Teaching is a rewarding career, and Mississippi offers multiple pathways to certification, from traditional degree programs to alternative and online routes.
Whether you’re a new graduate or a career changer, understanding the steps and requirements is key to learning how to become a teacher in Mississippi.
This guide covers everything from education and exams to costs and salaries, with Prepsaret prep materials helping you succeed on essential Praxis exams.
Mississippi’s Teacher Certification Pathways
Mississippi provides multiple steps to becoming a teacher, making the profession accessible to people with varied backgrounds and goals.
The teaching career path Mississippi recognizes both traditional college students and career changers, ensuring that every candidate has a route to the classroom.
The most common pathway is earning a bachelor’s degree followed by an approved educator preparation program.
At the same time, the state supports flexible alternatives. Career professionals without an education degree, individuals seeking online certification, and those entering through temporary placements all have viable options.
Ultimately, all steps to becoming a certified teacher in Mississippi share the same purpose: preparing educators to meet the standards set by the Mississippi Department of Education.
Overview of Mississippi Teaching Career Paths
- Traditional four-year degree programs with teacher education coursework
- Alternative certification programs for professionals changing careers
- Online certification programs for added flexibility
- Emergency certification options to address staffing shortages
Mississippi Educational Requirements and Degree Specifications
What degree do you need to teach in Mississippi? The minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, though the specific Mississippi teaching degree requirements vary by grade level and subject area.
Teacher Education Programs in Mississippi
For candidates on the traditional pathway, completing approved teacher education programs in Mississippi is essential. These programs, offered by state universities and colleges, provide the skills and knowledge needed to manage classrooms and deliver effective instruction.
Components of an Educator Preparation Program
Each approved educator preparation program is designed to combine academic coursework with hands-on training. Core elements generally include:
- General education courses covering core academic subjects
- Professional education courses focusing on teaching methods
- Field experiences and student teaching requirements
- Specialized coursework for your chosen grade level or subject
Graduate-Level Options for Career Changers in Mississippi
Mississippi also supports professionals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
Graduate-level programs allow these individuals to complete teacher preparation requirements while earning a master’s degree in education, creating a pathway into teaching through advanced study.
Examination and Assessment Requirements in Mississippi
All teacher candidates must pass specific examinations as part of the Mississippi teacher certification requirements. The Praxis exam requirements Mississippi include multiple assessments designed to evaluate your knowledge and teaching abilities.
Required Praxis Examinations for Mississippi Teachers
The required examinations typically include:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills: Reading (5713)
- Praxis Core Academic Skills: Writing (5723)
- Praxis Core Academic Skills: Mathematics (5733)
- Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT)
- Praxis Subject Assessments in your teaching area
How to Prepare for Praxis Exam in Mississippi
Prepsaret offers the most comprehensive preparation materials for these crucial exams, providing exact questions and answers that mirror the actual test format.
Their practice tests and study guides have helped thousands of candidates successfully pass their Praxis exam requirements Mississippi on the first attempt.
Related blog post: praxis practice test
Scoring Expectations for Mississippi Praxis Exam
Score requirements vary by test, but most candidates need to achieve scores in the upper ranges to meet certification standards.
Proper preparation through quality study materials like those offered by Prepsaret.com can significantly improve your chances of success.
Learn more: How Praxis Scoring Works
The Mississippi Teaching Certification Process
Understanding the teaching certification process is essential for anyone pursuing a classroom career in the state. The steps are designed to ensure that all candidates meet the professional standards required for a Mississippi teaching license.
Following each stage carefully will help you avoid delays and move efficiently toward certification.
Step 1: Complete Education Requirements in Mississippi
- Earn your bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Complete an approved educator preparation program
- Maintain a minimum GPA as specified by your program
Step 2: Pass Required Examinations in Mississippi
- Successfully complete all Praxis exam requirements Mississippi
- Submit official score reports to the state department
Step 3: Submit Application and Documentation
- Complete the online application through the Mississippi Department of Education teacher certification portal
- Provide official transcripts from all attended institutions
- Submit verification of program completion
Step 4: Background Check and Fees
- Complete a criminal background check
- Pay all required application and licensing fees
- Provide fingerprints for federal background screening
License Classifications and Requirements in Mississippi
The state offers multiple levels of teacher licensure, each with distinct Mississippi teacher certification requirements:
- Class A License – for candidates with a bachelor’s degree
- Class AA License – for candidates with a master’s degree
- Class AAA License – for candidates with a specialist or doctoral degree
Alternative Certification and Non-Traditional Routes in Mississippi
Mississippi understands that not every teacher begins their journey in the traditional way. Many professionals decide to switch careers or bring expertise from other fields into the classroom.
To support these candidates, Mississippi alternative teacher certification programs offer structured pathways that maintain high standards while providing flexible entry into the profession.
Career Changer Programs in Mississippi
If you’re wondering how to become a teacher in Mississippi without a teaching degree, alternative route to teacher certification in Mississippi create opportunities for qualified professionals. These programs are specifically designed for individuals who:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in another field
- Have relevant work experience
- Demonstrate strong content knowledge in their subject area
By meeting these requirements, career changers can transition into teaching while receiving the preparation and support needed to succeed.
Teach Mississippi Institute Alternative Certification
The Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI) serves as a flagship program for alternative certification. This intensive program provides accelerated preparation for career changers who want to enter the classroom quickly while receiving ongoing support during their first years of teaching.
How to Become a Teacher in Mississippi Online
Online teacher certification programs in Mississippi provide flexibility for working professionals or those with family obligations. These programs offer the same rigorous preparation as traditional programs but allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule.
If you’re wondering how to become a teacher in Mississippi without traditional on-campus programs, online options provide excellent alternatives while maintaining program quality and state approval.
Free and Emergency Certification Options in Mississippi
Many aspiring teachers wonder how to become a teacher in Mississippi for free or at reduced cost. While there is no completely cost-free pathway, several financial aid programs and emergency licensure routes help reduce expenses and provide quicker entry into the classroom.
Financial Assistance Programs for Mississippi Teachers
Aspiring teachers can lower their preparation costs through a variety of funding sources, including:
- Federal Pell Grants for undergraduate students
- Mississippi Teacher Fellowship Program
- Loan forgiveness programs for teachers in high-need areas
- Scholarship opportunities through individual universities
Try this out: Praxis General Science (5436) Free Questions
Emergency Certification Requirements in Mississippi
Emergency teacher certification Mississippi requirements allow school districts to hire qualified individuals when regular certified teachers aren’t available. This temporary certification requires:
- A bachelor’s degree in the subject area to be taught
- Passing scores on required Praxis examinations
- Employment offer from a Mississippi school district
- Commitment to complete regular certification requirements within a specified timeframe
Emergency certification provides an immediate pathway into the classroom while allowing time to complete traditional certification requirements.
Mississippi Teacher Reciprocity and Interstate Credentials
Teacher reciprocity Mississippi helps certified educators from other states transfer their credentials and begin teaching with fewer barriers.
While not fully automatic, the Mississippi teacher certification reciprocity process is designed to recognize prior qualifications and streamline licensing.
Reciprocity Requirements for Out-of-State Teachers
The Mississippi teacher certification reciprocity for out-of-state teachers process requires:
- Valid teaching license from another state
- Verification of good standing from the issuing state
- Official transcripts showing degree completion
- Passing scores on required Mississippi examinations (if different from original state requirements)
Reciprocity Processing Timeline in Mississippi
The reciprocity process typically takes less time than original certification, often completed within 2-3 months. However, some teachers may need to complete additional coursework or examinations if their original preparation doesn’t fully align with Mississippi standards.
Related: State by State Praxis Requirements
Grade-Level Specific Requirements in Mississippi
Mississippi teacher certification requirements vary depending on the grade level you plan to teach. Each pathway emphasizes the skills and knowledge most relevant to the age group and subject area.
Elementary Education Certification (K–6)
To meet Mississippi teaching requirements for elementary school teachers, candidates must complete specialized coursework in:
- Reading instruction methods and literacy development
- Mathematics content and pedagogy for foundational skills
- Science and social studies methods for integrated curriculum
- Child development and learning theory
- Classroom management strategies for young learners
This preparation ensures teachers can effectively support early childhood learning and build a strong academic foundation.
Middle and High School Certification (Grade 7-12)
For grades 7–12, certification emphasizes subject-area expertise and adolescent development. Teachers must:
- Earn a specific endorsement in the subject they plan to teach (e.g., mathematics, English, biology)
- Complete coursework in discipline-specific pedagogy
- Understand the unique needs of adolescent learners
This approach ensures secondary-level educators are both content experts and skilled in engaging older students.
Timeline, Costs, and Salary for Mississippi Teachers
Understanding how long it takes to become a teacher in Mississippi, along with the expected salary, can help you plan your career path effectively.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Teaching License in Mississippi
The timeline depends on the certification route you choose:
Traditional Certification Timeline
- Four years for bachelor’s degree completion
- One additional semester for student teaching
- 2-3 months for license processing
Alternative Certification Timeline
- 1-2 years for program completion
- Concurrent teaching while completing requirements
- Immediate emergency certification available in some cases
Reciprocity Timeline
- 2-3 months for license transfer
- Additional time if coursework or examinations are required
Teacher Salary Overview in Mississippi
Teacher salaries Mississippi vary by district, experience level, and education.
The state has made significant investments in educator compensation, with average salaries ranging from $35,000 for beginning teachers to over $50,000 for experienced educators with advanced degrees.
Mississippi Teaching License Lookup Tool
The Mississippi teaching license lookup tool is a convenient online system provided by the Mississippi Department of Education. It allows educators, administrators, and the public to quickly verify teaching credentials and license status.
What You Can Do With the Mississippi License Lookup
- Verifying your own license status
- Checking the credentials of colleagues or potential employees
- Monitoring license renewal requirements
Additional Resources From the Mississippi Department of Education
Alongside the lookup system, the Department of Education website also provides:
- Application forms and submission instructions
- Lists of approved educator preparation programs
- Professional development and renewal resources
- Updates on certification policies and requirements
How to Become a Teacher in Mississippi: FAQs
How Do I Become a Teacher in Mississippi Without a Teaching Degree?
Alternative certification programs allow individuals with bachelor's degrees in other fields to become teachers. These programs include intensive preparation and ongoing support while teaching.
What Is the Quickest Program to Become a Teacher?
Emergency certification provides the fastest entry into the classroom, requiring only a bachelor's degree and passing exam scores. However, you must complete regular certification requirements within a specified timeframe.
What Is a Teacher's Salary in Mississippi?
Teacher salaries range from approximately $35,000 for beginning teachers to over $50,000 for experienced educators with advanced degrees. Salaries vary by district and experience level.
How Fast Can I Get My Teacher Certification?
With emergency certification, you can begin teaching almost immediately upon meeting basic requirements. Regular certification processing typically takes 2-3 months after completing all requirements.
Do Teachers Get Paid Once a Month in Mississippi?
Payment schedules vary by district, with some paying monthly and others offering bi-weekly or different payment options. Teachers can often choose their preferred payment schedule.
How to Become a Teacher in Mississippi: Conclusion
Learning how to become a teacher in Mississippi opens doors to a fulfilling career that shapes future generations. The state’s multiple certification pathways ensure that qualified individuals from various backgrounds can enter the teaching profession.
Whether you choose the traditional four-year route, pursue alternative certification, or transfer credentials from another state, Mississippi provides comprehensive support for aspiring educators.
With proper preparation using quality resources like Prepsaret‘s exam materials, you can successfully navigate the certification process and begin your rewarding teaching career.
The investment in becoming a teacher pays dividends not only in personal satisfaction but in the positive impact you’ll have on countless students throughout your career.