Mississippi Alternative Teacher Certification

Mississippi has developed one of the South’s most comprehensive alternative teacher certification systems, driven by an acute and persistent teacher shortage and a documented need to attract talented career changers into the state’s K-12 classrooms. 

The system is governed by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) and offers multiple approved non-traditional pathways — from the fully online Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI) to the graduate-degree-granting Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) to the self-paced American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) — each designed for different candidate profiles, timelines, and teaching goals.

The approved non-traditional route licensure types are: ‘Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI), Teach For America (TFA), Teacher Corps (TC), American Board Certification for Teacher Excellence (ABCTE), and a Five-Year Alternative Certification Option.’

Additionally, alleducationschools.com MS (February 5, 2026) confirms a fourth MDE-approved pathway: the Mississippi Alternative Path to Quality Teachers (MAPQT). The result is an ecosystem of nine distinct alternative pathways — each with unique features, requirements, and outcomes.

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative (April 15, 2025): ‘Alternative teacher preparation programs, also known as non-traditional programs, are designed for those with a bachelor’s degree outside of education and typically lead to a certificate or master’s degree. In Mississippi, there are three main alternative certification routes for prospective teachers with a bachelor’s degree but no certification or license. 

These pathways are the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), the Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI), and the American Board Certification for Teacher Excellence (ABCTE). In addition, Mississippi has alternate routes for career and technical education teachers (CTE).’

The defining feature of Mississippi’s alternative certification framework is its common structure: all pathways require a bachelor’s degree (with limited CTE exceptions), pre-enrollment Praxis testing, program training or coursework, a one-year paid internship at an MDE-accredited school, and culminate in the same five-year standard teaching license earned by traditionally trained teachers. 

The outcome is identical — but the path is designed for career changers who arrive at teaching without an education degree.

Mississippi Alternative Teacher Certification: Key Numbers

4 MDE-Listed Alt. Route Types TMI, MAT, MAPQT, ABCTE (mdek12.org How to Apply)

12 MAT Programs Statewide TMI programs page; each overseen by its university

3rd yr Intern Pay Rate (TMI) ‘Paid based on bachelor’s degree status as 3rd-yr teacher’

1 yr Required Internship (All) First full year of teaching at MDE-accredited school

 

5 yr Standard License After Intern. Five-year renewable upon internship completion

3 yr Alt. License if Incomplete Three-year license; must complete before expiry

2.75 GPA Req. (TMI Major GPA) teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt

$7K-22K Typical Alt. Cert. Cost Range research.com MS (March 2026) — program-dependent

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — 4 non-traditional route types listed: MAT, TMI, TFA, TC, ABCTE, 5-yr alt option; TMI programs (tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html) — ’12 MAT programs; paid as 3rd-yr teacher; provisional license; 5-yr standard’; MDE How to Apply — ‘3-yr license if not all requirements met; 5-yr if all met’; teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt — ‘2.75 GPA’; research.com MS — ‘$7K-$22K cost range.’ 

Policy Framework: MDE and the Alternate Route System

All alternative teacher certification in Mississippi is approved and overseen by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) Office of Educator Licensure. The framework is established in the Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 (August 2024) and operationalized through the MDE How to Apply for a License page (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/).

• MDE Alternate Route Programs page: mdek12.org/licensure/alternate/ — primary reference for all approved alternate route programs
• MDE How to Apply page: mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/ — lists all non-traditional route licensure types and required documentation
• Mississippi IHL (Institutions of Higher Learning): Oversees TMI and MAT programs at Mississippi universities. Contact: Dr. Susan Lee, 601-432-6522 (per teaching-certification.com MS Alt)
• ABCTE national office: 877-669-2228 (per teaching-certification.com MS Alt)
• iteach Mississippi: iteach.net/alternative-teacher-certification/mississippi-alternative-teacher-certification/
• MDE Educator Licensure: 601-359-3483; 601-359-3513 (general)

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/); MDE (mdek12.org/licensure/alternate/); teaching-certification.com MS Alt — IHL contact 601-432-6522; ABCTE 877-669-2228.

Universal Eligibility: What All Alternate Route Candidates Need

Universal Requirements — All Mississippi Alternative Certification Pathways

BACHELOR’S DEGREE: From an accredited institution. Non-education field. Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt: ‘Candidates for Mississippi alternative teacher licensure must have a bachelor’s degree.’ CTE is the only pathway where an associate degree may be accepted in some areas.

BASIC SKILLS TEST: A passing score on the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators, OR a qualifying ACT score, OR a qualifying SAT score, OR a GPA of 3.0 or higher (or equivalent). Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt: ‘Candidates for Mississippi alternative teacher licensure must have a bachelor’s degree and meet one of the following testing requirements: Have a passing score on the Praxis Core, or have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, or have appropriate ACT or SAT scores.’

PRAXIS II SUBJECT ASSESSMENT: A passing score on the Praxis II Subject Test in the endorsement area. Must be completed BEFORE entering the alternate route program. Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: ‘Before entering an alternate route program, you must pass an assessment in your subject area.’

PROGRAM ENROLLMENT: Must enroll in and complete an MDE-approved alternate route program (TMI, MAT, MAPQT, ABCTE, iteach, TFA, TC, or the Five-Year Alternate Option).

ONE-YEAR INTERNSHIP: All pathways require a one-year teaching internship at an MDE-accredited school as the teacher of record. Pay is at the third-year teacher rate (for TMI).

FOUNDATIONS OF READING (Elementary/SpEd only): Required for all elementary education and special education candidates. Per MDE How to Apply: ‘Elementary Education Candidates only — you must submit the test score report from the appropriate testing company for the Foundations of Reading Assessment.’

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025) — all universal requirements; MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org) — Foundations of Reading for elementary; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — subject test before enrollment.

All Alternative Certification Pathways at a Glance

Pathway	Grade Level	Delivery	Pay During?	Timeline	Degree Earned?	Licensing Outcome
TMI (Teach MS Institute)	7-12 secondary only (NOT elementary K-6)	Fully online; University of MS	Yes — 3rd-yr rate during internship	13 wks (TMI 1) + 1 yr (TMI 2) = ~1.5 yrs	No degree; certification only	Provisional → Five-Year Standard License
MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching)	K-6 elementary (full degree) and 7-12 (varies); 4-6 (partial completion)	12 MS university programs; varies	Yes — during internship	1-2 years	YES — master’s degree + certification	5-yr Standard License
MAPQT (MS Alt. Path to Quality Teachers)	Secondary; varies by program	Varies: 3-wk summer, 8-wk online, or MAT hours	Yes — during internship	Summer/online training + 1 yr internship	Varies by track	5-yr Alternate Route License
ABCTE	Biology, Chemistry, English, Math, Physics (7-12)	Self-paced online; requires MS-approved partner	Yes — during internship	Self-paced + 1 yr internship	No degree	Initial 1-yr license → Standard License with MPB/MAT completion
iteach Mississippi	Secondary subjects	Online; flexible delivery	Yes — during internship	~1 year	No degree	Standard License upon completion
Teach for America (TFA)	K-12 high-need schools	Intensive summer institute + school year	Yes — teacher salary	2-year commitment	No degree (certification pathway)	Standard License pathway
Teacher Corps (TC)	Varies	University-based	Yes — during teaching	Varies	Varies	Standard License
Five-Year Alt. Certification Option	Varies	Varies	Varies	5 years	Varies	5-yr Alternate Certification
CTE Alternate Route	Secondary CTE areas	Varies	Yes — during teaching	Varies	No (associate degree min.)	CTE endorsement; 3-yr or 5-yr license

Sources: TMI programs page (tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html) — 7-12 only; 3rd-yr pay; provisional; 5-yr standard; 12 MAT programs; MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — all non-traditional types; teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025) — MAT/TMI/ABCTE/CTE; alleducationschools.com MS (Feb 2026) — MAT/MAPQT/TMI/ABCTE; research.com MS (March 2026) — iteach; ABCTE biology/chemistry/English/math/physics. 

Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI) — Online Secondary Route

The Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI) is Mississippi’s most widely recognized and accessible alternative certification program for secondary (7-12) teaching. Operated by the University of Mississippi through its Outreach division, TMI is a fully online MDE-accredited program specifically designed for college graduates seeking certification to teach in Mississippi secondary schools.

Per TMI (tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html): ‘Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI) — This is the category that contains the TMI Online program.’ TMI is one of the three core alternate route types approved by MDE, alongside MAT and ABCTE.

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative (April 2025): ‘Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI): Candidates may earn a one-year provisional license and complete the process to earn a five-year standard license. There is no degree associated with this pathway. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 2.75 in undergraduate coursework for the requested content area.’

Per research.com MS (March 2026): ‘Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI): A flexible program offering both online and in-person courses, TMI focuses on foundational teaching skills like lesson planning and classroom management.’

Why TMI Is the Most Popular Alternate Route

• Fully online — accessible from anywhere without relocating or attending campus
• Operated by a flagship state university (University of Mississippi) — strong MDE accreditation and state credibility
• Fastest secondary route — approximately 1.5 years from enrollment to standard license
• No degree requirement — certification-only pathway, lower cost than MAT
• Career services support included — resume, interview, and cover letter coaching
• Field experience during TMI 1 creates natural employment pipeline
• Paid at third-year teacher rate during the internship from Day 1 of teaching

Sources: TMI (tmi.olemiss.edu/about.html and programs.html); teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025); research.com MS (March 2026). 

TMI Structure: TMI 1 and TMI 2 in Detail

TMI 1: 13-Week Online Training

Per TMI Information Guide: TMI 1 is a 13-week (11-unit) fully online program covering classroom instruction, effective teaching strategies, classroom management, Mississippi College and Career-Ready Standards (MSCC-RS), planning and instructional methodologies, and formative and summative evaluation. Candidates spend approximately 6-8 hours per week and complete online discussions, weekly unit quizzes, and weekly written assignments or lesson plans.

TMI 1 also requires 60 hours of field experience/observation in a school. This field experience is a critical part of the program — it connects candidates to school environments and, per TMI: ‘Impressing personnel during field experience is the surest way to gain employment as an educator.’

After completing TMI 1 and passing all required Praxis tests, candidates receive the provisional (non-renewable) alternate route license and are eligible to apply for teaching positions.

TMI 2: The Teaching Internship Year

Per TMI (tmi.olemiss.edu/admission2.html): TMI 2 is the first full year of teaching at an MDE-accredited school, taken concurrently with final program components. Key features:

• Prerequisite: ‘The first step in enrolling in TMI 2 is to secure a teaching position at a MDE-accredited public or private school.’
• Paid at third-year teacher rate: ‘You will be paid based on your bachelor’s degree status as a third-year teacher.’ (TMI)
• Provisional license during internship: ‘The license held during the internship is provisional (good only in Mississippi and is non-renewable).’
• Mentoring: ‘Mentoring will be provided during the internship.’ (TMI)
• Career services: During TMI, candidates have the option to participate in a career services course improving resume, cover letter, social media, and interview skills.
• Outcome: ‘Upon completion of the internship, you are ready to apply for your five-year standard teaching license.’ (TMI)

Sources: TMI Information Guide (tmi.olemiss.edu/forms/TMI_InformationGuide_F20.pdf); TMI Admission 2 (tmi.olemiss.edu/admission2.html); TMI programs page.

TMI Admission Requirements and Subject Areas

TMI Admission Requirements — The Complete List

DEGREE: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (non-education field).

GPA: Minimum 2.75 GPA in undergraduate coursework for the requested content area. (teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt)

BASIC SKILLS: Passing Praxis Core scores, OR qualifying ACT, OR qualifying SAT, OR 3.0 overall GPA.

SUBJECT TEST: Passing score on the Praxis Subject Assessment for the desired endorsement area (7-12 subjects only). Must be passed BEFORE TMI enrollment.

ACCEPTED SUBJECT AREAS (7-12 only): Biology, Business Education, Chemistry, Economics, English, Family and Consumer Science, Marketing Education, Mathematics, Physics, Social Studies, Speech Communications. (Per TMI about page — 11 subject areas)

NOT ACCEPTED: K-6 Elementary Education; 4-6 Elementary Education. These are available only through MAT.

APPLICATION: tmi.olemiss.edu; contact [email protected] or 662-915-7314.

FIELD EXPERIENCE: 60 hours during TMI 1 in a school setting.

Sources: TMI (tmi.olemiss.edu/about.html); teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025).

TMI Licensing Outcomes: Provisional, Five-Year Standard

Stage	License Type	Validity	Portability	Requirements
After TMI 1 + Praxis tests	Provisional alternate route license	1 year	Mississippi only; non-renewable	Complete TMI 1; pass all required Praxis tests; apply through MDE/ELMS
During TMI 2 internship	Provisional alternate route license	1 year	Mississippi only; non-renewable	Employed at MDE-accredited school; enrolled in TMI 2; mentoring provided
After TMI 2 + full internship completion	Five-Year Standard Teaching License	5 years	Portable; renewable	Complete TMI 2; complete full internship year; apply through ELMS

Sources: TMI programs page (tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html) — all three stages; Jackson PS Alternate Route; MDE How to Apply — ‘if meets all requirements: 5-yr license; if not: 3-yr license.’ 

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Graduate Degree Route

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is the premier alternative certification pathway for candidates who want both a graduate degree and a teaching license, and the only pathway for elementary education (K-6) certification through the alternate route in Mississippi.

Per TMI programs page (tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html): ‘Master of Arts in Teaching Alternate Route (MAT) — Twelve programs, each overseen by its offering university.’ Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative (April 2025): ‘Candidates may also elect to pursue a master’s degree in teaching, education, or an academic subject that includes an approved certification program.’

Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: ‘While enrolled in the program, you must complete 6 semester hours of initial courses’ as the MAT track component of the alternate route framework. The MAT is also referenced as the required completion path for ABCTE candidates in Mississippi: ‘(For standard license) official MAT transcript reflecting completed nine (9) hours of approved Mississippi alternate route program initial graduate university course’ (MDE How to Apply page).

The Critical Elementary Education Distinction

Per TMI programs page: ‘Note: The alternate route for Elementary Education is available only through a MAT program (full degree completion required to secure the K-6; partial completion can lead to the 4-6 endorsement).’

This is the most important structural feature of the MAT pathway: if you want to teach elementary school (K-6) in Mississippi as an alternate route candidate, the MAT is your only option. TMI, ABCTE, MAPQT, and most other programs serve secondary (7-12) teachers. The MAT serves both elementary and secondary candidates.

Sources: TMI programs page (tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html) — 12 programs; elementary via MAT only; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — 6 MAT initial hours; MDE How to Apply — 9 MAT hours for standard ABCTE license. 

MAT Programs: The Only Route to Elementary Certification

The 12 MAT programs across Mississippi universities represent the breadth of the state’s graduate teacher preparation infrastructure. Per TMI: there are ‘Twelve programs, each overseen by its offering university.’ Each MAT program is independently administered, so specific requirements, timelines, and costs vary.

Key MAT-offering institutions include: University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, University of Southern Mississippi, Jackson State University, Alcorn State University, Delta State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Belhaven University (see Section 11), William Carey University, Tougaloo College, and others. Contact MDE at 601-359-3483 or visit mdek12.org for the complete current list.

• Common MAT framework: Graduate-level education coursework (typically 30-36 credit hours); content-specific pedagogy; supervised student teaching or teaching internship equivalent; Praxis testing; one-year internship.
• Degree plus license: Unlike TMI (certification only), the MAT awards a master’s degree alongside the standard teaching license — typically the Master of Arts in Teaching or Master of Education.
• Class AA advancement: The master’s degree earned through MAT qualifies the teacher for a Class AA license (higher salary lane on district salary schedules) rather than the Class A earned through certification-only pathways.
• Timeline: Typically 1-2 years, depending on the specific university program and the candidate’s prior coursework.

✔ MAT Financial Advantage: A teacher who earns a master’s degree through the MAT pathway enters teaching at the Class AA salary level rather than Class A. The annual salary difference between Class A and Class AA in most Mississippi districts is $2,000-$5,000+. Over a 25-year teaching career, this premium can represent $50,000-$125,000 in additional salary compared to a TMI-only route.

Sources: TMI programs — 12 programs; alleducationschools.com MS — MAT leading to master’s degree; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — 6 MAT initial hours; teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt — ‘MAT leads to master’s degree.’

Belhaven University MAT: Program Spotlight

Belhaven University (Jackson, MS) offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching alternate certification program that is a good example of the structure and requirements typical of MAT programs across Mississippi.

Per Belhaven University (belhaven.edu): ‘Prior to admission, applicants must pass a PRAXIS II Test in an approved content/subject area that aligns with the Belhaven University School of Education’s MAT program approved by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) to permit the School of Education to make recommendations for the MDE Three-Year Alternate License.’

• Pre-admission Praxis requirement: Must pass the Praxis II Subject Test before being admitted — this is a standard entry requirement that applies before beginning graduate coursework.
• Three-Year Alternate License: Belhaven issues recommendations to MDE for the ‘MDE Three-Year Alternate License’ — an intermediate credential during the MAT program period (aligned with the 3-year license issued when not all requirements are yet met per MDE How to Apply).
• Online delivery: Belhaven’s MAT program is available fully online, making it accessible to working professionals across Mississippi.
• Conditional admission: ‘Applicants who do not meet the regular admission requirements but show the potential for success in a program may be considered for admission. Conditional admission may be granted based on the decision of the admission committee.’ This provides a pathway for candidates who are close to but don’t fully meet standard admission criteria.
• Cost: ‘These rates are for August 1, 2025 through July 31, 2026’ — check belhaven.edu for current tuition rates, as this changes annually.

Source: Belhaven University MAT page (belhaven.edu/academics/education/online/alternate-teaching-certification.html) — all quotes.

Mississippi Alternative Path to Quality Teachers (MAPQT)

The Mississippi Alternative Path to Quality Teachers (MAPQT) is a distinct MDE-approved alternate route pathway listed among the four primary options by alleducationschools.com MS (February 5, 2026): ‘There are four approved alternative pathways: Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Mississippi Alternative Path to Quality Teachers (MAPQT), Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI), and American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE).’

Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: MAPQT is one of the training options within the broader alternate route system. The MAPQT pathway is specifically designed for candidates who have passed the required Praxis tests and need a structured training option to complete the alternate route certification process.

Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: ‘During the program, you must complete one of the following to obtain a five-year alternate route license: MAPQT 3-week summer training, MDE 8-week online training, or MAT 6 hours of initial graduate university courses.’ 

This framing reveals that MAPQT’s 3-week summer training is one of three equivalent completion options, positioned alongside the MDE’s own 8-week online training and the MAT initial coursework track.

Sources: alleducationschools.com MS (Feb 2026) — MAPQT as 4th approved pathway; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — ‘MAPQT 3-week summer training; MDE 8-week online; or MAT 6 hours’ as equivalent options.

MAPQT Training Options: 3-Week Summer, 8-Week Online, or 6 MAT Hours

The three training options for completing the alternate route certification — which are presented as equivalent by teaching-certification.com MS Alt — represent the range of preparation formats Mississippi has approved:

Three Equivalent Training Options for Alternate Route Certification

OPTION 1 — MAPQT 3-Week Summer Training: An intensive three-week summer training program operated under the MAPQT framework. Designed for candidates who can commit to an intensive, time-compressed summer preparation experience before their first year of teaching.

OPTION 2 — MDE 8-Week Online Training: An eight-week online training program offered directly through the Mississippi Department of Education. More spread out than the MAPQT summer option; accessible online for working professionals.

OPTION 3 — MAT 6 Hours of Initial Graduate University Courses: Six semester hours of initial graduate courses through a MAT program. The most academically intensive option — beginning a master’s degree program. This track naturally leads toward MAT degree completion and Class AA license status.

ALL THREE OPTIONS lead to the same alternate route certification outcome — the provisional license and eligibility for the one-year internship. The choice between them is based on the candidate’s scheduling preferences, learning style, and degree goals.

AFTER TRAINING: All three options then require completion of the full one-year teaching internship at an MDE-accredited school before the five-year standard license is issued.

Sources: teaching-certification.com MS Alt — ‘MAPQT 3-week summer training, MDE 8-week online training, or MAT 6 hours of initial graduate university courses’ as equivalent options; alleducationschools.com MS (Feb 2026) — MAPQT description.

Source: teaching-certification.com MS Alt — three equivalent training options. 

American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE)

The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) is a nationally recognized, self-paced online alternative certification provider that is MDE-approved in Mississippi. Unlike TMI and MAT (which are Mississippi-based institutions), ABCTE is a national organization headquartered in Washington, DC that operates in multiple states.

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative (April 2025): ‘American Board Certification for Teacher Excellence (ABCTE): A self-paced, online pathway tailored to high-need subjects. Candidates must partner with a Mississippi-approved provider to fulfill all certification requirements.’ 

Per teacher.org MS: ‘American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) is approved by the Mississippi Department of Education as a route to full teacher licensure. For this route, candidates need to hold a bachelor’s degree and a dedication to the field of education.’

ABCTE Subject Areas in Mississippi

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative: ‘American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) licensure is available in biology, chemistry, English, math, and physics for grades 7-12.’ ABCTE covers five specific high-need secondary subjects — making it a targeted option for candidates in these specific areas.

• Biology (7-12)

• Chemistry (7-12)

• English (7-12)

• Mathematics (7-12)

• Physics (7-12)

These five subjects align with Mississippi’s most critical secondary teacher shortage areas — STEM subjects and English language arts. ABCTE’s focus on high-need subjects reflects its national mission to address teacher shortages through flexible online preparation.

ABCTE and the Mississippi-Approved Partner Requirement

Per TMI programs page: ‘American Board for the Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) — One program, though it requires additional third-party interaction with a MAT program or other.’ 

This ‘additional third-party interaction’ is the Mississippi-approved provider partnership required to complete the Mississippi licensing process. ABCTE certification alone is not sufficient for a Mississippi teaching license — candidates must also complete requirements through a Mississippi-approved provider (typically a MAT program or MAPQT).

Contact ABCTE at 877-669-2228 and MDE at 601-359-3483 to identify the current Mississippi-approved partner providers for ABCTE candidates before beginning the program.

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025) — biology/chemistry/English/math/physics; TMI programs — ‘requires additional third-party interaction’; teacher.org MS — MDE-approved; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — ABCTE national office 877-669-2228. 

ABCTE Two-Stage Licensing: Initial and Standard

ABCTE certification in Mississippi involves a specific two-stage licensing process documented in the MDE How to Apply page. This is the most detailed licensing process of any Mississippi alternate route:

Initial (One-Year) License: ABCTE Stage 1

Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: ‘For a one-year license (required for the internship portion of this program), you must also pass the ABCTE subject exam in that area.’ And: ‘You must pass an assessment in your subject area to enter the program.’ The initial license requires: passing the general subject assessment (to enter ABCTE program) AND the ABCTE-specific subject exam (for the one-year internship license).

Per MDE How to Apply: ‘(For initial license) ABCTE subject area exam certificate’ is required documentation.

15.2 Standard License: ABCTE Stage 2

Per MDE How to Apply: ‘(For standard license) Mentorship Induction Evaluation form’ AND ‘(For standard license) Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB) e-Learning certificate OR official MAT transcript reflecting completed nine (9) hours of approved Mississippi alternate route program initial graduate university course.’

This means ABCTE candidates who want the standard (five-year) license must complete EITHER the MPB E-Learning course OR 9 hours of MAT graduate coursework in addition to the internship year. The MPB E-Learning option provides a less costly alternative to enrolling in a full MAT program for ABCTE candidates.

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — initial license: ABCTE exam certificate; standard license: MPB e-Learning OR 9 MAT hours; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — one-year license for internship; standard through MPB or MAT.

iteach Mississippi

iteach Mississippi is a national alternative certification provider that is MDE-approved in Mississippi, offering a flexible online program that allows candidates to earn certification while teaching. Per iteach.net: iteach provides Mississippi-specific admission requirements for its alternative teacher licensure program.

Per research.com MS (March 2026): ‘Alternative Certification Programs: Pathways like iteach or the American Board allow certification in roughly one year while teaching under provisional licensure.’ This positions iteach alongside ABCTE as a program that completes the certification process in approximately one year.

• Model: Online delivery; candidates typically begin teaching under a provisional license while completing iteach program requirements concurrently
• Mentorship: iteach provides mentorship support during the teaching period
• Secondary focus: iteach primarily serves secondary grade levels; verify current grade-level coverage at iteach.net
• National provider: iteach operates in multiple states; Mississippi-specific requirements may differ from other states’ iteach programs
• Contact: iteach.net/alternative-teacher-certification/mississippi-alternative-teacher-certification/ for Mississippi-specific admission requirements

⚠ Verify Current MDE Approval: Contact MDE at 601-359-3483 to confirm iteach Mississippi’s current MDE approval status and available subject areas before applying. Program approvals can change, and verification ensures your investment in the program will lead to a valid Mississippi license.

Sources: research.com MS (March 2026) — ‘iteach or American Board allow certification in ~1 year while teaching’; iteach.net MS admission requirements; teachms.org (Nov 2025) — iteach MS as approved program. 

Pathway 6: Teach for America (TFA) in Mississippi

Teach for America (TFA) is listed as an MDE-approved non-traditional route licensure type on the MDE How to Apply page. TFA has operated in Mississippi since 1993, primarily in the Mississippi Delta and other high-need communities.

Per alleducationschools.com MS (February 5, 2026): ‘Teach for America (TFA) has been working within the Mississippi region since 1993. In Mississippi, only 11 percent of students graduate college-ready, TFA wants to change that.’ Corps members make a two-year teaching commitment in high-need Mississippi schools, receive intensive training through TFA’s summer institute and ongoing professional development, and pursue certification through the alternate route framework while serving.

• Application: Apply at teachforamerica.org — TFA is highly selective nationally; Mississippi placements go through the standard TFA application process.
• Compensation: Corps members receive a full teacher’s salary from the school district employing them.
• Certification pathway: TFA corps members in Mississippi earn certification through the MDE alternate route framework while serving. The TFA credential itself leads to the Mississippi standard five-year license through MDE.
• Duration: Two-year commitment; certification earned during this period.
• Mississippi placement focus: Mississippi Delta, Jackson, and other high-need communities with documented teacher shortages.

Sources: MDE How to Apply — TFA listed as non-traditional route type; alleducationschools.com MS (Feb 2026) — TFA 1993; 11% college-ready; 2-year commitment.

Teacher Corps (TC)

Teacher Corps (TC) is listed alongside TFA on the MDE How to Apply page as a non-traditional route licensure type: ‘Non-traditional Route Licensure Types — Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI), Teach For America (TFA), Teacher Corps (TC), American Board Certification for Teacher Excellence (ABCTE), Five-Year Alternative Certification Option.’ 

Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: ‘For more information, call the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (General Information on TMI programs) Dr. Susan Lee 601-432-6522.’

Teacher Corps operates through Mississippi’s universities and provides an alternative certification pathway for teachers who complete training while working in Mississippi schools. The Teacher Corps model combines coursework, mentoring, and clinical teaching in high-need communities. Contact the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning at 601-432-6522 for current Teacher Corps program availability and requirements.

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — TC listed as non-traditional route; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — IHL contact for TC programs 601-432-6522. 

Five-Year Alternative Certification Option

The Five-Year Alternative Certification Option is listed as a distinct non-traditional route type on the MDE How to Apply page. Per MDE: ‘Non-traditional Route Licensure Types — […] Five-Year Alternative Certification Option.’

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative (April 2025): ‘Those with a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher (or equivalent ACT, SAT, or Praxis Core scores) who have passed the related Praxis Subject Test can earn a one-year license by [entering this] program.’ 

This pathway appears to be a direct-entry option for high-GPA candidates who have already passed the Praxis Subject Test and want to enter teaching while completing a structured five-year certification program.

Contact MDE Educator Licensure at 601-359-3483 for detailed information on the Five-Year Alternative Certification Option, its specific requirements, and how it differs from TMI, MAT, and the other alternate route pathways. This option may be particularly relevant for candidates with high academic credentials who want a more extended, less intensive preparation timeline.

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — ‘Five-Year Alternative Certification Option’; teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025) — ‘3.0 GPA or equivalent + passed Praxis Subject Test’ entry criteria.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Alternate Route

The CTE Alternate Route is Mississippi’s most accessible pathway for industry professionals who want to teach secondary Career and Technical Education subjects. Unlike all other alternate routes, the CTE pathway may accept an associate degree in some areas.

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative (April 2025): ‘Career and technical education (CTE) licensure is available in the secondary grades for candidates with an associate degree or higher and expertise in the content area to be taught.’ Per MDE How to Apply: ‘Please review the Career and Technical Education Guidelines for the specific requirements assigned to each CTE endorsement.’

CTE Alternate Route — Key Facts

MINIMUM DEGREE: Associate degree or higher in the CTE content area (the only alternate route not requiring a full bachelor’s degree).

INDUSTRY EXPERTISE: Must demonstrate expertise in the specific CTE content area. Occupational experience is typically documented through employment records and industry credentials.

GRADE LEVELS: Secondary (7-12) CTE teaching only.

LICENSING OUTCOME: Per MDE How to Apply: ‘If the applicant meets all requirements listed for the requested endorsement, the applicant will be issued a five-year license. If the applicant does not meet all requirements, the applicant may be issued a three-year license, and all requirements above must be satisfied prior to the ending date of that license.’

CTE-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS: Each CTE endorsement area has unique requirements — contact MDE at 601-359-3483 or review the CTE Guidelines for your specific area.

CTE SUBJECTS: Agricultural Science, Business Technology, Career Exploration, Cosmetology, Family and Consumer Science, Health Science Technology, Marketing, Technology Education, Trade and Industrial Education, and other MDE-approved CTE areas.

PROFESSIONAL LICENSE: Many CTE areas require holding the appropriate occupational license or industry certification (e.g., licensed electrician for electrical trades).

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025) — ‘associate degree or higher; secondary grades’; MDE How to Apply — CTE 3-yr or 5-yr license outcome; CTE Guidelines.

Universal Testing Requirements Across All Pathways

All Mississippi alternative certification pathways require passing standardized assessments before entering the program (for the Praxis Subject Test) or for program completion (for other tests). The testing framework is consistent across TMI, MAT, MAPQT, ABCTE, iteach, TFA, and the other alternate routes.

Test	Who Must Pass	When	Alternative / Notes
Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Reading, Writing, Mathematics)	All alternate route candidates	Before program enrollment	Qualifying ACT or SAT score; OR GPA of 3.0 or higher in undergraduate coursework; OR appropriate ACT/SAT equivalents (per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt)
Praxis II Subject Assessment (content-specific)	All alternate route candidates	Before program enrollment (‘you must pass an assessment in your subject area to enter the program’ — teaching-certification.com)	None — must pass appropriate subject assessment for the chosen alternate route program
ABCTE Subject Exam (ABCTE candidates only)	ABCTE candidates seeking the one-year internship license	After beginning ABCTE program; before internship	Required in addition to the general Praxis Subject Assessment for ABCTE candidates
Foundations of Reading	Elementary Education and Special Education candidates only	Before license issuance	PPR (Pathways to Proficient Reading) alternative: attempt Foundations of Reading + complete PPR with 80% minimum score

Sources: teaching-certification.com MS Alt — ‘must pass subject area assessment to enter program’; teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025) — Praxis Core + subject test; 3.0 GPA/ACT/SAT alternatives; MDE How to Apply — Foundations of Reading for elementary; ABCTE exam for initial license.

The Praxis Core: Basic Skills Assessment

The Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (or equivalent ACT/SAT/GPA score) is required for all Mississippi alternate route certification candidates. This is the basic skills gateway assessment — demonstrating reading, writing, and mathematics competency at the level necessary for professional teaching.

• Praxis Core subtests: Reading (5713), Writing (5723), and Mathematics (5733). All three must be passed for full credit.
• ACT alternative: A qualifying ACT composite or sub-score may substitute. Check the MDE Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 for current minimum scores.
• SAT alternative: A qualifying SAT score may substitute. Same MDE Guidelines reference.
• GPA alternative: Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt: ‘Candidates for Mississippi alternative teacher licensure must have a bachelor’s degree and meet one of the following testing requirements: Have a passing score on the Praxis Core, or have a GPA of 3.0 or higher (or equivalent ACT, SAT, or Praxis Core scores).’
• Registration: Register at ets.org/praxis — select Mississippi and the appropriate Praxis Core subtests.

✔ Check Your Existing Scores First: If you took the ACT or SAT for college admission, you may already qualify for the basic skills requirement without additional testing. Request your official scores and compare them to the MDE’s current minimums in the Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 before registering for the Praxis Core. This can save significant time and testing fees.

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt (April 2025) — ‘3.0 GPA or equivalent’; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024 — ACT/SAT minimums; ets.org/praxis. 

Praxis II Subject Area Tests for Alternate Route Candidates

The Praxis II Subject Assessment must be passed BEFORE entering an alternate route program — not after, and not during. Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: ‘Before entering an alternate route program, you must pass an assessment in your subject area.’ 

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt: candidates must pass the Praxis II Subject Test ‘in their desired endorsement area prior to joining a program.’

Subject Area	Praxis Subject Assessment (Examples)	Grade Level	Alt Route Programs Accepting
Biology	Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge (5235)	7-12	TMI, ABCTE, MAT
Chemistry	Praxis Chemistry: Content Knowledge (5245)	7-12	TMI, ABCTE, MAT
Mathematics	Praxis Mathematics: Content Knowledge (5161)	7-12	TMI, ABCTE, MAT
English/Language Arts	Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (5038)	7-12	TMI, ABCTE, MAT
Physics	Praxis Physics: Content Knowledge (5265)	7-12	TMI, ABCTE, MAT
Social Studies	Praxis Social Studies: Content Knowledge (5081)	7-12	TMI, MAT
Business Education	Praxis Business Education (5101)	7-12	TMI, MAT
Family and Consumer Science	Praxis Family and Consumer Sciences (5122)	7-12	TMI, MAT
Elementary Education (4-6 or K-6)	Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (5001 series)	K-6 or 4-6	MAT ONLY (TMI/ABCTE cannot certify elementary)
Special Education	Praxis SpEd Core Knowledge (5354) + Foundations of Reading	K-12	MAT (and similar programs)

Sources: TMI about page — 11 accepted subject areas; teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alt — ABCTE subjects; teaching-certification.com MS Alt — ‘must pass subject assessment before entering’; ets.org/praxis/ms/overview. 

Foundations of Reading (Elementary and SpEd Candidates)

Elementary Education and Special Education candidates in Mississippi’s alternate route framework must pass the Foundations of Reading assessment in addition to the standard Praxis requirements. This reflects Mississippi’s commitment to evidence-based, science-of-reading instruction.

Per MDE How to Apply: ‘Elementary Education Candidates only — you must submit the test score report from the appropriate testing company for the Foundations of Reading Assessment and, if applicable, the Pathway to Proficient Reading documentation showing completion of the course with a passing score of 80%.’

• Standard option: Pass the Mississippi Foundations of Reading Assessment with a qualifying score.
• PPR alternative: Per teachms.org (November 2025): ‘Option 2: Attempt the Foundations of Reading and complete Pathways to Proficient Reading (PPR) with a minimum score of 80%.’ This alternative allows candidates who attempt but don’t pass the Foundations of Reading to complete the PPR course as a substitute.
• In addition to Praxis: The Foundations of Reading is required IN ADDITION to the standard Praxis Elementary Education Subject Assessment (e.g., Praxis 5018 for elementary education) — not instead of it.
• Elementary access via MAT only: Candidates needing Foundations of Reading are pursuing elementary certification — which requires the MAT route (not TMI or ABCTE) for alternate route candidates.

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — Foundations of Reading documentation required; PPR documentation if applicable; teachms.org (Nov 2025) — PPR option with 80% minimum.

The One-Year Internship: Requirements and Pay

Every Mississippi alternate route certification pathway requires a one-year teaching internship at an MDE-accredited school. This internship is the capstone experience that bridges training and professional licensure.

• Full year: ‘The internship is your first full year of teaching at a Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) accredited school.’ (TMI programs page) — not a semester, not a practicum, but a full calendar year of employment as the teacher of record.
• MDE-accredited school: Must be a Mississippi public or private school that is accredited by MDE. Verify any school’s accreditation status with MDE before accepting a position.
• Mentoring: ‘Mentoring will be provided during the internship.’ (TMI) — all alternate route programs include a formal mentoring component during the internship year.
• Provisional license during internship: ‘The license held during the internship is provisional (good only in Mississippi and is non-renewable).’ (TMI programs page) — the provisional license does not transfer to other states and cannot be renewed; it must be converted to the five-year standard license.
• Pay — third-year teacher rate (TMI): ‘You will be paid based on your bachelor’s degree status as a third-year teacher.’ (TMI programs page) — from Day 1 of the internship, the teacher earns a professional salary. This third-year rate applies specifically to TMI; other programs may have varying pay structures — verify with the specific program and employing district.
• Securing employment: The internship requires being hired by an MDE-accredited school. TMI provides career services (resume, cover letter, interview coaching) to help candidates secure positions. Field experience during training is explicitly described as a hiring opportunity: ‘Impressing personnel during field experience is the surest way to gain employment as an educator.’ (TMI)

Sources: TMI programs page (tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html) — ‘first full year; provisional; paid as 3rd-yr teacher; mentoring; upon completion: apply for 5-yr standard’; Jackson PS Alternate Route — mentorship and induction program.

MDE Application: How to Apply and What to Submit

All Mississippi teaching license applications — including alternate route licenses — are submitted to MDE through the ELMS (Educator Licensure Management System). The MDE How to Apply page (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) specifies the required documentation for each license stage.

Standard Documents Required for All Alternate Route Applicants

• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
• Praxis Core score reports (or ACT/SAT documentation)
• Praxis Subject Assessment score reports
• Institutional Program Verification (IPV) from the alternate route program (when applicable)
• Foundations of Reading score report (elementary/SpEd candidates) 

ABCTE-Specific Documentation

Per MDE How to Apply:

• For initial (one-year) license: ABCTE subject area exam certificate
• For standard license: Mentorship Induction Evaluation form
• For standard license: Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB) e-Learning certificate OR official MAT transcript reflecting completed 9 hours of approved Mississippi alternate route program initial graduate university courses

Contact Information for Application

• ELMS (online application): sso.mde.ms.gov/Login/Login.aspx or through mdek12.org/licensure/
• Mail: Mississippi Department of Education, Office of Educator Licensure, P.O. Box 771, Jackson, MS 39205-0771
• Address: Mississippi Department of Education, 359 N. West St., Jackson, MS 3920
• Phone: 601-359-3483 (Educator Licensure); 601-359-3513 (General Information)

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — all documentation requirements; MDE address and phone; ABCTE-specific documents.

Licensing Outcomes: Three-Year vs. Five-Year License

Mississippi’s alternate route system produces different license durations based on whether the candidate meets all requirements at the time of license application. Per MDE How to Apply: ‘Please review the Career and Technical Education Guidelines for the specific requirements assigned to each CTE endorsement. 

Note: If the applicant meets all requirements listed for the requested endorsement, the applicant will be issued a five-year license. If the applicant does not meet all requirements, the applicant may be issued a three-year license, and all requirements above must be satisfied prior to the ending date of that license.’

• Five-year standard license: Issued when the candidate meets ALL requirements at the time of application. This is the standard outcome for candidates who have completed all training, passed all tests, and completed the internship successfully.
• Three-year license: Issued when the candidate has not yet met all requirements — most commonly when a candidate has completed the internship but still needs to complete some program component (e.g., ABCTE candidates who have done the internship but haven’t yet completed the MPB e-Learning or MAT hours). All remaining requirements must be completed before the three-year license expires; otherwise, the license cannot be renewed.
• Three-year is a deadline, not a gift: Per Belhaven University’s description of its MAT recommendation: ‘the MDE Three-Year Alternate License’ is an intermediate credential during the program. The three-year period must be used to complete all outstanding requirements — it is not a second internship window.

⚠ The Three-Year License Has Hard Requirements: If issued a three-year license, ALL outstanding requirements must be satisfied before the license expires. There is no extension mechanism documented in MDE sources. Build a completion plan on Day 1 of the three-year period and execute it systematically.

Sources: MDE How to Apply (mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/) — ‘five-year if all requirements met; three-year if not’; Belhaven University — ‘MDE Three-Year Alternate License.’

Standard License vs. Alternate Route License

A common question from alternate route candidates is whether the license they earn is somehow different from or inferior to the license earned by traditionally trained teachers. The answer is clear:

• Same five-year standard license: The five-year standard teaching license earned upon completing an alternate route program is exactly the same credential as the one earned by traditionally trained teachers. There is no ‘alternate route’ marker or limitation on the license itself.
• Same renewal requirements: Alternate route license holders renew using the same requirements as traditionally licensed teachers (3 semester hours + 5 CEUs, or 6 semester hours, or 5 CEUs for Class AA+, etc.).
• Same portability: The five-year standard license is fully portable to other states through reciprocity frameworks.
• Same salary treatment: The license class (A, AA, etc.) determines salary placement — not the pathway used to earn the license. A TMI-certified teacher and a traditionally trained teacher with the same degree hold identical Class A licenses.
• The ONLY difference — provisional period: During the internship, the holder has a provisional license rather than a standard one. The provisional is Mississippi-only and non-renewable. Upon completing the internship and earning the standard license, this distinction disappears entirely.

Sources: TMI programs page — ‘five-year standard teaching license upon completion; same as traditional’; MDE (mdek12.org); teachms.org — standard license portable and upgradeable.

Costs and Financial Considerations

Per research.com MS (March 2026): ‘Nontraditional routes such as MAT, TMI, and ABCTE enable career changers to teach while completing training, with total costs typically ranging from $7,000 to $22,000 depending on the route.’

Cost Category	TMI	MAT (typical)	ABCTE	Notes
Program fees / tuition	Lower (certification-only program; program fees only)	Higher (university tuition; varies by institution; full master’s degree)	Self-paced; ABCTE exam fees + partner program fees	MAT costs vary widely by university; online vs. on-campus
Praxis test fees	$60-$200 per test (2-3 tests)	Same	Same + ABCTE subject exam fee	All alternate route candidates need Praxis Core + Subject Test
Compensation during internship	YES — third-year teacher rate from Day 1	YES — teacher salary during internship year	YES — teacher salary	Offset: internship income reduces net cost substantially
Total range (research.com)	$7,000 – $22,000 (depending on route)	$7,000 – $22,000 (on higher end for MAT)	$7,000 – $22,000	All routes within this range per research.com

The third-year teacher salary during the internship substantially offsets program costs. A candidate earning $40,000-$45,000 during the internship year while paying $10,000-$15,000 in program costs has a net first-year income of $25,000-$35,000+ — far better than a traditional graduate program where the student pays tuition AND has no teaching income.

Sources: research.com MS (March 2026) — ‘$7,000 to $22,000 total costs’; TMI — third-year teacher rate.

Choosing the Right Alternate Route

Your Situation	Best Pathway	First Step
BA/BS in secondary subject (7-12); want to start teaching as quickly as possible; cost-conscious	TMI — fastest secondary route; certification-only; fully online	Pass Praxis Core + Praxis Subject Test → apply to TMI at tmi.olemiss.edu
Want to teach elementary school (K-6); have BA in any field	MAT — ONLY alternate route to K-6 elementary certification	Identify Mississippi university with K-6 MAT program; contact MDE for current list (601-359-3483)
Want a graduate degree + certification; comfortable with longer timeline	MAT — earn master’s degree + Class AA license	Compare all 12 Mississippi MAT programs; factor cost, online availability, and subject area
Secondary STEM or English; prefer self-paced online learning	ABCTE — self-paced; biology, chemistry, English, math, or physics only	Visit americanboard.org; call ABCTE at 877-669-2228; confirm MS-approved partner provider with MDE
Recent graduate committed to high-need schools for 2 years	Teach for America — select cohort; mission-driven	Apply at teachforamerica.org; verify MS placement availability
Want fastest route; secondary; prefer summer intensive training	MAPQT 3-week summer option	Contact MDE (601-359-3483) for current MAPQT providers and summer schedule
Industry professional with associate degree; want to teach vocational/technical subjects	CTE Alternate Route — associate degree accepted	Contact MDE (601-359-3483); review CTE Guidelines for your specific area; verify occupational license requirements
High GPA (3.0+); passed Praxis Subject Test; prefer extended 5-year program timeline	Five-Year Alternative Certification Option	Contact MDE (601-359-3483) for specifics on this pathway

Mississippi Alternative Teacher Certification: FAQs

What are the main alternative certification programs in Mississippi?

Per MDE and the sources reviewed, Mississippi has nine alternative certification pathways: (1) Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI) — fully online, secondary 7-12 only, operated by the University of Mississippi; (2) Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) — 12 university programs, the only route to K-6 elementary alternate route certification; (3) Mississippi Alternative Path to Quality Teachers (MAPQT); (4) American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) — self-paced online, biology/chemistry/English/math/physics only; (5) iteach Mississippi; (6) Teach for America; (7) Teacher Corps; (8) the Five-Year Alternative Certification Option; and (9) the CTE Alternate Route for vocational subjects.

Can I teach elementary school through the alternate route in Mississippi?

Yes, but only through a MAT program. Per TMI: ‘The alternate route for Elementary Education is available only through a MAT program (full degree completion required to secure the K-6; partial completion can lead to the 4-6 endorsement).’ TMI, ABCTE, MAPQT, and most other alternate route programs serve only secondary (7-12) candidates. Elementary (K-6) alternate route certification requires completing a full Master of Arts in Teaching degree from one of Mississippi’s 12 MAT programs.

Do I need to pass the Praxis before applying to an alternate route program?

Yes. Per teaching-certification.com MS Alt: ‘Before entering an alternate route program, you must pass an assessment in your subject area.’ The Praxis II Subject Assessment must be passed BEFORE enrolling in the alternate route program. Additionally, you must meet the basic skills requirement (Praxis Core, OR qualifying ACT, OR qualifying SAT, OR 3.0 GPA). The sequence is: pass tests first → enroll in program → complete training → earn provisional license → complete internship → receive five-year standard license.

How much do alternate route teachers earn during the internship?

Per TMI: ‘You will be paid based on your bachelor’s degree status as a third-year teacher.’ During the one-year teaching internship, TMI alternate route teachers receive a full professional teacher’s salary at the same rate as a traditionally trained teacher with 3 years of experience at the bachelor’s degree salary lane. This is not a stipend or reduced pay — it is a professional teacher’s salary. This compensation structure makes the alternate route financially viable for career changers.

Is the license I earn through an alternate route different from a traditional license?

No. The five-year standard teaching license earned through any MDE-approved alternate route program is identical to the one earned by traditionally trained teachers. There is no ‘alternate route’ designation on the license. The license class (A, AA, etc.) is determined by the highest degree held — a TMI-certified teacher with a bachelor’s degree holds a Class A license, the same as a traditionally trained teacher with the same degree. The license is renewable every 5 years using the same requirements as all other Mississippi standard licenses.

How long does alternate route certification take in Mississippi?

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com, MS Alt: ‘Mississippi alternative teacher preparation and training programs can be completed in as little as one year.’ The TMI pathway is approximately 1.5 years: 13 weeks for TMI 1 + one full year of internship (TMI 2). MAT programs typically take 1-2 years for the full master’s degree. ABCTE and iTEACH can be completed in approximately one year while teaching under a provisional license. CTE pathways vary by area. All pathways require a minimum of one year of teaching internship before the standard license is issued.

Official Sources and Further Reading

Primary MDE Sources

•       MDE Alternate Route Programs page: mdek12.org/licensure/alternate/ — three core methods: TMI, MAT, ABCTE
•       MDE How to Apply for a License (critical source): mdek12.org/licensure/how-to-apply-for-a-license/ — non-traditional route types: MAT, TMI, TFA, TC, ABCTE, 5-yr option; documentation requirements; ABCTE initial and standard license docs; CTE 3-yr vs. 5-yr license; Foundations of Reading for elementary
•       MDE Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 (August 2024): mdek12.org — definitive regulatory document; all alternate route requirements
•       MDE Educator Licensure Phone: 601-359-3483
•       MDE General Information: 601-359-3513
•       MDE Mailing Address: P.O. Box 771, Jackson, MS 39205-0771 / 359 N. West St.
•       IHL (MS Institutions of Higher Learning — TMI/MAT programs): Dr. Susan Lee, 601-432-6522 

TMI Sources

•       TMI Program Types: tmi.olemiss.edu/programs.html — 3 alternate route types; 12 MAT programs; 3rd-yr pay; provisional; 5-yr standard; elementary via MAT only
•       TMI About/Subject Areas: tmi.olemiss.edu/about.html — 11 accepted 7-12 subjects; NOT elementary
•       TMI Admission 2: tmi.olemiss.edu/admission2.html — secure job first; career services; 3rd-yr teacher rate
•       TMI Contact: [email protected]; 662-915-7314

Program-Specific Sources

•       Belhaven University MAT: belhaven.edu/academics/education/online/alternate-teaching-certification.html — pre-admission Praxis II; 3-yr alternate license; online delivery; conditional admission; current tuition rates
•       ABCTE: americanboard.org; ABCTE national: 877-669-2228
•       iteach Mississippi: iteach.net/alternative-teacher-certification/mississippi-alternative-teacher-certification/
•       Teach for America Mississippi: teachforamerica.org

Reference Sources

•       teachercertificationdegrees.com MS Alternative (April 15, 2025): teachercertificationdegrees.com/certification/mississippi-alternative/ — MAT/TMI/ABCTE/CTE; BA required; Praxis Core + 3.0 GPA alternatives; 2.75 major GPA for TMI; ABCTE subjects; 1-year internship; CTE associate degree; five-year alt cert option (‘3.0 GPA + passed Praxis Subject Test’)
•       teaching-certification.com MS Alternative (2022): teaching-certification.com/teaching/mississippi-alternative-teaching-certification/ — ‘pass subject assessment before entering program’; MAPQT 3-wk summer, MDE 8-wk online, or MAT 6 hrs equivalent options; ABCTE one-year license requires ABCTE subject exam; IHL 601-432-6522; ABCTE 877-669-2228
•       alleducationschools.com Mississippi (February 5, 2026): alleducationschools.com/teacher-certification/mississippi/ — four approved pathways: MAT, MAPQT, TMI, ABCTE; TFA 1993; 11% college-ready
•       research.com Mississippi (March 19, 2026): research.com/careers/teacher-certification-types-and-requirements-in-mississippi — iteach; ABCTE; ‘$7,000 to $22,000 total cost range’; structured internships; ‘roughly one year while teaching under provisional licensure’
•       teacher.org Mississippi: teacher.org/state/mississippi/ — ABCTE MDE-approved; TMI; TFA; Praxis II required for alternate route
•       teachms.org Mississippi Alternate Route (November 3, 2025): teachms.org/teaching-pathways/alternate-route/ — iteach MS; ABCTE; TFA; TMI; PPR option for Foundations of Reading

Mississippi Alternative Teacher Certification: Conclusion

Mississippi’s alternative teacher certification ecosystem offers one of the most diverse arrays of non-traditional pathways in the South — nine distinct routes serving different candidate profiles, subject areas, and career goals. 

The core framework is consistent: hold a bachelor’s degree, pass the required Praxis tests before enrollment, complete a program’s training or coursework, serve a paid one-year internship at an MDE-accredited school, and earn the same five-year standard teaching license as traditionally trained teachers.

The choice of pathway is primarily driven by two factors: grade level and degree goals. For secondary (7-12) teaching without a desire for a master’s degree, TMI’s 13-week online program is the fastest and most accessible route. For elementary (K-6) teaching or for candidates who want a master’s degree alongside certification, the MAT is the required path. 

For self-paced learners in STEM or English, ABCTE provides flexibility with a two-stage licensing process. For mission-driven candidates committed to high-need communities, TFA provides the most structured support structure. For industry professionals in vocational fields with an associate degree, the CTE route is the unique gateway that no other pathway can match.

The financial structure of Mississippi’s alternate route system is one of its greatest strengths: the third-year teacher salary during the internship offsets program costs, making the transition to teaching economically viable even for candidates leaving higher-paying careers. 

With costs ranging from $7,000 to $22,000 and salary partially offsetting that investment from Day 1 of teaching, Mississippi’s alternative certification is genuinely accessible to career changers who bring valuable real-world expertise to the state’s classrooms.

Begin your Mississippi alternative certification journey at mdek12.org/licensure/alternate/. For secondary subjects, contact TMI at tmi.olemiss.edu or 662-915-7314. For elementary certification, contact MDE (601-359-3483) for the current list of MAT programs. For ABCTE, call the national office at 877-669-2228 and verify your Mississippi-approved partner with MDE. 

MDE  |  mdek12.org/licensure/alternate  |  601-359-3483  |  TMI  |  tmi.olemiss.edu  |  662-915-7314  |  ABCTE: 877-669-2228  |  IHL: 601-432-6522  |  iteach.net