Secondary Teaching Certification: 2025 Requirements, Career Paths, Salaries

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The path to secondary teaching certification can be complex, with varying requirements, costs, and career opportunities across states. However, securing this certification is a crucial step for anyone looking to teach at the middle or high school level, as it ensures educators have the subject knowledge, classroom management skills, and legal qualifications to effectively guide students.

With over 1.1 million high school teaching jobs in 2023 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023), the demand for qualified educators remains strong, making certification not only a requirement but also a valuable credential that can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries.

In this guide, I will break down everything you need to know—from education and testing requirements to salaries and job outlook—so you can confidently pursue a teaching career for 2025.

What are the benefits of getting a secondary teaching certification?

Secondary teachers have an annual median salary of $65,130 in May 2023, higher than the median wage for other professions (BLS, 2023).
Teaching positions offer stability, with most teachers working during school hours and having summers off, providing a balanced work-life schedule.
Most states offer pension plans and healthcare benefits exclusively to certified teachers. Data from BLS shows that over 83% of certified teachers had access to medical benefits in 2024.
Teachers gain access to exclusive professional organizations, such as the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). These provide mentorship, resources, and professional development programs.

What is secondary teacher certification?
How does a secondary teaching certification differ from a teaching license?
What is the difference between a secondary teaching certification and a secondary subject endorsement?
What are the requirements for enrolling in secondary teaching certification for 2025?
What courses are included in a secondary teaching certification?
How do secondary teaching license requirements vary by state?
How long does it take to get a secondary teaching certification?
Can pursuing a master's degree boost my secondary teaching career?
How can I prepare for secondary teaching certification exams?
Should I pursue an advanced degree after obtaining secondary teaching certification?
How much does a certificate in secondary teaching cost?
What financial aid options can support my secondary teaching certification journey?
What are the emerging trends in secondary teaching certification?
Should I consider a complementary degree alongside my secondary teaching certification?
Could a Secondary Teaching Certification Open Doors to Interdisciplinary Careers?
What can I do with a secondary teaching certificate?
How much is the salary of those with secondary teaching certification?
What is the job outlook of secondary school teachers?
How can I evaluate the quality and accreditation of secondary teaching certification programs?
Other Things You Need To Know Before Getting A Secondary Teaching Certification

What is secondary teacher certification?

Unlike an early childhood education degree online that focuses on kids ages 3-5, secondary teacher certification is a state-issued credential that qualifies an individual to teach grades 6–12 in public and some private schools.

It verifies that a teacher has met educational, training, and testing requirements, ensuring they have the necessary skills to instruct students effectively in a specific subject area, such as mathematics, science, history, or English.

A certified teacher ensures that students receive quality instruction aligned with state standards. Schools prioritize hiring certified teachers to meet federal and state education policies, maintain accreditation, and provide better student outcomes.

By obtaining a secondary teaching certification, educators secure better job prospects and salaries and help bridge the growing teacher shortage in the US.

Recent data highlights this issue vividly: 53% of public schools reported that they faced a lack of applicants for teaching positions, while 64% struggled to find qualified candidates (National Center for Education Statistics, 2024).

How does a secondary teaching certification differ from a teaching license?

A secondary teaching certification verifies that an educator has met specific academic and training requirements, typically issued upon completing a teacher preparation program and passing required exams.

On the other hand, a teaching license is the official state-issued legal authorization that permits an individual to teach in public schools, often requiring certification as a prerequisite.

A teaching license is required to teach secondary students in public schools in all U.S. states, as it serves as official state authorization to work as an educator. Note that if your goal is to teach at the secondary level but specialize in supporting students with disabilities, you would need to obtain a special education teaching certification. However, private schools have more flexibility and may not require a state-issued teaching license, though many prefer or strongly encourage teachers to have one.

Some private institutions set their requirements, often valuing subject-matter expertise, advanced degrees, or prior teaching experience over formal licensure. For example, those with a political science degree may pursue teaching roles in specialized fields like civics, or even explore careers in public policy and government, instead of traditional K-12 teaching. So, what can you do with a political science degree? Getting a secondary teaching certification is one answer.

What is the difference between a secondary teaching certification and a secondary subject endorsement?

A secondary teaching certification does not automatically allow teachers to instruct in any subject. Instead, teachers must obtain a secondary subject endorsement, which specifies the subject(s) they are qualified to teach.

A secondary subject endorsement is not a standalone certification; it is an addition to a valid teaching certificate, proving that a teacher has met coursework and testing requirements for a particular subject.

While some states allow teachers to obtain multiple endorsements to expand their teaching eligibility, a general secondary teaching certification does not permit teachers to teach any subject of their choice unless they have the proper endorsements.

Students may choose an endorsement based on their previous majors or experience. For example, you may get a Social Studies endorsement after completing an online history degree.

Endorsement areas differ in what they require from candidates. For instance, art teacher requirements in many states include a degree in visual arts or art education, a teaching practicum, and a state certification exam.

The most common endorsements include:

English/Language Arts
Mathematics
Science (General Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science)
Social Studies (History, Government, Geography, Economics)
Foreign Languages (Spanish, French, German, Mandarin, etc.)
Special Education
English as a Second Language (ESL)/Bilingual Education
Career and Technical Education (CTE) (Business, Technology, Health Sciences)
Fine Arts (Music, Art, Theater)
Physical Education and Health

In most states, candidates apply for certification with at least one subject endorsement as part of the initial process. However, teachers can add endorsements later by completing additional coursework and passing subject-specific exams.

According to Data USA (2023), the most common majors held by secondary school teachers in 2022, across all academic degrees, were Education, followed by Business, and English.

What are the requirements for enrolling in secondary teaching certification for 2025?

To enroll in a secondary teaching certification program, candidates typically must meet the following requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree Requirement. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, typically in education or a teachable subject like Mathematics, Science, English, or Social Studies. That means you can enroll in a secondary teaching certification even if you have completed communication, nursing, or a self-paced accounting degree.
Minimum GPA Standards. Many programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0, though some universities may admit students with lower GPAs under conditional acceptance.
Prerequisite Coursework. Candidates may need to complete prerequisite coursework in education and pedagogy, especially if their degree is not related to the education field.
Basic Skills Test Requirement. Most states require passing a basic skills test before enrollment, such as the Praxis Core, California Basic Educational Skills Test™ (CBEST), or Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE).
Criminal Background Check and Fingerprinting. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are mandatory in most states before admission into a teacher preparation program.
Letters of Recommendation. Applicants must often submit two to three letters of recommendation, typically from professors, employers, or mentors who can attest to their teaching potential.
Alternative Certification for Career Changers. For career changers, alternative certification programs allow enrollment without an education degree, provided they meet subject-matter competency requirements.

Since state requirements vary, candidates should verify specific program admission criteria through state education departments or accredited teacher preparation programs. If you prefer to study remotely, look for a list of online schools that offer teaching certification.

What courses are included in a secondary teaching certification?

A secondary teaching certification program includes coursework in education theory, subject-specific instruction, classroom management, and assessment methods. While course requirements vary by state and institution, most programs include the following:

Foundations of Education. Covers education's history, philosophy, and role in society.
Educational Psychology. Examines how students learn, cognitive development, and motivation theories.
Classroom Management. Focuses on behavior management strategies, student engagement, and conflict resolution.
Assessment and Evaluation. Teach how to design, implement, and analyze student assessments.
Teaching Methods and Instructional Strategies. Covers lesson planning, differentiated instruction, and best practices for various learning styles.
Technology in Education. Explores how to integrate digital tools and online learning platforms into teaching.
Special Education and Inclusive Teaching. Provides strategies for teaching students with disabilities and English Language Learners (ELLs).
Subject-Specific Pedagogy. Includes coursework tailored to the teacher’s endorsement area (e.g., Math, Science, English, or Social Studies).

Student Teaching Internship. A full-time, supervised teaching experience in a secondary school setting, typically lasting 12–16 weeks.

How do secondary teaching license requirements vary by state?

While secondary teaching license requirements vary by state, all states follow a structured process to ensure teachers are qualified. According to TEACH.org, the general steps include:

Provide Proof of Education. Candidates must complete a bachelor’s degree, typically in education or a subject area like mathematics, science, or English. To verify this, applicants must submit official transcripts from an accredited institution.
Complete a Teacher Preparation Program. Proof of completion may be required, such as a program completion certificate from an accredited teacher education program.
Complete Student Teaching Experience and Provide Verification. Aspiring teachers must complete a supervised student teaching internship, typically lasting one semester, to gain practical classroom experience. A verification form or letter from the supervising teacher or school administrator is usually required as proof.
Undergo a Background Check and Fingerprinting. All states require fingerprint-based background checks through state and FBI records. Most states also screen candidates against the National Sex Offender Registry, and many review child abuse and neglect databases. Applicants must complete fingerprinting and submit clearance results to the state licensing board.
Submit License Application and Fees. Candidates must complete a state teaching license application, submit all required documents, and pay applicable licensing fees to the state’s Department of Education.

Pass State Licensure Exams. Applicants must demonstrate subject knowledge and teaching competency by passing required state certification exams, such as the Praxis Series or other state-specific tests. They must submit official test scores as part of the application.

While all states require a bachelor’s degree, completion of a teacher preparation program, passing certification exams, and student teaching experience, the specific requirements vary by state in the following ways:

Required Certification Exams. Some states use the Praxis exams, while others require state-specific tests. For example, California requires the CSET and CBEST, Texas mandates the TExES, and Florida requires the FTCE.
Subject-Specific Course Requirements. Some states require additional coursework in certain subjects. For example, teaching certification for math teachers may involve completing advanced coursework in algebra, calculus, or instructional methods tailored to mathematical thinking.
Additional Training in Student Support. New York and Pennsylvania require coursework in bullying prevention, school violence intervention, and child abuse identification, while other states do not.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Requirements. States with large multilingual student populations, such as California, Texas, and Arizona, require coursework in ESL instruction and English Learner strategies.
Student Teaching Duration and Experience. While most states require a semester (12–16 weeks) of student teaching, some, like Massachusetts and Minnesota, require a year-long residency program.
License Reciprocity for Out-of-State Teachers. States like Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada have easier reciprocity agreements, allowing teachers from other states to transfer their licenses with minimal additional coursework. Others, like California and New York, may require additional exams or training before granting full certification.

Although these steps form the foundation for obtaining a secondary teaching license across the U.S., specific details and additional requirements differ by state. For more information on your state’s licensing process, visit your state’s Department of Education website.

How long does it take to get a secondary teaching certification?

The time required to obtain a secondary teaching certification depends on the candidate’s educational background, the certification pathway, and state-specific requirements. In general, the timeline varies based on the following factors:

Standard Secondary Teaching Certification. For candidates who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a teachable subject, certification typically takes 12 to 24 months.
State-Specific Requirements. Some states require additional coursework, exams, or mentorship that may extend the process beyond the standard timeframes.
Alternative Certification Programs. For career changers or individuals with a non-education degree, alternative certification programs allow candidates to teach while completing coursework. These programs generally take 6 to 18 months and often require candidates to pass state certification exams before obtaining full licensure.
Emergency or Temporary Teaching Certification. In states with teacher shortages, candidates may receive emergency or provisional certification, which allows them to begin teaching immediately while completing the necessary coursework. These certificates are usually valid for 1 to 3 years, during which candidates must meet full certification requirements to continue teaching.
Master’s Degree Route. Some states allow candidates to earn a Master of Education (M.Ed.) with certification in 1.5 to 2 years. Similar to traditional and standard pathways, students may also take this teaching degree online.

Can pursuing a master's degree boost my secondary teaching career?

Advanced educational opportunities, such as earning a master’s degree, can expand an educator’s expertise in pedagogy, curriculum design, and leadership. This additional qualification can enhance classroom instruction, facilitate career progression into administrative or specialized roles, and improve salary prospects. For educators seeking flexible and cost-effective options, explore master's degrees for teachers that are designed to complement secondary teaching certification while accommodating busy schedules and professional responsibilities.

How can I prepare for secondary teaching certification exams?

To succeed in certification exams, develop a structured study plan that targets both subject-specific content and pedagogical principles. Consider utilizing practice tests, review workshops, and targeted study groups to build confidence and identify areas needing improvement. Regularly consult official testing guidelines provided by your state and adjust your preparation strategy accordingly. For state-specific resources and detailed requirements on how to get a teacher certification, review the latest information available to ensure your study efforts align with current standards.

Should I pursue an advanced degree after obtaining secondary teaching certification?

Advanced degrees can open new avenues in educational leadership, policy development, and curriculum innovation that are not typically accessible with a basic teaching certification. Educators who seek to expand their roles often consider advanced programs to gain enhanced analytical skills and strategic insight into school management and systemic improvement. These programs are designed to meet the demands of evolving educational landscapes while offering flexible scheduling and online formats tailored for working professionals. For those interested in accelerating their career progression, exploring EdD online programs might provide the specialized training and professional network needed to move into higher-level administrative or consultative positions.

How much does a certificate in secondary teaching cost?

The cost of secondary teaching certification in the U.S. varies based on the institution, program format (online or in-person), and whether the candidate is completing certification alone or as part of a degree.

Online tuition fees typically include course instruction, digital learning materials, access to virtual classrooms, and academic support services but usually exclude expenses like textbooks, exam fees, and certification application costs.

On-site tuition fees often cover classroom instruction, library access, student services, and sometimes lab fees but do not include housing, meal plans, transportation, or additional certification-related expenses.

Below are tuition estimates based on actual programs from U.S. universities and alternative certification providers.

At the University of North Dakota, undergraduate tuition for most programs is approximately $460 per credit, depending on residency status. The estimated total cost for certification with a 15–30 credit is $6,900 – $13,8000.
The American College of Education’s Certificate in Transition to Teaching in Secondary Education for those who have a non-education bachelor's degree costs $6,100 in total.
University of Alabama Online Offers an M.A. in Secondary Education (Science) with certification. Tuition details are not listed publicly, but graduate tuition at UA Online is estimated at $440 per credit hour. Estimated total cost (30–36 credit hours): $13,200 – $15,840.
Alternative certification programs are cheaper than university-based programs. For example, the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence offers certification costing $1,900.

In comparison, other grade levels may have different timelines and cost structures. For instance, the steps to become a preschool teacher often involve completing a certificate or associate degree in early childhood education, which is typically more affordable and requires fewer credit hours than secondary certification programs.

What financial aid options can support my secondary teaching certification journey?

Explore federal grants, state-specific scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs available exclusively for educators. Candidates should investigate institutional financial aid packages and partnerships with organizations to offset tuition and exam fees. In addition, many programs provide employer-sponsored reimbursement plans that reward qualified teachers, thus reducing up-front financial burdens. For those considering career advancement through higher education, pursuing an advanced degree such as an organizational leadership PhD degree may unlock additional funding opportunities and long-term financial benefits.

What are the emerging trends in secondary teaching certification?

Recent policy shifts and technological advancements are redefining the landscape of secondary teaching certification. Changes in state standards emphasize competency-based assessments, inclusivity in curriculum design, and digital literacy in classroom instruction. Moreover, emerging pathways now integrate alternative certification methods and flexible online coursework, which support diverse career trajectories while accommodating working educators’ needs. For example, the emphasis on leadership in modern classrooms has increased interest in pursuing online masters in educational leadership as a way to enhance administrative skills and drive school innovation.

Should I consider a complementary degree alongside my secondary teaching certification?

Supplementing a secondary teaching certification with an additional academic credential can open doors to enhanced professional opportunities and diversified roles within educational settings. By integrating specialized studies in areas such as information management or digital curriculum design—for example, exploring what can I do with a library science degree—educators gain a competitive edge in designing innovative learning environments and managing educational resources. This strategic academic expansion not only facilitates leadership in school resource management but also bolsters one’s capacity to adapt to emerging technological trends and interdisciplinary teaching methods.

Could a Secondary Teaching Certification Open Doors to Interdisciplinary Careers?

Educators holding a secondary teaching certification can expand their professional horizons into roles that merge instructional expertise with organizational and resource management skills. Diverse career options include curriculum development, educational consulting, and instructional design, as well as positions in academic administration that require critical thinking and leadership. Some professionals also explore opportunities in related fields—for instance, leveraging their background in education to transition into specialized areas such as library and information sciences, where one can pursue jobs with a library science degree.

What can I do with a secondary teaching certificate?

A secondary teaching certificate qualifies individuals for multiple career paths beyond the traditional classroom setting. Certified teachers can pursue roles in education, administration, and even corporate training.

Public or Private Schools. Certified teachers can work in grades 6–12 in public, charter, and private schools.
Substitute Teacher. Step in for full-time teachers during their absence, delivering pre-planned lessons and maintaining classroom order. This role offers flexibility and a variety of teaching experiences.
Instructional Designer. Develop educational materials, online courses, and training programs using research-based instructional strategies for schools, businesses, or e-learning platforms.
Corporate and Nonprofit Training Roles. Utilize your teaching skills in a corporate setting by developing and delivering training programs to employees, enhancing their skills and knowledge in specific areas.
Academic Coach. Work one-on-one with students to identify their academic strengths and weaknesses, developing personalized strategies to improve their performance and study habits.
Tutor. Offer personalized instruction outside the traditional classroom, helping students improve in specific subjects, prepare for standardized tests, or strengthen their skills.
Camp Director. Oversee the planning and execution of camp programs, ensuring a safe and enriching environment for participants. This role involves organizing activities, managing staff, and handling administrative tasks.
International Teacher. U.S. certification is recognized in some international schools, especially with additional TESOL or bilingual endorsements.

How much is the salary of those with secondary teaching certification?

The salary for those with a secondary teaching certification who are already secondary teachers ranges from $62,578 to $75,257, depending on experience, expertise, and additional qualifications (Salary.com, 2025).

Entry-Level Teacher ($62,578). This applies to newly certified teachers with little to no experience in the field. They typically start at the lower end of the salary spectrum while gaining classroom experience, refining their teaching strategies, and learning school policies.
Intermediate-Level Teacher ($62,957). Teachers at this level have acquired some experience, often between 2 to 5 years. While the salary increase from entry-level is modest, it reflects the teacher’s growing expertise and ability to manage a classroom more effectively.
Senior-Level Teacher ($67,962). With several years (usually 5-10) of teaching experience, senior teachers earn higher salaries due to their accumulated knowledge, classroom management skills, and possibly additional certifications or leadership responsibilities.
Specialist-Level Teacher ($74,771) -This category includes educators with specialized expertise in a subject area, advanced degrees, or additional certifications. They may take on extra responsibilities like mentoring junior teachers, developing curriculum, or leading academic programs.
Expert-Level Teacher (Secondary School). $75,257 - Teachers at this level have extensive experience, often more than 10 years, and are considered masters in their field. They may have advanced degrees, such as an online master's degree in reading, mathematics, and science. They may also contribute to education policy, research, or instructional leadership, leading to higher pay.

Wondering where to teach? According to ZipRecruiter, the highest-paying cities for high school teachers are Nome, AK ($112,102), Berkeley, CA ($110,651), and Sitka, AK ($108,865).

What is the job outlook of secondary school teachers?

While the job growth rate for high school teachers is projected to decline slightly by 1% from 2023 to 2033, the demand for qualified educators remains strong, with 64,000 job openings expected each year on average (BLS, 2023).

These openings primarily arise from teacher retirements, career transitions, and school expansions, ensuring continued opportunities for new educators.

The need for secondary teachers fluctuates based on student enrollment, state policies, and school budgets. However, teaching remains a stable and rewarding career with opportunities for growth, specialization, and leadership.

Passionate educators will always be essential in shaping the next generation, making secondary teaching a meaningful and impactful career choice.

Projections for 2031 suggest a continued strong demand for educators, with an estimated 487,000 private school teachers and 3.19 million public school teachers needed (Statista, 2024). This underscores the importance of teaching as a profession.

In 2023, BLS data showed that a significant majority of high school teachers, about 81%, were employed in local public elementary and secondary schools. The ongoing need for dedicated teachers in both private and public sectors further illustrates the importance of the teaching profession in our society.

How can I evaluate the quality and accreditation of secondary teaching certification programs?

Prospective educators should verify that the program is accredited by recognized agencies, such as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or relevant state authorities, to ensure compliance with industry standards. Assess program quality by reviewing curriculum alignment with current educational practices, graduation rates, job placement statistics, and the extent of practical teaching experiences offered. Additionally, consider faculty credentials, institutional reviews, and state authorization as reliable quality indicators. For those looking into further specialization while managing cost, exploring options like the cheapest online EdD may provide a valuable pathway.

Other Things You Need To Know Before Getting A Secondary Teaching Certification

Can you teach in the US without a teaching degree?

Yes, it is possible to teach in the U.S. without a teaching degree, but requirements vary by state, school type, and subject area. Private and charter schools are not always required to follow state licensure rules and often hire teachers without certification, focusing instead on subject expertise and teaching experience.

Can you get a teaching certificate online in the United States?

Yes, several universities and alternative certification programs offer online pathways for obtaining a teaching certificate.

Online certification programs are available for Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification, Alternative Certification Programs, and Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) with Certification – Some universities offer fully online master’s programs that include licensure.

How can teachers maintain their certification?

Teachers can maintain their secondary teaching certification by completing continuing education credits, professional development, or graduate coursework as their state requires (Department of Defense Education Activity).

Many states mandate license renewal every 3 to 5 years, which may include attending workshops, earning additional endorsements, or passing updated certification exams. Some states also require classroom evaluations or professional growth plans, ensuring teachers stay updated with new educational strategies and standards.

Can a foreigner become a teacher in the US?

Yes, foreign nationals can teach in the United States by meeting specific requirements and obtaining the appropriate visa. One common pathway is through the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, which allows qualified international teachers to teach full-time at accredited U.S. primary or secondary schools for up to three years.

References:

American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence. (2024). Programs & prices. Retrieved from https://www.americanboard.org/programs-and-prices/

American College of Education. (2024). Certificate in transition to teaching in secondary education. Retrieved from https://ace.edu/degree-programs/certificates/certificates-education/certificate-in-transition-to-teaching-in-secondary-education/

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Employee benefits in the United States - March 2024. U.S. Department of Labor.

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). High school teachers: Occupational outlook handbook. U.S. Department of Labor.
Data USA. (2023). Secondary school teachers. Data USA.

Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA). (2024). Teaching licensure requirements for DoDEA schools. Retrieved from https://www.dodea.edu/offices/human-resources/work-dodea/licensure

J1 Visa Exchanges. (2024). Basic requirements to become an international teacher in the USA. Retrieved from https://www.j1visaexchanges.com/blog/basic-requirements-to-become-an-international-teacher-in-the-usa/
National Center for Education Statistics. (2023, October 17). Press release: New data on the condition of education 2023. U.S. Department of Education.

National Center for Education Statistics. (2024). 2024 School Pulse Panel results. U.S. Department of Education.

Salary.com. (2025). Teacher secondary school salary in the U.S. Retrieved from https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/teacher-secondary-school-salary

Statista. (2024). Number of teachers in elementary and secondary schools in the U.S. from 1955 to 2031. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/185012/number-of-teachers-in-elementary-and-secondary-schools-since-1955/
TEACH.org. (2023). Becoming a teacher: Teaching certification. TEACH.org.