Cheapest Way to Get a Teaching Credential in Memphis, TN: Degree Requirements & Certification for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Pursuing a teaching credential in Memphis, TN, offers an excellent opportunity to embark on a rewarding and impactful career. The city’s affordable educational pathways, combined with state-supported programs, provide aspiring teachers with cost-effective routes to certification.

Memphis’ diverse and growing student population creates a high demand for qualified educators, making it an ideal location for those eager to shape young minds. With a variety of accessible credentialing options, Memphis offers an environment conducive to both personal and professional growth in education.

Throughout this guide, I will provide you with insights and step-by-step information on the most affordable methods to obtain a teaching credential in Memphis. We’ll explore the necessary requirements, potential salaries, career opportunities, and much more to ensure you make informed decisions on your path to becoming an educator.

Key Points About The Cheapest Teaching Credential Programs in Memphis, TN

The average cost for a teaching credential program in Memphis is around $12,000 to $18,000, significantly lower than many other U.S. cities.
Graduates typically carry student debt averaging $25,000, but this varies by program and financial aid received.
Financial aid options include Tennessee’s HOPE Scholarship and the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program, both helping reduce education costs effectively.

What are the academic requirements for teachers in Memphis, TN?
What are the certification requirements for teachers in Memphis, TN?
How much do teaching credential programs cost in Memphis, TN?
How long does it take to get a teaching certificate in Memphis, TN?
Are there schools in Memphis, TN offering affordable teaching programs?
Should teachers in Memphis, TN pursue supplementary certifications?
Are online teaching programs cheaper than traditional ones in Memphis, TN?
How can students lower the cost of attending teaching programs in Memphis, TN?
What are the special education teacher requirements in Memphis, TN?
Are there organizations in Memphis, TN that provide financial aid for teachers?
Is investing in a teaching credential in Memphis, TN worth it?
How can you verify the accreditation and educational quality of teaching credential programs in Memphis, TN?
What career support services are available to new educators in Memphis, TN?
Are there alternative pathways aspiring educators in Memphis, TN can take to obtain credentials?
Other Things You Should Know About the Cheapest Teaching Credential Programs in Memphis, TN

What are the academic requirements for teachers in Memphis, TN?

Becoming a licensed teacher in Memphis, TN involves a clear sequence of academic steps mandated by the Tennessee Department of Education. These steps ensure candidates are well-prepared for classroom success and meet all state requirements for licensure.

Bachelor’s degree: You must hold at least a bachelor's degree educator preparation program in Memphis, TN from a regionally accredited college or university. Your major doesn’t have to be education, but it should relate closely to your intended teaching subject or grade level to align with Tennessee teaching license requirements in Memphis.
Educator preparation program (EPP): Enrollment and completion of a state-approved EPP are required. These programs, available at undergraduate or graduate levels, include “licensure-only” options for those with a bachelor’s degree seeking a cost-effective path to certification.
Supervised teaching internship: Candidates must complete clinical experience, which involves hands-on student teaching under the supervision of a licensed teacher to gain practical classroom skills.
Praxis subject assessments and edTPA portfolio: Passing the necessary Praxis exams in your teaching area and, in most cases, submitting an edTPA portfolio are essential final steps to demonstrate your readiness to teach.

For those exploring career options beyond classroom teaching, consider reviewing jobs you can do with a teaching degree, which offers insight into alternative professional pathways leveraging your education background.

The data below indicates that educators need to be adaptable, with 32.9% needing to adjust to varying work schedules. In addition, 35% of teachers must manage their pace and control pauses, while 30.3% work under supervision. The data also shows that 6.1% of educators may be required to telework, and 13.5% supervise others.

These essential cognitive and mental skills are integral to the teaching profession, and they can be developed through formal certification and practical experience, ensuring teachers are prepared for diverse teaching environments.

What are the certification requirements for teachers in Memphis, TN?

Understanding the teacher certification requirements Memphis, TN involves navigating a structured process governed by the Tennessee Department of Education. The path is designed to balance academic qualifications, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. Here’s a practical breakdown of the steps to earn your teaching license efficiently.

Choose Your Licensure Path: Most start with the Practitioner License, valid for three years. You must be at least 18, hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA, and demonstrate subject mastery through your major or Praxis exams.
Apply for a Practitioner License: If you have a job offer from a district like Shelby County Schools, you may qualify for a job-embedded Practitioner License while enrolled in a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP), allowing you to earn a salary during coursework. Without a job offer, complete the EPP first, then apply for licensure.
Testing and Assessments: Passing Praxis content knowledge exams early and completing the edTPA performance assessment before full licensure are mandatory.
Advancing to a Professional License: After teaching three years on a Practitioner License, upgrade by earning 30 Professional Development Points (PDPs) or receiving a recommendation from your district’s Director of Schools.
Renewal: Practitioner Licenses can be renewed once for up to six years total, while Professional Licenses require renewal every six years through continuing education or PDPs.

For those looking for the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Memphis, TN, leveraging a job-embedded Practitioner License while completing your EPP is a practical route that allows you to earn while you learn. Substance abuse counselors and others in specialized fields should ensure their content area aligns with testing requirements. The emergency permit is an option but limited in scope.

To explore your educational options more broadly, consider reviewing what are the best online teaching degree programs to find affordable and flexible pathways suited to your goals.

How much do teaching credential programs cost in Memphis, TN?

Teaching credential programs in Memphis, TN vary widely in cost depending on the type of program and institution. On average, affordable alternative certification programs like iteach charge around $4,250 total, with no application fee and a $250 enrollment fee. The balance is payable through interest-free installments during your field experience, when you will already be earning a teaching salary, which can ease financial burdens for many candidates.

Traditional university routes tend to be more costly. For example, the University of Memphis sets undergraduate resident tuition at $447 per credit hour, capped at $5,364. Community colleges such as Southwest Tennessee Community College offer lower in-state tuition at $191 per credit hour for Fall 2025, but additional fees like a Technology Access Fee ($18 per credit hour, max $116) and a Program Service Fee ($20 per term) should be factored in.

Out-of-state students face steeper expenses, with tuition at Southwest Tennessee Community College rising to $726 per credit hour. Additionally, prospective teachers should budget for state-required exam fees, although some programs, including iteach, incorporate test prep into their overall cost. Understanding these elements helps plan financially for credentialing in Memphis.

How long does it take to get a teaching certificate in Memphis, TN?

Obtaining a teaching certificate in Memphis, TN typically starts with earning a bachelor's degree, which takes about four years of full-time study. After this, candidates must complete an approved educator preparation program, either integrated within the bachelor's degree or as a post-baccalaureate program lasting 1-2 years.

Once the preparation program is complete, candidates need to pass Praxis II exams tailored to their teaching area and submit an edTPA portfolio showcasing their teaching skills. These requirements may take several months depending on scheduling and preparation time.

After meeting these criteria, applicants can secure a Practitioner license, Tennessee's initial teaching license valid for three years and renewable once, allowing up to six years to work toward a Professional license.

The transition to a Professional license requires three years of teaching experience plus either a recommendation from a Director of Schools or 30 Professional Development Points. Overall, the teacher certification timeline generally extends from 7 to 9 years. For those seeking the most affordable route, exploring a list of cheapest online education degree programs can be a practical step to reduce costs while maintaining a clear path to certification.

According to the data below, 47% of teachers see students' lack of interest in learning as a primary challenge, while 33% cite distractions from students' cellphones. A further 21% of teachers experience issues with students leaving their seats without permission and showing disrespect. These problems are some of the key issues addressed in teaching certification courses, which are essential for preparing teachers to navigate and resolve such obstacles in the classroom.

Are there schools in Memphis, TN offering affordable teaching programs?

For those seeking the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Memphis, TN, several accredited colleges for teacher certification offer affordable and flexible options. These pathways balance cost-efficiency with comprehensive training, making them ideal for prospective teachers who want to minimize debt while gaining valuable experience. Below are key programs to consider:

iteach Tennessee: This alternative certification program is tailored for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree. The total cost is $4,250, including a $250 enrollment fee and no application fee. Payment is made in interest-free installments during the field experience, allowing candidates to teach full-time and earn a salary while completing the program. The curriculum includes CAEP-certified online coursework, onsite supervision, up to 12 graduate credits toward a master’s degree, instructional video resources, and test preparation courses.
University of Memphis: The College of Education offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees with unique endorsements and specialized research institutes. Tuition for Tennessee residents is approximately $4,956 per semester for undergraduates and $5,970 for graduate students. The program features extensive coursework, field placements, and access to research resources, ideal for those exploring affordable teaching degree programs in Memphis.
Tennessee Grow Your Own (GYO) Apprenticeships: This state initiative, involving institutions like the University of Memphis, enables aspiring teachers to earn credentials while working in local schools. Financial support through scholarships and last dollar aid reduces out-of-pocket expenses. The program provides mentorship, customizable modules, and virtual simulations to enhance practical teaching skills.

For those interested in further advancing their education cost-effectively, exploring a cheap masters in education may be a strategic next step after certification.

Should teachers in Memphis, TN pursue supplementary certifications?

Teachers in Memphis, TN can augment their instructional skills and open additional career pathways by obtaining targeted supplementary certifications. Such credentials—particularly in areas related to student well-being and counseling—equip educators with advanced strategies for addressing classroom challenges and promoting holistic student support. This approach not only enhances teaching effectiveness but also provides opportunities to transition into specialized roles or dual career tracks. For further guidance on expanding your professional portfolio, review how to become a marriage and family therapist in Memphis.

Are online teaching programs cheaper than traditional ones in Memphis, TN?

Choosing online teaching programs can often lower the overall expenses associated with earning a teaching credential compared to traditional on-campus degrees. Online certification courses like iteach Tennessee offer a total cost of approximately $4,250, which includes options for installment payments and no initial application fees. Meanwhile, attending a physical university for education degrees typically ranges from $9,060 to $32,080 annually for undergraduate students, not factoring in additional fees or housing costs.

For those managing tight finances, these differences can be significant. Online programs allow students to:

Maintain local employment while studying, supporting income stability
Avoid extra costs related to commuting or relocating
Benefit from flexible payment schedules to ease financial pressure

Such advantages make online certification a practical and economical option for future educators in Memphis aiming to balance cost with career development efficiently.

How can students lower the cost of attending teaching programs in Memphis, TN?

There are several practical strategies for aspiring teachers to reduce the costs of education programs in Memphis, TN. By exploring alternative pathways and funding opportunities, candidates can significantly ease the financial strain of becoming licensed educators. Below are actionable steps to consider when planning your route to a teaching credential.

Enroll in the iteach Tennessee Educator Preparation Program, which costs $4,250 total and allows payment in interest-free installments while earning a full salary during your fieldwork.
Investigate Tennessee’s "Grow Your Own" initiatives, state-recognized partnerships enabling participants to earn credentials at no personal cost while receiving payment through residency models.
Opt for Christian Brothers University’s licensure-only track if you already hold a bachelor’s degree, avoiding the higher costs of a full master’s program.
Transfer credits from Northwest Mississippi Community College to reduce tuition expenses at Memphis four-year schools.
Apply for Tennessee Department of Education’s competitive Grow Your Own grants, which have supported over 250 individuals in becoming credentialed teachers for free.
Consider Le Moyne-Owen College’s education programs for potentially lower tuition compared to large universities.
Maintain minimum GPA requirements—2.75 at Christian Brothers University and 2.50 at iteach—to prevent extra costs from retaking courses.

What are the special education teacher requirements in Memphis, TN?

Special education teachers in Memphis, TN must meet additional criteria beyond the standard certification to address the diverse needs of learners. This pathway typically requires specialized coursework in special education methodologies, supervised clinical experience within special education settings, and the completion of state-mandated evaluations to ensure competency in handling students with various disabilities. Moreover, candidates may need to secure a specific endorsement that validates their ability to modify instruction and implement personalized education plans. To ensure your program aligns with current state protocols, review the special education teacher requirements in Memphis for comprehensive guidance on meeting these specialized standards.

Are there organizations in Memphis, TN that provide financial aid for teachers?

For those aiming to become teachers in Memphis, TN, several local programs can ease the financial challenges involved in obtaining teaching credentials. These resources target different needs and qualifications, providing practical support to help reduce education costs:

Memphis Education Fund focuses on enhancing public education access by investing in schools and supporting innovative teaching models. Although funding amounts vary, their efforts aim to empower educators and schools across Memphis, making them a helpful resource for financial assistance seekers.
University of Memphis Teacher Education Program (TEP) offers financial aid to admitted students, providing up to $6,250 in unsubsidized loans per semester or $12,500 per academic year. Eligibility requires formal admission into TEP and enrollment in the appropriate courses. Prospective applicants can attend monthly info sessions or visit 202 Ball Hall for details on admission and financial aid.
Junior League of Memphis (JLM) awards Innovative Teaching Grants of up to $2,500 to PK-12 teachers in the Memphis metro area. The 2024-2025 grants emphasize academic and social/emotional excellence. Grant recipients must report progress regularly and submit a project impact video. Applications close on November 1, 2024.
Tennessee State Programs provide fee waivers and discounts for eligible individuals pursuing education credentials, though some programs exclude public school teachers. For specifics, applicants should consult their institution’s Bursar's office and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission for guidance on deadlines and requirements.

Is investing in a teaching credential in Memphis, TN worth it?

Investing in a teaching credential in Memphis, TN offers practical benefits for those seeking a stable and rewarding career in education. These are the reasons this city is a great choice for teaching professionals:

Steady Job Demand: Memphis-Shelby County Schools maintain a continuous need for credentialed teachers, ensuring relatively stable employment opportunities within a large public school system committed to improving educational outcomes.

Competitive Salary Range: Entry-level teachers typically earn between $43,000 and $50,000 annually, while experienced educators can make from $55,000 up to $70,000 or more, especially in specialized roles. Given Memphis’s low cost of living, these salaries make the Memphis teacher salary worth the credential investment for many.

Cost of Living Advantage: The affordability of housing, transportation, and everyday expenses in Memphis means teacher salaries stretch further, enhancing overall quality of life for educators on modest incomes.

Community Impact and Career Growth: Beyond compensation, obtaining a teaching credential opens pathways to leadership, curriculum development, and specialized district roles, allowing for career advancement and personal fulfillment. For those looking for the most economical path, alternative certification programs and affordable local universities offer viable routes that meet Tennessee licensing requirements.

For more on the benefits of education degree, prospective teachers can explore options that balance cost and credential value effectively.

How can you verify the accreditation and educational quality of teaching credential programs in Memphis, TN?

When evaluating affordable teaching credential programs, it is essential to confirm that each institution is accredited by the Tennessee Department of Education or other recognized regional accrediting agencies. Verifying accreditation ensures that the curriculum meets established quality standards, which is critical for state licensure and future career advancement. Prospective educators should examine program curriculum details, faculty qualifications, and graduate success indicators to gauge effectiveness and outcomes. For additional comparative insights into program standards across related fields, review how to become a substance abuse counselor in Memphis.

What career support services are available to new educators in Memphis, TN?

Local school districts and credentialing institutions offer targeted job placement assistance, resume workshops, and mentorship programs that streamline the transition from certification to classroom teaching. Networking events and career fairs further connect new teachers with district leaders and educational consultants, increasing employment opportunities. Digital resources also provide real-time guidance on market trends and application strategies. For a comprehensive overview of pathway options, explore the cheapest way to become a teacher in Memphis.

Are there alternative pathways aspiring educators in Memphis, TN can take to obtain credentials?

For those aiming to become teachers in Memphis, TN, there are several efficient and budget-friendly alternatives to the traditional four-year college degree. These options help candidates start teaching sooner and reduce overall costs:

Alternative Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs): Programs like iteachTN enable individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any subject to earn certification without pursuing another full degree. With an initial $250 enrollment fee and lower program costs, candidates can begin teaching within weeks while completing required coursework online and in-class.
Residency-Based Licensure Programs: Teach901 offers residency opportunities where participants teach in local classrooms as part of a cohort while working toward licensure. These programs typically last about a year and often include options to earn a master’s degree at a discounted rate. Importantly, participants receive a salary during this time, helping offset tuition and fees.
Non-Degree Licensure Programs: Relay Graduate School of Education provides a licensure-only pathway designed for career changers or current school employees. This focused program covers essential coursework and practical experience needed for certification, making it a more affordable alternative to full master’s or bachelor’s degrees.

Other Things You Should Know About the Cheapest Teaching Credential Programs in Memphis, TN

Is it expensive to secure teaching credentials in Memphis, TN?

No, securing teaching credentials in Memphis, TN is generally not expensive compared to many other states. Tennessee offers streamlined alternative certification programs and affordable state-sponsored pathways that reduce both time and cost for prospective teachers. These programs often waive traditional tuition fees and provide financial support through grants or employer partnerships, making certification more accessible.

Additionally, Memphis benefits from local universities and community colleges offering cost-effective educator preparation courses. By focusing on these practical, state-approved routes, candidates can minimize expenses while meeting all necessary certification requirements efficiently.

Do you need a teaching credential to teach in Memphis, TN?

Yes, you need a teaching credential to teach in Memphis, TN. The Tennessee Department of Education requires all public school teachers to hold a valid teaching license. This credential ensures that educators meet state standards for subject knowledge and classroom readiness.

Licensure is crucial because it verifies your qualifications and grants you legal authorization to teach. It also enhances job prospects and salary potential in Memphis schools. To begin, complete an approved teacher preparation program, pass required exams, and apply through the Tennessee Educator Licensure System for certification.

Can a foreigner get a teaching license in Memphis, TN?

Yes, a foreigner can obtain a teaching license in Memphis, TN. The process involves having foreign transcripts evaluated for U.S. equivalency, completing a teacher preparation program, or proving equivalent experience, and passing the required Praxis exams. Applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency if necessary. Once these requirements are met, you can apply for licensure through the Tennessee Department of Education, which governs all local education standards in Memphis.

Is there teaching license reciprocity in Memphis, TN?

Yes, Memphis, TN recognizes teaching license reciprocity through the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, allowing educators licensed in other states to apply for Tennessee licensure. However, reciprocity does not guarantee automatic licensure; applicants must meet Tennessee's specific requirements. This includes submitting official transcripts, providing a recommendation from an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP), and potentially passing state-specific exams such as the Praxis.

Additionally, applicants may need to demonstrate English proficiency if applicable. Alternative pathways, like Tennessee’s alternative certification programs, may offer more affordable and flexible routes for educators transitioning from other careers.

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