical fieldwork, and support for meeting state certification requirements.

1. University of Wisconsin�Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin�Whitewater offers two distinct pathways for aspiring middle school teachers. Students can choose a Bachelor of Science in education in elementary/middle education (grades one to eight) or middle/secondary education (grades four to 12), depending on their preferred teaching range and subject focus.

Both programs include foundational education coursework, specialized content-area instruction, and multiple field experiences, culminating in a semester of student teaching. Areas of emphasis include English, mathematics, science, and social studies, preparing graduates for initial licensure through the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,616 (in-state); $18,716 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. University of Wisconsin�Oshkosh

At the University of Wisconsin�Oshkosh, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in education with a focus on secondary education, which qualifies them to teach in grades four to 12. This program is ideal for future middle school teachers seeking licensure in content areas such as English, math, science, or social studies.

The curriculum combines subject-area coursework with professional education classes and field experiences in diverse school settings. Students complete multiple practicum placements and a full semester of student teaching to meet Wisconsin certification requirements and prepare for a successful teaching career.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,530 (in-state); $16,444 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

3. University of Wisconsin�Platteville

The University of Wisconsin�Platteville offers a flexible path for students interested in teaching grades four through twelve. Through its Bachelor of Science in education programs, students can choose a subject concentration, such as science, English, social studies, or math, that aligns with their career goals in middle or high school education.

Coursework blends foundational teaching principles with hands-on practice in real classrooms. Throughout the program, students gain experience through supervised fieldwork and gradually take on greater teaching responsibilities during student teaching. Graduates meet the eligibility criteria to pursue state licensure in their chosen content area.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,715 (in-state); $17,675 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

4. University of Wisconsin�Stevens Point

The University of Wisconsin�Stevens Point provides multiple options for students pursuing careers in middle school education. The university offers bachelor's degree programs that lead to initial licensure in grades kindergarten through nine, with opportunities to focus on core content areas such as math, science, language arts, and social studies.

Students benefit from coursework in instructional planning, assessment, and inclusive practices, along with hands-on classroom experiences. For those already certified in elementary education, UW�Stevens Point also offers an add-on certification in elementary and middle school (K-9), expanding licensure to include upper-grade levels in Wisconsin schools.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,703 (in-state); $18,729.18 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

5. University of Wisconsin�Milwaukee

At the University of Wisconsin�Milwaukee, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in education that prepares them to teach in elementary and middle school settings, specifically kindergarten through ninth grade. The program emphasizes culturally responsive teaching and integrates subject-area preparation with coursework on classroom management and instructional design.

Teacher candidates participate in community-based field experiences starting early in the program and complete a semester-long student teaching placement in their final year. Graduates are eligible for K-9 licensure, qualifying them to teach core subjects in Wisconsin middle schools.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,398 (in-state); $22,398 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Middle School Teacher Salary in Wisconsin

The average middle school teacher salary in Wisconsin is $65,640 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure reflects the mean wage for educators teaching grades six through eight across the state. Salaries may vary based on experience, location, and district size, with higher wages often found in urban or suburban areas with larger student populations.

Wisconsin's average is slightly above the national average of $62,970, offering a competitive pay, particularly for licensed teachers with advanced credentials or endorsements. Teachers in high-need subject areas may also qualify for additional stipends or bonuses.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Wisconsin

Although the national employment outlook for middle school teachers shows a projected 1% decline from 2023 to 2033, demand remains steady. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates about 41,400 openings each year, largely due to retirements and teachers transitioning to other careers.

In Wisconsin, local staffing needs and subject-area shortages may continue to create opportunities, especially in rural districts or STEM-related fields. Teachers who are flexible in their grade level or content area may have the best job prospects.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Students in Wisconsin preparing for a teaching career have access to a range of financial aid options. Federal programs such as Pell Grants, subsidized loans, and work-study are available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many online colleges that accept financial aid also allow Wisconsin students to apply federal aid toward their tuition.

In addition, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and Higher Educational Aids Board (HEAB) offer state-based support, including the Wisconsin Minority Teacher Loan Program and the Teacher Education Loan Program (TELP). These programs provide forgivable loans or grants for students who commit to teaching in Wisconsin schools after graduation.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Wisconsin

If you're planning to teach in a Wisconsin middle school, it's important to understand the certification timeline, available pathways, and financial aid options. These frequently asked questions can help clarify what to expect as you begin your teaching journey.

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

It typically takes four to five years, which includes earning a bachelor's degree, completing a teacher preparation program, and fulfilling student teaching and testing requirements. Alternative pathways may take less time depending on your prior experience, but all teachers must meet licensure standards set by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

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

Yes, if you already hold a bachelor's degree in another field, you may qualify for an alternative licensure route. These options allow you to teach while completing the necessary education coursework and certification requirements through a district-sponsored or post-baccalaureate program.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The quickest option is Wisconsin's alternative licensure route, which allows degree-holders to begin teaching under a provisional license. While working in the classroom, you complete pedagogy coursework and mentoring requirements. This pathway typically takes one to two years and is available in high-need subject areas.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Wisconsin for Free?

You may be eligible for financial support through grants, scholarships, and forgivable loan programs. Wisconsin offers aid to students who commit to teaching in shortage areas or underserved schools. Completing the FAFSA is also essential to access federal financial aid for tuition and educational expenses.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

No. An associate degree alone does not meet Wisconsin's teacher licensure requirements. However, it can be used to transfer into a bachelor's program in education, which is required to become licensed and begin teaching in public middle or secondary schools across the state.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Wisconsin

Take the next step toward becoming a licensed teacher by exploring accredited education programs across Wisconsin. Learn.org features colleges that offer certification pathways in a range of middle school subject areas.