How to Become a Teacher Online in Tennessee for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many aspiring educators in Tennessee face challenges when navigating the state’s certification process and requirements for online teaching. With more than 7,000 teaching vacancies statewide, the demand for qualified online instructors continues to rise. A career in online teaching offers both flexibility and the opportunity to serve Tennessee’s expanding virtual education landscape.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, will outline the specific certification requirements and pathways unique to Tennessee. It will guide readers through the practical steps necessary to launch a successful online teaching career for 2025, ensuring a clear and informed path forward.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Teacher Online in Tennessee

• Online teachers in Tennessee must hold a bachelor’s degree, complete a state-approved educator preparation program, and finish a supervised student teaching practicum.
• The average annual salary for online teachers in Tennessee is about $42,285, with some roles in high-demand regions or subjects offering higher pay.
• Educators must be licensed through TNCompass, pass the required Praxis exams, complete background checks, and earn professional development points for renewal every five years.

Table of Contents

1. What are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in Tennessee?
2. What skills are essential for success as a teacher online?
3. What is the average salary of online teachers in Tennessee?
4. How do online teacher preparation programs and student teaching experiences work in Tennessee?
5. What are the licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in Tennessee?
6. What is the job outlook for online teachers in Tennessee?
7. What are the main challenges that online teachers face in Tennessee?
8. Are there continuing education or license renewal requirements for online teachers in Tennessee?
9. How can you access professional support networks as an online teacher in Tennessee?
10. How can you secure an affordable teaching credential in Tennessee?
11. Can you become an online teacher without a traditional education degree in Tennessee?
12. What are the current trends in online teaching and education in Tennessee?
13. What steps should you take to start your online teaching career in Tennessee?
14. Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Teacher Online in Tennessee

What are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in Tennessee?

To become an online teacher in Tennessee, educators must meet a series of academic, experiential, and licensure-based requirements. Below are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in Tennessee:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited Institution: A four-year degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university is the foundational requirement for all teaching positions.
• Completion of a State-Approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP): Candidates must complete a Tennessee-approved EPP, which includes coursework in instructional methods and classroom management. Many EPPs now offer online or hybrid options.
• Student Teaching Practicum: A supervised teaching placement is mandatory. While usually conducted in person, some districts may offer virtual or blended practicum experiences.
• Passing Required State Assessments: Applicants must pass the Praxis Subject Exams. For certain licensure areas—such as early grades—passing the Tennessee Early Literacy Assessment (TELA) may also be required.
• Fingerprint-Based Background Check: A criminal background check, including fingerprinting at the state and federal levels, is required for all prospective educators.
• Online Application via TNCompass: All licensure applications are submitted through the TNCompass online system managed by the Tennessee Department of Education.
• Additional Endorsements for Specialized Roles: Some virtual teaching positions, like Algebra I, may require subject-specific endorsements beyond standard certification.

For those exploring options, exploring the best bachelors in education online can provide valuable flexibility while meeting Tennessee’s minimum education requirements for teachers in the state.

What skills are essential for success as a teacher online?

Online teaching in Tennessee demands more than content knowledge, it requires a comprehensive set of skills tailored to virtual instruction, student engagement, and inclusive learning. Here are the essential skills for success:

1. Digital Literacy and Technical Proficiency

Mastery of digital tools is fundamental for effective online teaching in Tennessee. Teachers must navigate learning management systems, ensure online safety, and utilize communication platforms to support instruction. This is especially critical in rural areas, where maximizing limited digital access is essential to maintaining student connection and engagement.

2. Communication Skills

Effective virtual instruction relies on clear, empathetic communication. Educators must craft precise instructions, respond promptly to inquiries, and engage in meaningful dialogue through video calls and messaging platforms. These practices help create a supportive online environment where students and families feel respected and valued.

3. Classroom Management in a Virtual Environment

Maintaining a productive online learning space requires creative classroom management strategies. Tennessee educators must set clear expectations, monitor engagement through digital tools, and foster an inclusive atmosphere that promotes respect, collaboration, and consistent participation.

4. Creativity and Innovation

Engaging students virtually demands innovative lesson design. By incorporating interactive activities, project-based learning, and multimedia elements, teachers can stimulate interest and accommodate a wide range of learning styles, transforming the virtual classroom into a dynamic and enriching educational experience.

5. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Online educators must analyze digital assessments, identify learning gaps, and swiftly implement targeted interventions. Reflective practice and data-informed decision-making enable teachers to adapt instruction and support continuous academic growth for all learners.

6. Leadership and Professionalism

Strong leadership and ethical conduct are cornerstones of online teaching. Tennessee educators are expected to guide discussions, build virtual communities, and model professionalism through timely communication and a commitment to ongoing improvement.

7. Cultural Competence and Inclusivity

Serving Tennessee’s diverse student population requires cultural awareness and inclusive teaching practices. Training in universal design and cultural responsiveness enables educators to deliver equitable instruction that respects and reflects the experiences of all learners.

8. Commitment to Professional Development

Continual growth is essential in the rapidly evolving world of online education. Tennessee supports educators through professional development opportunities that build skills in emerging technologies, instructional strategies, and state teaching standards, ensuring excellence in virtual teaching practices.

What is the average salary of online teachers in Tennessee?

Online teachers in Tennessee earn an average annual salary of approximately $42,285, or about $20.33 per hour. Salaries span a wide range, from $30,400 at the 25th percentile to $51,700 at the 75th percentile, with localized variations. For example, online elementary teachers in areas like Crossville may earn as much as $60,705 annually, underscoring the influence of regional funding and subject demand on pay.

Despite this variability, online teaching salaries in Tennessee generally lag behind those of traditional classroom educators, who typically earn between $50,048 and $55,369 per year, often with more comprehensive benefits. The median salary for online teachers suggests that many fall below the $30,400 mark, particularly in entry-level or part-time roles.

For those looking to advance their qualifications, exploring a list of the best online education degree programs could be a strategic move to improve prospects and earnings.

How do online teacher preparation programs and student teaching experiences work in Tennessee?

Tennessee’s online teacher preparation programs are designed to be flexible and accessible while maintaining strong in-person requirements. Below are the key components of how these programs and student teaching operate in Tennessee:

• Asynchronous Online Coursework: Most academic instruction is delivered online, allowing candidates to study at their own pace while managing personal and professional responsibilities.
• Mandatory In-Person Clinical Supervision: Teaching practice must be observed and guided by certified mentors or university faculty in local school settings.
• Alternative Certification Pathways: Programs like iteach Tennessee offer fast-track options, allowing candidates to begin teaching after eight weeks of online training with full-time, paid classroom roles and continuous support.
• Grow Your Own and Apprenticeship Models: These state-endorsed initiatives combine fully virtual coursework with structured, job-embedded teaching experiences in partnering schools.
• Dedicated Mentorship and Support: Candidates receive ongoing feedback from both university instructors and experienced classroom teachers throughout their preparation.
• Supervised Clinical Practice Requirement: Whether through internships, student teaching, or residencies, all candidates must demonstrate competency in real classroom environments.
• Compliance with State Licensure Standards: Clinical experiences are closely aligned with Tennessee’s educator preparation standards to ensure high-quality training and licensure eligibility.

What are the licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in Tennessee?

Online teachers in Tennessee must meet the same licensure standards as those teaching in physical classrooms. Below are the key licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in Tennessee:

• State Licensure: Educators must hold a valid Tennessee teaching license for the subject and grade level they teach. There is no separate license for online instruction.
• Licensing Pathways: Most teachers begin with a Practitioner License, valid for three years and renewable once. They may then advance to a Professional License after three years of effective teaching.
• Exams and Endorsements: Passing relevant Praxis exams is required. For early childhood, elementary, ESL, or special education, teachers must comply with the Tennessee Literacy Success Act (TLSA), including training or a passing TELA score of 80% or higher.
• Background Checks: Fingerprint-based state and federal background checks are mandatory during the application process.
• Continuing Education and Renewal: Practitioner License renewal requires 60 professional development points (PDPs) or two years of qualifying experience. Other licenses need 30 PDPs or approved training.
• TLSA Compliance: Ongoing literacy training or testing is required for endorsements impacted by TLSA regulations.
• Application System: All licensing actions are processed through the TNCompass online portal.

For those curious about the differences in educator preparation programs in Tennessee, exploring the differences between education degrees can offer valuable insight into the paths leading to licensure and teaching success.

What is the job outlook for online teachers in Tennessee?

Tennessee’s online teaching market reflects a cautious but evolving landscape. While national demand for virtual educators is growing steadily, the state currently offers fewer openings and lower compensation than many others.

Below are the key factors shaping the job outlook for online teachers in Tennessee:

• Lower Average Pay: Online teachers in Tennessee earn about $27 per hour, placing the state near the bottom nationally in terms of compensation for remote educators.
• Limited Local Openings: Online teaching roles remain modest in number, though statewide efforts to address teacher shortages could support future expansion.
• National Growth Projection: Postsecondary online teaching roles are projected to grow by 12% nationally through 2030, indicating broader trends Tennessee may eventually follow.
• State Education Initiatives: Tennessee is actively working to address teacher shortages, which may lead to increased investment in virtual platforms and digital instruction.

What are the main challenges that online teachers face in Tennessee?

Online teachers in Tennessee face a demanding environment shaped by educator shortages, digital inequities, and the evolving nature of virtual instruction. Below are the main challenges affecting online educators in Tennessee:

• Rural Teacher Shortages: Widespread vacancies, especially in rural districts, place added pressure on existing online teachers to cover multiple roles or subjects.
• Qualification and Training Gaps: Many educators lack formal training in online teaching methods, requiring them to build digital instructional skills while actively teaching.
• Technology and Access Disparities: Uneven internet access and limited device availability force teachers to troubleshoot tech issues while maintaining student engagement.
• Increased Workload and Burnout: Planning, grading, and offering individualized support online often spill into personal time, increasing stress and fatigue.
• Professional Isolation: Virtual roles limit opportunities for peer collaboration and mentorship, making it harder to share strategies and grow professionally.

Exploring pathways like the online education masters can deepen skills and better navigate the evolving demands of online instruction in Tennessee.

Are there continuing education or license renewal requirements for online teachers in Tennessee?

Online teachers in Tennessee must complete continuing education requirements to renew their teaching licenses. These standards are consistent with those for classroom-based educators and promote professional development across all teaching environments.

Below are the key requirements educators must meet:

• License Types and PDP Requirements: A practitioner license requires 30 Professional Development Points (PDPs), while a professional license requires 60 PDPs or two years of teaching experience.
• Approved Learning Opportunities: PDPs can be earned through graduate-level courses, district-led workshops, or state-approved online training programs.
• Flexible Options for Educators: The system allows teachers to choose professional learning activities that align with their instructional goals and schedules.
• Review and Submission Process: Employed teachers submit PDPs through their district. Others submit directly to the Tennessee Department of Education.
• Renewal Cycle: Educators renew their licenses every five years to remain in good standing and avoid disruptions in teaching eligibility.

How can you access professional support networks as an online teacher in Tennessee?

Leveraging professional support networks is vital for maintaining expertise and fostering career growth. In Tennessee, various associations and online communities provide platforms for mentorship, best practice exchanges, and insights into evolving educational policies. These networks offer targeted resources on digital pedagogy, innovative classroom management, and ongoing professional development, all of which are essential for staying competitive in a dynamic online environment. Engaging with such groups can also open doors to specialized training opportunities, including guidance on integrating early childhood methodologies—explore how to become a kindergarten teacher in Tennessee for a deeper dive into niche instructional strategies.

How can you secure an affordable teaching credential in Tennessee?

Tennessee offers cost-effective pathways for aspiring online educators to meet certification requirements without incurring prohibitive expenses. By leveraging alternative licensure programs, candidates can benefit from integrated financial aid options and tuition assistance available through state-approved resources. For example, research shows that utilizing the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Tennessee can significantly reduce upfront costs. Evaluating program accreditation, comparing state-supported initiatives, and performing a detailed cost-benefit analysis are key steps in maximizing savings while securing a credential that meets Tennessee’s rigorous standards.

Can you become an online teacher without a traditional education degree in Tennessee?

Tennessee offers pathways for individuals without a traditional education degree to become online teachers through alternative licensure options. Below are the main options and requirements:

• Hold a Bachelor’s Degree or Industry Certification: A bachelor’s degree is required for most licensure paths, while CTE roles may accept industry credentials and field experience. Exploring career paths with online masters degree in education can be a smart move. 
• Enroll in an Alternative Licensure Program: These state-approved programs allow you to teach while completing coursework, often available online.
• Pursue Occupational Licensure (for CTE): This pathway is designed for professionals with hands-on experience in technical fields. It may begin with a high school diploma and verified work history.
• Pass Required State Exams: All licensure routes require passing Praxis exams and any subject-specific assessments.
• Submit Through TNCompass: All documentation, including transcripts and certifications, must be submitted through the state’s licensure portal.
• Meet Literacy Requirements if Applicable: Teachers in early literacy roles must meet the new training or assessment standards under the Tennessee Literacy Success Act.

What are the current trends in online teaching and education in Tennessee?

Tennessee is embracing the evolution of online education, with expanding access, career-focused learning, and quality assurance at the forefront. Below are the current trends shaping online teaching and education in Tennessee:

• Rising Enrollment and Mainstream Acceptance: Public virtual school enrollment jumped from 10,000 to over 17,000 during the pandemic. More than 12,000 K–12 students continue to learn online, reflecting sustained interest and growing acceptance of virtual education.
• Career-Focused and Flexible Learning Paths: Online programs offer flexible options for adult learners seeking career advancement. Many Tennesseans are using e-learning to upskill, reskill, or complete degrees at their own pace, aligning with global workforce trends.
• Quality, Equity, and Regulatory Oversight: As online offerings expand, state and federal bodies are increasing oversight to ensure academic quality and accessibility. Universities are also improving online degree programs to meet rigorous standards.
• Improvements in Academic Outcomes: Gains in student achievement, such as 4th-grade reading and 8th-grade math, highlight how effective online instruction can support learning goals, especially when equity and support systems are prioritized.

What steps should you take to start your online teaching career in Tennessee?

Entering the field of online teaching in Tennessee requires clear licensure, subject expertise, and strong digital readiness. With targeted preparation, you can successfully navigate the state’s growing virtual education environment.

Below are the key steps to get started:

• Confirm Your Licensure and Endorsements: Ensure your Tennessee license is current and includes the correct endorsements. For areas impacted by the Tennessee Literacy Success Act, complete required literacy training or pass the TELA with at least 80%.
• Register and Maintain Your TNCompass Profile: Create or update your TNCompass account. The state’s official portal for managing licensure, submitting documents, and tracking certifications.
• Secure Industry Certifications if Applicable: If teaching Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses, upload relevant industry certifications to TNCompass to meet endorsement requirements.
• Search for Online Teaching Opportunities: Explore roles in public districts, charter networks, and virtual school programs. Online positions are growing, particularly in STEM, special education, and literacy support.
• Stay Compliant with State Requirements: Complete background checks and keep up with renewal timelines. Licensure updates and fingerprinting are essential for continued eligibility.
• Engage in Professional Development: Participate in online training sessions and modules to enhance your digital teaching skills and stay aligned with Tennessee’s evolving standards.

What do online teachers in Tennessee say about their careers?

• Teaching online in Tennessee has given me the chance to reach students from Appalachian towns to busy urban neighborhoods. The flexibility helps families manage different needs, and I’ve seen how much it boosts student confidence. With strong community support and access to training, I feel valued and empowered in my role. —Danielle
• What I enjoy most about online teaching in Tennessee is the opportunity to customize learning for each student. I’ve worked with kids who need extra time or a different pace, and this format makes that possible. The state’s push for education access keeps me hopeful and committed to this work. —Isaac
• Being an online teacher here in Tennessee means I can support students no matter where they live or what challenges they face. I’ve learned to use digital tools in creative ways, and the professional growth has been amazing. It’s a meaningful job that gives me purpose every day. —Leslie

Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Teacher Online in Tennessee

Can I specialize in a particular subject or student group as an online teacher in Tennessee?

Yes, online teachers in Tennessee may specialize in specific academic subjects or student populations. Common areas include mathematics, science, language arts, and grade-specific instruction, such as elementary, middle, or high school levels. Educators may also work with adult learners or students requiring special education services. Specialization typically requires subject-specific certification or endorsements aligned with the Tennessee Department of Education standards. 

What financial assistance or loan forgiveness programs are available for online teachers in Tennessee?

Online educators in Tennessee have access to multiple financial aid and loan forgiveness programs. The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship and HOPE Grant offer tuition assistance for eligible students preparing for teaching careers.

The Tennessee Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program provides loan repayment support for educators serving in high-need schools or subjects. Additionally, the federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) may apply to online teachers employed by qualifying institutions. 

Are there teaching opportunities for international online educators in Tennessee?

Yes, international educators may pursue online teaching opportunities in Tennessee. Many virtual schools and educational platforms accept qualified candidates from outside the U.S., provided they meet the state's certification and employment requirements.

International applicants typically need to have their credentials evaluated and may be required to complete additional coursework or licensure steps. Proficiency in English and familiarity with Tennessee’s curriculum standards are essential. 

What are the requirements for teaching adult learners or in nontraditional settings in Tennessee?

Teaching adult learners in Tennessee requires a valid state teaching license and, in many cases, additional endorsements in adult education or career and technical education (CTE). Educators must demonstrate understanding of adult learning principles and often need prior experience or specialized training.

Background checks and ongoing professional development are required for licensure maintenance. Familiarity with online teaching tools and flexible instructional strategies is critical for success in nontraditional or hybrid educational settings. 

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