How to Become a Teacher Online in Wisconsin for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many aspiring teachers in Wisconsin face uncertainty about meeting certification requirements for online teaching roles. Currently, Wisconsin’s demand for qualified educators grows steadily, with a 7% projected increase in teacher employment over the next decade. This trend makes online teaching a promising career path in the state.

This article, crafted by experts in career planning, offers clear, practical steps on certification, licensure, and effective preparation to help readers navigate their online teaching careers confidently and efficiently.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Teacher Online in Wisconsin

• To become an online teacher in Wisconsin, you need a bachelor’s degree, completion of a DPI-approved teacher preparation program, student teaching experience, and passing the required Praxis exams.
• Online teachers in Wisconsin earn around $47,025 per year on average, with top earners reaching $64,093, well below the national teacher salary average.
• Continuously renew your license and pursue professional development to stay current with online education trends.

Table of Contents

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

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

To become an online teacher in Wisconsin, candidates must fulfill specific educational and licensure requirements set by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI). Below are the minimum requirements for becoming an online teacher in Wisconsin:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. This is the foundational academic requirement, and many fulfill it through an online college for teaching to accommodate flexible learning schedules and career preparation.
• Wisconsin-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Completion of a DPI-approved educator preparation program (EPP) is required. Some programs offer online formats for added flexibility.
• Student Teaching or Practicum: A supervised teaching experience is mandatory. This requirement may be completed through virtual or in-person placements, depending on the EPP.
• Required Examinations: Applicants must pass the Praxis Core tests and any relevant Praxis II subject assessments for their intended teaching field.
• Criminal Background Check: A fingerprint-based background check and a professional conduct questionnaire must be completed as part of the licensure process.
• Online Application Submission: Licensure is requested through the Wisconsin Educator Licensing Online (ELO) system. Processing time varies by applicant.
• Alternative Licensing Pathways: Tier I licenses are available for individuals transitioning into teaching while completing formal certification requirements.

What skills are essential for success as a teacher online?

Teaching in an online environment requires more than just subject expertise. To succeed, educators must develop a specific set of skills tailored to virtual instruction. Here are the essential skills for success as an online teacher:

1. Proficiency in Online Course Design and Instructional Technology

Online teaching presents unique challenges that require specific abilities. From managing digital platforms to keeping students engaged remotely, success depends on a well-rounded skill set. Here are the essential skills for online teaching success:

2. Understanding and Adapting to Online Learners’ Needs

Online learners vary in background, motivation, and learning style. Teachers must assess student diversity and apply adaptive teaching strategies to promote engagement and achievement. Programs offered by the University of Wisconsin focus on equipping educators with methods for personalizing instruction in a remote environment.

3. Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Clear and consistent communication is essential in virtual teaching. Wisconsin educators are encouraged to develop skills in delivering concise instructions, offering timely feedback, and engaging families. Effective communication builds trust and fosters a supportive, collaborative online classroom culture.

4. Course Management and Organizational Efficiency

Successful online teachers must balance lesson planning, grading, administrative responsibilities, and student outreach. Strong time management and the use of planning tools help educators remain organized and responsive. These competencies are often refined through practical experiences during student teaching.

5. Commitment to Professional Development and Collaboration

Continual learning is vital in an evolving digital education landscape. Teachers should participate in statewide initiatives like the Wisconsin Online Collaboratives to stay current with pedagogical trends. Collaborative learning among peers strengthens professional practice and enhances instructional effectiveness.

6. Certification Compliance and Subject Mastery

Educators in Wisconsin must complete accredited teacher preparation programs and pass the Praxis exams to obtain licensure. Additional training in emerging subjects, such as computational thinking and artificial intelligence, supports continued compliance and instructional relevance.

7. Creativity and Instructional Innovation

Incorporating innovative practices, such as maker culture and project-based learning, encourages deeper engagement in virtual classrooms. Wisconsin educators are encouraged to explore professional development opportunities that emphasize creativity and forward-thinking instructional strategies to enrich the online learning experience.

What is the average salary of online teachers in Wisconsin?

Online teachers in Wisconsin earn an average annual salary of approximately $47,025, with a general range spanning from $33,800 at the 25th percentile to $57,500 at the 75th percentile. Top earners may make as much as $64,093 per year. This salary variation reflects the influence of factors such as subject area, teaching credentials, and years of experience.

Educators who invest in targeted professional development, particularly in high-demand areas like STEM or Advanced Placement, can position themselves for higher compensation within the state's online teaching sector.

Despite this potential, Wisconsin ranks at the bottom nationally for online teacher pay, with salaries falling well below the U.S. average starting salary of $52,451 and the national classroom teacher average of $78,256. This discrepancy underscores the importance of aligning salary expectations with long-term goals.

Pursuing advanced degrees, such as an online doctorate in higher education, can lead to some of the highest paying jobs in education, including roles in administration, curriculum development, and virtual program leadership.

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

Wisconsin’s online teacher preparation programs are designed to offer flexibility while meeting rigorous licensure standards. These programs combine virtual coursework with required in-person teaching practice to ensure candidates are well-equipped for classroom roles.

Below are the core components of how these programs and experiences typically operate:

• Enrollment in DPI-Approved Online Programs: Candidates begin by enrolling in online programs approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, such as those offered by Concordia University Wisconsin or Educate-WI.
• Completion of Online Coursework: Coursework is completed virtually, often with flexible start dates and self-paced progress, accommodating a wide range of schedules.
• Certification Pathways for Degree Holders: Individuals with a bachelor’s degree may pursue expedited certification programs, including those that waive edTPA requirements, such as the American Board’s pathway.
• In-Person Student Teaching Placement: Programs arrange classroom placements in local schools, allowing candidates to gain direct teaching experience under professional supervision.
• Fulfillment of Clinical Hours: Student teaching involves completing state-mandated clinical hours with licensed educators to develop essential teaching competencies.
• Participation in Mentorship or Live Sessions: Some programs offer optional mentorship or synchronous sessions for additional guidance and support.
• Demonstration of Teaching Proficiency: Candidates must show mastery in both coursework and instructional practice before progressing or graduating.

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

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

• Licensure Application: Candidates must apply for a Provisional Educator License using the Educator Licensing Online (ELO) system, which is valid for three years.
• Examinations: Applicants must pass all required educator exams. If applying for multiple subject areas, original score reports must be uploaded.
• Reading and Language Arts Verification: Starting July 1, 2025, proof of preparation to teach reading and language arts will be required via the PI-1626 form if completed before that date.
• Background Checks: Applicants must answer conduct and competency questions. Fingerprinting may be required for those with out-of-state residence or criminal records.
• License Renewal: After three years and six semesters of teaching, educators may apply for a Lifetime Educator License.
• No Separate Online License: There is no special license for online teaching; the same process applies to all modalities.
• Processing Time: Processing takes 6–8 weeks for in-state applicants and 12–16 weeks for out-of-state candidates.

What is the job outlook for online teachers in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s online teaching market remains relatively limited but shows growth potential, particularly in targeted areas such as rural education and higher education institutions. While the number of available positions currently trails national trends, strategic preparation can enhance access to jobs with education background and improve long-term employment prospects.

Below are the key factors influencing the job outlook for online teachers in Wisconsin:

• Lower Average Pay: Online teachers in Wisconsin earn around $24.39 per hour, placing the state at the bottom nationally in salary rankings for this field.
• Modest Job Growth: Secondary teaching roles in Wisconsin are projected to grow by about 5% through 2032, slightly above the national average for K–12 but below the 12% growth expected for postsecondary online instructors.
• Rural Opportunities: Rural districts are exploring online instruction to address teacher shortages, offering a gradual but important area for job expansion.
• Value of Specialized Skills: Candidates with digital instruction certifications or instructional design experience are more competitive, particularly in postsecondary or hybrid education settings.

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

Online teachers in Wisconsin navigate a range of pressures that affect their sense of security, financial well-being, and ability to stay in the profession long-term. These challenges are tied to broader state-level trends in education and workforce retention.

Below are the main challenges that impact online educators in Wisconsin:

• High Turnover Rates: Nearly 40% of new teachers exit the profession or leave the state within six years, weakening team continuity and support networks for online educators.
• Decreased Compensation: A 19% decline in real wages over the past decade has made teaching less financially sustainable, particularly for online instructors managing additional technology costs.
• Shortages in Specialized Areas: Special education roles face high attrition, with less than half of new special education teachers remaining after seven years, increasing pressure on online teachers to fill demanding gaps.
• Inconsistent Job Stability: Frequent changes in assignments, platforms, and policies create uncertainty and reduce the institutional support online teachers need to thrive.
• Work-Life Imbalance: Online instruction often requires extended availability, making it difficult for educators to set boundaries and protect their time outside of work.

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

Wisconsin requires online teachers to fulfill continuing education and license renewal obligations to maintain their credentials. These measures support ongoing growth and ensure quality instruction in digital learning environments.

Below are the key requirements online educators must follow:

• Professional Development Plan (PDP): Most teachers must complete and verify a PDP to demonstrate ongoing professional growth aligned with state standards.
• Credit and Coursework Options: Continuing education can include graduate-level coursework or approved professional development activities, often available online.
• License Renewal Timeline: The Professional Educator License must be renewed every five years through Wisconsin’s Educator Licensing Online (ELO) system.
• Lifetime License Holders: Educators with a Lifetime Educator License are exempt from credit renewal but must maintain a current background check every five years.
• District-Specific Training: Some school districts may impose additional professional development requirements, so teachers should follow local guidelines.

For those interested in advancing their credentials, exploring the best online EdD programs can be a practical next step to enhance teaching skills and career prospects.

What strategies can online teachers in Wisconsin use to assess and enhance virtual student performance?

Effective online teaching demands continuous evaluation of student engagement and learning outcomes. Educators can utilize digital analytics and targeted formative assessments to pinpoint learning gaps and refine their instructional methods. Implementing adaptive feedback systems and aligning assessments closely with learning objectives helps promote student accountability and personalized growth. Additionally, integrating specialized digital tools that monitor real-time progress supports data-driven decision-making, ensuring instructional strategies remain responsive to student needs. For insights into assessment practices at early education levels, review how to become a kindergarten teacher in Wisconsin.

What are the career advancement opportunities for online teachers in Wisconsin?

Online teaching in Wisconsin offers a multitude of pathways for professional growth beyond the classroom. Experienced educators can enhance their profiles by pursuing advanced certifications, subject-specific endorsements, and leadership roles in curriculum development or academic administration. Participating in specialized training programs and statewide collaboratives further equips teachers for roles such as instructional coordinators or digital education consultants. Additionally, exploring the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Wisconsin can facilitate a more cost-effective entry into advanced career opportunities, enabling professionals to broaden their influence in virtual education settings.

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

It is possible to become an online teacher in Wisconsin without earning a traditional education degree. The state supports alternative certification routes that allow individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field to enter the teaching profession, particularly in virtual settings.

Below are the key steps to follow:

• Hold a Bachelor’s Degree: Your degree must be from a regionally accredited institution, but it does not need to be in education. Some candidates choose the easiest teaching degree path by selecting programs with flexible coursework, fewer prerequisites, or online formats to streamline their entry into the profession.
• Complete the ABCTE Certification Program: The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) is an online, self-paced option that includes content-area exams.
• Submit an Out-of-State License Application (Form 1025): Even as a Wisconsin resident, you will use this form to apply after completing the ABCTE program.
• Complete Background Checks: Fingerprinting and other background clearances are required by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).
• Start with a Tier I License if Needed: A one-year renewable license may be issued while you complete the full certification.
• Consider Additional Online Teaching Training: Programs like the University of Wisconsin-Stout’s online certificate in Blended and Online Teaching can boost your skills for virtual classrooms.

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

Wisconsin’s online education system is evolving in response to changing learner needs and statewide goals. With an emphasis on access, flexibility, and quality, the state is reshaping how students engage with virtual instruction across all age groups.

Below are the current trends shaping online teaching and education in Wisconsin:

• Expansion of Online Programs for Adult Learners: The University of Wisconsin System plans to double online enrollment by 2025, introducing new programs tailored to working adults and nontraditional students.
• Improved Access and Quality in K–12 Virtual Schools: With 44 public virtual schools now operating, Wisconsin is enhancing online options. Schools like Bridges Virtual Academy receive high ratings for teacher support and instructional quality.
• Rising Popularity of Blended Learning Models: While online learning is growing, many students prefer hybrid formats. Around 75% favor programs that combine digital instruction with in-person elements like labs or group work.
• Strong Satisfaction with Online Learning Experiences: Students in Wisconsin report high satisfaction with online programs, citing their flexibility and affordability, especially important for working professionals.
• Strategic Investment in Digital Infrastructure: Schools and universities are improving technology access to support equitable learning outcomes, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
• Focus on Workforce-Aligned Curriculum: Online programs are increasingly designed with input from local industries, helping ensure that course offerings meet regional workforce demands.

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

After obtaining the necessary education and a standard Wisconsin teaching license, aspiring online teachers should take targeted steps to enhance their qualifications and readiness for virtual teaching roles. The following practical actions will help candidates effectively transition into Wisconsin’s growing online education environment.

1. Earn an Online Teaching Certificate: Obtain additional online teaching credentials, such as the Blended and Online Teaching & Training Certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. It offers training in digital tools, online assessment strategies, and course design, typically requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA in prerequisites.
2. Expand Licensure Areas: Update your license to cover additional subject areas by passing relevant content exams (Praxis, ACTFL, Pearson) and submitting official score reports through the Educator Licensing Online (ELO) system. Note that early childhood education applicants must verify science-based reading and language arts training using form PI-1626 for submissions after July 1, 2025.
3. Strengthen Technical and Pedagogical Skills: Develop strong technical and pedagogical skills by gaining proficiency with digital platforms, learning management systems, and virtual assessment tools. These are essential for effective online instruction and emphasized in specialized certificate programs.
4. Research and Apply Strategically: Research and apply to Wisconsin’s approved online schools and districts, leveraging resources from the Department of Public Instruction to identify employers actively recruiting certified online teachers.
5. Monitor Licensure Updates: Stay updated on evolving licensure requirements, particularly changes related to reading and language arts certification. Regularly consult official DPI communications to maintain compliance and eligibility.

What do online teachers in Wisconsin say about their careers?

• I never thought teaching online in Wisconsin would be this rewarding. At first, I missed the classroom energy, but now I see how powerful virtual learning can be when it's done right. I get to personalize lessons more than I ever could in person, and I’ve seen students grow in confidence because they feel more comfortable participating. Ceejay
• What I love most about teaching online in Wisconsin is the flexibility it gives both me and my students. I work with learners from all over the state, including small towns where access to advanced courses might be limited. Being part of that solution is something I’m proud of. Joseph
• As an online teacher in Wisconsin, I’ve found a rhythm that works for both my personal and professional life. I’ve been able to focus more on student engagement and mental health, which is incredibly important in this format. Some students who struggled in traditional classrooms are thriving online, and seeing that progress firsthand reminds me why I chose this path. Anne

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

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

Yes, online teachers in Wisconsin may specialize in specific subjects or student groups. Many virtual teaching roles focus on areas such as mathematics, science, or language arts, while others support students in special education, gifted programs, or English language learning. Specialization generally requires subject-specific certifications or endorsements in compliance with state licensing rules.

This focused approach enhances teaching effectiveness and improves employment prospects by allowing educators to address the unique needs of targeted student populations.

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

Online educators in Wisconsin may qualify for various financial support programs. The Wisconsin Loan Assistance Program for Teachers (WLAP) offers loan repayment to those working in high-need areas. Additionally, the federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness program provides up to $17,500 in loan relief for eligible teachers serving five consecutive years.

Some districts also offer scholarships or tuition reimbursement. These resources help alleviate financial burdens, but applicants should carefully review eligibility criteria and deadlines before applying.

Are there teaching opportunities for international online educators in Wisconsin?

Yes, international educators may find online teaching opportunities in Wisconsin. Many virtual schools and platforms accept qualified teachers from abroad, especially for roles in language instruction or specialized subjects. While public school positions generally require Wisconsin licensure, private and charter institutions often maintain more flexible criteria. Roles may include synchronous or asynchronous instruction.

Interested educators should confirm specific employer requirements and ensure compliance with certification standards and applicable immigration or work authorization regulations.

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

Teaching adult learners in Wisconsin typically requires a valid teaching license with appropriate endorsements in adult education or relevant subject areas. Candidates must complete an approved educator preparation program and pass state assessments. Experience with adult populations or nontraditional classrooms is advantageous.

Ongoing professional development in adult learning strategies is also encouraged. Requirements may vary by institution, so applicants should consult local education providers or districts to confirm qualifications before pursuing roles in these settings.

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