2026 How to Become a Teacher in Tennessee – What Degree Do You Need to Be a Teacher

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What are the educational requirements for teachers in Tennessee?

Tennessee public school teachers must generally hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. The degree does not always have to be an education major, but candidates must complete an approved teacher preparation program that includes education theory, teaching methods, subject-area preparation, field observations, and student teaching. If you are comparing pathways, it helps to understand the main types of degrees in education and how each aligns with licensure.

Traditional undergraduate programs often combine the bachelor’s degree and educator preparation requirements into one sequence. These programs can be efficient for first-time college students because field experiences, licensure coursework, and endorsement preparation are built into the degree plan. A 2024 report found that 29.5% of Tennessee teacher candidates received endorsements in areas such as secondary math, secondary science, and English as a second language.

Before licensure, candidates must take the required Praxis exams for the grade level and subject area they plan to teach. The Tennessee Department of Education identifies the appropriate Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators and Praxis II Subject Assessment requirements for each endorsement area.

After completing the degree, educator preparation program, testing, and background check requirements, candidates may apply for a Tennessee teaching license.

What are the different Tennessee teaching certifications and their requirements?

Tennessee uses license types and endorsements to define who may teach, where they may teach, and which subjects or grade levels they may teach. The two core license stages are the Practitioner License and the Professional License.

The Practitioner License is the entry-level license for new educators. Candidates seeking a practitioner teacher license must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university and must be enrolled in or have completed an approved educator preparation program. Applicants must also meet State Board of Education assessment requirements and hold at least one endorsement area.

The Practitioner License is valid for three years. To move to a Professional License, educators must generally complete three years of satisfactory teaching experience in an approved Tennessee school, meet professional development expectations, and receive the required recommendation from the director of schools or an equivalent authority.

Tennessee also offers targeted routes for candidates who do not fit the traditional pathway. These include Alternative Academic Licensure, options for career changers, and pathways for out-of-state educators. Endorsements are available in specialized fields such as English as a Second Language, Special Education, and Career and Technical Education.

If you are comparing credential routes, review the types of teaching certificates in Tennessee before selecting a program. The right choice can reduce unnecessary coursework, prevent licensure delays, and help you avoid paying for a program that does not match your intended endorsement.

What is the licensure application and renewal process for teachers in Tennessee?

Applicants apply for Tennessee teacher licensure through the Tennessee Educator Licensure System. The process usually involves creating an online account, submitting the application, paying the required fee, and uploading or verifying supporting documents such as official transcripts, educator preparation completion records, and passing Praxis scores.

New educators typically apply for the Tennessee teacher practitioner license. Tennessee issues practitioner licenses in multiple endorsement areas so eligible candidates can begin classroom teaching. Among public school teachers in Tennessee in 2024, 42,911 held a master’s degree in education or a similar program, while 27,218 held a bachelor’s degree.

To advance from a practitioner license to a professional license, teachers must complete an approved educator preparation program, submit required content and literacy assessment scores, and complete three years of teaching experience. They must also provide a recommendation from the director of schools or documentation of 30 professional development points.

How to Renew a Tennessee Teacher License

Professional development is part of maintaining a Tennessee teaching license. Teacher licenses in Tennessee expire every five years, so educators should track renewal deadlines and submit renewal materials before expiration to avoid gaps in licensure.

For renewal, teachers must complete 15 professional development hours each year. Renewal applications may be submitted to the Tennessee Department of Education online or by mail, along with documentation of completed professional development hours and any other required materials.

Does Tennessee Offer License Reciprocity?

Tennessee provides several licensure options for out-of-state educators, including pathways intended to address vacancies. Educators who hold a professional-level license in another state may qualify for a Tennessee professional six-year teacher license if their credential is equivalent to the Tennessee Professional License.

Out-of-state candidates may also apply for practitioner licenses if they are enrolled in teacher preparation programs, hold initial-level licenses, or completed an educator preparation program with an appropriate recommendation.

How long does it take to become a teacher in Tennessee?

For many first-time college students, becoming a teacher in Tennessee takes about five to six years. A bachelor’s degree commonly takes around four years, and completing a teacher preparation program can add about two semesters, depending on the program design and whether licensure coursework is built into the degree.

After completing academic and preparation requirements, candidates apply for a practitioner license, complete a background check, and take required assessments such as the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching exam and other Praxis exams tied to the endorsement. Candidates should verify current requirements through the Tennessee Department of Education because assessment and endorsement rules can change.

Are online teaching programs accepted for licensure in Tennessee?

Yes. Online teaching programs can be accepted for Tennessee teacher licensure when they meet the same approval, accreditation, fieldwork, assessment, and endorsement requirements expected of campus-based programs. The Tennessee Department of Education does not make a program acceptable simply because it is online or unacceptable simply because it is online; what matters is whether the program satisfies state licensure standards.

Before enrolling in an online teaching program, confirm the following:

• Recognized accreditation: Look for institutional accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
• State approval: Verify that the educator preparation program is approved by the appropriate state authority and is suitable for Tennessee licensure goals.
• Student teaching or field placement: Make sure the program includes supervised classroom experience that can be completed in a setting acceptable for licensure.
• Endorsement alignment: Confirm that the program prepares you for the exact grade level and subject area you want to teach.
• Testing preparation: Ask how the program prepares candidates for required Praxis assessments.

How does an online teaching program in Tennessee compare to an on-campus program?

Online and campus-based teaching programs can lead to similar licensure outcomes if they are properly approved and include required field experiences. The main differences usually involve scheduling, classroom interaction, travel, campus services, peer networking, and cost structure. Students comparing options can start with Research.com’s guide to the best online colleges for teaching degrees, then verify Tennessee-specific licensure alignment with each institution.

On-Campus Teaching Programs in Tennessee

On-campus programs place students in physical classrooms with faculty and peers. This format can make it easier to ask questions in real time, build relationships, participate in group projects, and use campus libraries, tutoring centers, labs, and advising offices. For students who learn best through structured schedules and in-person support, campus programs may be the better fit.

Online Teaching Programs in Tennessee

Online teaching programs deliver coursework through digital platforms. Students may watch lectures, complete assignments, join virtual discussions, and communicate with instructors through email or learning management systems. This format can work well for students balancing work, family responsibilities, or distance from campus.

Online programs can also lower indirect costs because students may spend less on transportation, housing, food, and relocation. However, online students should be realistic about time management and must confirm how student teaching placements are arranged.

What is the average cost of teaching programs in Tennessee?

According to the Tennessee Department of Education, the average tuition for a bachelor’s degree in the state is $20,890. The average tuition for a master’s degree is $12,830, while the average cost of teacher preparation programs is $5,277.96.

Costs vary by institution, residency status, program level, credit requirements, online or campus format, and whether a candidate already holds a bachelor’s degree. A survey found that 54% of leaders in education preparation described their programs as “very affordable” or “affordable.”

Prospective teachers should compare total program cost rather than tuition alone. Fees, testing, textbooks, transportation, student teaching requirements, and lost work time can affect the real cost of becoming licensed.

How does one choose the teaching program in Tennessee?

The right school teacher degree program depends on your current education level, desired grade band, subject area, budget, schedule, and licensure goal. A highly ranked program is not useful if it does not prepare you for the endorsement you need.

Start with Licensure Approval

Confirm that the program is approved for educator preparation and aligns with Tennessee Department of Education requirements. Institutional accreditation and education-specific recognition, such as Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation standards, can also help you evaluate academic quality.

Match the Degree Level to Your Background

First-time college students may choose a bachelor’s program that includes licensure preparation. Those who already hold a bachelor’s degree may prefer a master’s, post-baccalaureate, licensure-only, or job-embedded option. Career changers should ask whether previous coursework can satisfy content requirements.

Choose the Endorsement Before the School

Decide whether you want elementary education, middle grades, secondary education, special education, ESL, early childhood education, or career and technical education. Then compare only programs that prepare candidates for that endorsement.

Review Outcomes and Support

Ask each program about Praxis preparation, field placement partnerships, graduate licensure completion, job search support, and advising quality. Strong support matters because licensure is a multi-step process.

How can I become an English teacher in Tennessee?

To become an English teacher in Tennessee, you need a licensure pathway that includes English language arts content preparation, teacher education coursework, supervised field experience, and the required subject assessments. Coursework should typically build strength in literature, composition, language arts instruction, and adolescent literacy when the goal is secondary teaching.

Because endorsement rules are specific, candidates should review a dedicated pathway before enrolling. Research.com’s guide to how to become an english teacher in Tennessee explains the process in greater detail.

What are the salary expectations for teachers in Tennessee?

Teacher pay in Tennessee varies by district, years of experience, education level, endorsements, additional duties, and local salary schedules. New teachers should not rely on statewide averages alone because two districts may offer different starting salaries, supplements, or stipends for the same license area.

Advanced degrees and endorsements may influence compensation depending on district policy. Some educators also compare early childhood, elementary, special education, and secondary routes when weighing workload, demand, and long-term fit. If you are considering early childhood education, Research.com also discusses whether is early childhood education an easy major from a student-planning perspective.

Before accepting an offer, review the district salary schedule, benefits, contract length, planning time, extra-duty pay, retirement contributions, and requirements for advancement.

What types of specializations are available for teaching in Tennessee?

Teaching specializations define the students, subjects, and grade levels you are prepared and authorized to teach. Even broad pathways such as on-campus and online elementary education degree programs may offer different endorsement options, so candidates should compare details carefully.

• Subject-specific teaching: Teachers may focus on mathematics, science, English/language arts, social studies, foreign languages, art, music, physical education, or career and technical education. This route is best for candidates who want to teach a defined academic or technical discipline.
• Special education: Special education teachers support students with disabilities or learning needs through individualized instruction, accommodations, and collaboration with families and school teams. Some programs prepare candidates for areas such as autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or emotional and behavioral disorders.
• English as a Second Language/English Language Learners: ESL and ELL teachers help non-native English speakers build listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills while supporting participation in academic classrooms.
• Gifted education: Gifted education specialists design differentiated and enrichment experiences for students with advanced academic, creative, leadership, or artistic abilities.
• Early childhood education: Early childhood educators work with young learners, commonly from birth to age eight, in preschool, kindergarten, and early elementary settings. Instruction focuses on social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development.

What is the easiest education degree for becoming a teacher in Tennessee?

The easiest education degree is not the same for every student. For first-time college students, a bachelor’s degree in education or a closely related licensure-track field is usually the most straightforward option because the degree, fieldwork, and endorsement preparation are often planned together. This route commonly takes about four years.

For people who already have a bachelor’s degree, the easier path may be a licensure-only, post-baccalaureate, master’s, or job-embedded program because it can build on prior education rather than requiring a second full undergraduate degree.

Instead of choosing the program with the fewest courses, choose the pathway with the clearest licensure alignment, strong advising, manageable field placement requirements, and coursework that fits your strengths. A program that looks easy at enrollment can become difficult if it does not prepare you for the correct Praxis exams or Tennessee endorsement.

How can I explore a school librarian role in Tennessee?

Teachers who want to move into school library services may need additional preparation in library science, information literacy, collection management, instructional technology, and school-based media services. Requirements can differ from classroom teaching routes, so it is important to verify credentials before starting a program. Research.com provides a focused guide on How to be a school librarian in Tennessee? for educators considering this transition.

What opportunities are available for teachers who want to specialize in a specific area, such as special education or elementary education?

Teachers can specialize by earning endorsements, completing advanced coursework, pursuing graduate degrees, or selecting programs focused on a specific student population or grade band. Elementary education is a strong fit for teachers who want to teach multiple subjects and build foundational skills, while special education may suit educators who want to provide individualized support for students with disabilities.

If your goal is elementary teaching, Research.com’s guide on how to become an elementary school teacher in Tennessee explains the grade-level pathway and requirements. Teachers considering special education should also compare endorsement rules, field placement expectations, and long-term workload before deciding.

What are the requirements to become a private school teacher in Tennessee?

Private school teacher requirements in Tennessee may differ from public school licensure expectations. Many private schools look for a bachelor’s degree, subject knowledge, classroom experience, and alignment with the school’s mission. Some may prefer or require state licensure, while others may consider alternative credentials or professional experience.

Because requirements vary by institution, candidates should review job postings carefully and ask whether licensure, religious affiliation, specialized training, or prior classroom experience is required. For a more detailed pathway, see Research.com’s guide to private school teacher requirements in Tennessee.

How can I become a teacher online in Tennessee?

You can pursue a Tennessee teaching career through an online program if the program is accredited, approved for educator preparation, aligned with Tennessee licensure requirements, and includes acceptable field experience or student teaching. Online coursework may be flexible, but licensure still requires real classroom practice and state-required assessments.

Before enrolling, ask where field placements occur, whether the program regularly prepares Tennessee candidates, and which endorsement the program leads to. Research.com’s guide on how to become a teacher online in Tennessee covers this route in more detail.

What are the essential steps to fulfill teacher certification requirements in Tennessee?

The essential steps are to choose an approved educator preparation program, complete the required degree and coursework, satisfy field experience requirements, pass the appropriate assessments, document your endorsement area, complete the background check, and submit the licensure application through the state system.

Because requirements can differ by grade level and subject area, candidates should use a checklist before applying. Research.com’s guide to teacher certification requirements in Tennessee can help you compare certification types and avoid missing required documents.

What are the requirements for becoming a substitute teacher in Tennessee?

Substitute teaching can be a practical way to gain classroom experience before committing to full teacher licensure. Requirements are often set at the district level and may include education credentials, background checks, orientation, classroom management training, and compliance with local school policies.

Because substitute requirements can vary by district, applicants should check directly with the district where they plan to work. Research.com’s overview of Tennessee substitute teacher requirements explains common expectations and application steps.

What are the requirements to become a kindergarten teacher in Tennessee?

Kindergarten teachers in Tennessee typically need a bachelor’s degree, completion of an approved teacher preparation program, appropriate early childhood or elementary preparation, required licensure assessments, and the relevant endorsement. Because kindergarten sits at the intersection of early childhood development and elementary readiness, candidates should choose programs that specifically prepare them for young learners.

For details on age-band preparation, coursework, and testing, review Research.com’s guide to kindergarten teacher requirements in Tennessee.

What career paths are available for licensed teachers in Tennessee?

A Tennessee teaching license can support classroom and non-classroom education careers. Some roles require additional endorsements, graduate study, or administrative credentials, but classroom experience is a strong foundation for many education careers.

• Public school teacher: Licensed teachers provide instruction in authorized grade levels and subjects within Tennessee public schools.
• Special education teacher: These educators support students with disabilities, develop individualized strategies, and collaborate with families and school teams.
• ESL teacher: ESL educators help English language learners build academic language skills and participate more fully in classroom instruction.
• Curriculum developer: Experienced teachers may create instructional materials, assessments, pacing guides, and lesson resources.
• Adult education instructor: Teachers may work with adult learners in GED preparation, workforce training, community education, or career-readiness programs.
• Private tutor: Licensed teachers may provide individualized instruction outside a traditional school setting.

How do I obtain special education teacher certification in Tennessee?

To pursue special education teacher certification in Tennessee, candidates must complete an approved educator preparation program with special education coursework and supervised field experiences. They must also pass the required assessments for the special education endorsement and submit documentation to the Tennessee Department of Education.

Because special education licensure can involve specific grade bands and service areas, candidates should verify the exact endorsement before enrolling. Research.com’s guide to special education teacher certification in Tennessee explains the process in more detail.

What advanced certifications and degrees can boost my teaching career in Tennessee?

Advanced credentials can help Tennessee teachers move into leadership, specialized instruction, curriculum design, instructional technology, administration, or higher-level teaching roles. Options may include master’s degrees, graduate certificates, educational leadership preparation, curriculum and instruction programs, and specialty endorsements.

Teachers interested in special education can also explore how undergraduate preparation connects to broader education careers. Research.com’s guide on what can you do with bachelors in special education outlines possible pathways beyond the initial classroom role.

What is the job market for licensed teachers in Tennessee?

Nationally, employment for teachers from 2024 to 2034 shows little growth, except for postsecondary teachers at 7%. Tennessee’s situation is different because teacher vacancies and state demand patterns continue to shape hiring needs across districts and subject areas.

Six teaching positions appear on Tennessee’s list of most in-demand occupations by 2026. Their annual job openings over the last 10 years are:

• Postsecondary Health Specialties Teachers: 845
• Postsecondary Business Teachers: 280
• Elementary School Teachers: 2,420
• Secondary School Teachers: 1,495
• Middle School Teachers: 820
• Kindergarten Teachers: 340

The chart below highlights teaching occupations with the strongest employment growth. Tennessee’s elementary school teacher job outlook is especially relevant for candidates comparing grade-level options.

What are the alternative pathways to becoming a teacher in Tennessee?

Tennessee offers alternative routes for people who want to teach but did not complete a traditional undergraduate education degree. These pathways may be useful for career changers, recent graduates in high-need subjects, military personnel, industry professionals, and candidates seeking job-embedded classroom experience.

• Teach For America: Teach For America places recent graduates and professionals in high-need schools, including placements in Tennessee. Participants typically commit to at least two years of teaching while receiving training, support, and mentorship, often while working toward certification.
• Job-embedded programs: These routes allow qualified candidates to teach while completing an educator preparation program. Candidates usually need a bachelor’s degree in the subject they plan to teach or a closely related field.
• Transitioning from the Military to Teaching: Troops to Teachers supports eligible military personnel moving into education careers through licensure guidance, preparation support, and job placement services.
• Professional licensure based on work experience: Certain technical and vocational teaching areas may allow candidates with substantial industry experience to qualify for teaching roles without following a traditional education-degree sequence.
• Adjunct instructor license: Tennessee offers an adjunct instructor license for part-time teaching in high-demand areas. The license is valid for one year and can be renewed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Becoming a Teacher in Tennessee

Questions to Ask Before Enrolling in a Tennessee Teaching Program

• Is this educator preparation program approved for Tennessee licensure?
• Which endorsement or endorsements will I be eligible for after completing the program?
• What Praxis exams will I need, and how does the program prepare candidates for them?
• Where will my fieldwork and student teaching placements occur?
• If the program is online, how are Tennessee classroom placements coordinated?
• What is the full cost, including tuition, fees, testing, books, transportation, and clinical requirements?
• Can prior credits, work experience, or an existing bachelor’s degree reduce my time to completion?
• What support does the program provide for licensure applications and job placement?
• What happens if I move to another state after completing the program?
• Does the program publish licensure exam pass rates or other student outcome information?

Current Trends Affecting Tennessee Teacher Preparation

Teacher preparation in Tennessee is being shaped by several practical forces: district vacancies, demand for specialized endorsements, interest in flexible online and job-embedded pathways, and growing employer attention to classroom readiness. Candidates are also entering classrooms where technology, digital learning tools, and AI-supported instructional resources are becoming more common.

AI will not remove the need for teachers, but it can change daily work. Teachers may increasingly use digital tools for lesson planning, differentiation, feedback, assessment review, and communication. Strong candidates will need both human classroom skills and enough technology judgment to use tools ethically, protect student privacy, and verify the quality of AI-generated content.

For aspiring teachers, the best preparation is not simply the fastest program. It is a program that develops classroom management, content knowledge, inclusive instruction, assessment literacy, and responsible technology use while meeting Tennessee licensure requirements.

Key Insights

• The basic Tennessee teacher pathway is clear: earn a bachelor’s degree, complete an approved educator preparation program, pass required Praxis assessments, complete a background check, and apply for licensure.
• Licensure fit matters more than program popularity: choose a program that matches your intended endorsement, grade band, and subject area.
• Online programs can work: Tennessee may accept online teacher preparation when accreditation, approval, testing, and field experience requirements are met.
• The typical timeline varies by background: first-time students often need about five to six years, while bachelor’s degree holders may qualify for shorter alternative, post-baccalaureate, MAT, or job-embedded routes.
• Costs go beyond tuition: include fees, exams, books, transportation, and student teaching expenses when comparing programs.
• Specializations affect opportunity: elementary education, special education, ESL, middle grades, secondary subjects, and early childhood education can lead to different requirements and job markets.
• Do not assume salary or hiring outcomes: district salary schedules, benefits, endorsements, and local demand determine the real value of a teaching role.
• The safest next step: identify your desired teaching area, verify approved programs through official sources, ask schools direct licensure questions, and compare total cost before enrolling.

References:

• BLS (2024, April 17). Career and Technical Education Teachers. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). High School Teachers. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). Instructional Coordinators. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). Middle School Teachers. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). Preschool Teachers. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). Postsecondary Education Administrators. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). Postsecondary Teachers. BLS
• BLS (2024, April 17). Special Education Teachers. BLS
• Salary.com (2024, April 24). Public School Teacher Salary in Tennessee. Salary.com
• Tennessee State Board of Education. Educator Workforce Update. Tennessee educator workforce update
• Salvemini, C. (2024, February 15). New state report card finds 10 TN teacher training programs exceed expectations. WBIR
• TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development. Tennessee’s In Demand Occupations to 2026. TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development