How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Virginia 2025

Knowing how to become a middle school teacher is the first step toward earning your license in Virginia. From completing a teacher preparation program to passing subject-specific exams, the process ensures you're ready to teach grades six through eight. This guide explains each requirement clearly so you can move forward with confidence and explore your options at the state and national levels.

What Does a Middle School Teacher Do?

Middle school teachers help students in grades six through eight develop academic skills and personal growth during a key transitional period. These educators specialize in a subject area such as math, science, or English and create lesson plans that meet Virginia's Standards of Learning. They also play a vital role in supporting students' social and emotional development.

The role requires both classroom management and content expertise. Middle school teacher educational requirements include a degree, teacher preparation program, and a license to teach in Virginia.

• plan and deliver subject-specific lessons aligned to state standards
• manage classroom behavior and create a supportive environment
• assess student progress and provide feedback
• communicate with parents and caregivers
• adapt instruction for students with different learning needs
• incorporate educational technology in the classroom
• participate in staff meetings and professional development
• support school events and extracurricular activities

How To Become a Middle School Teacher in Virginia

Becoming a middle school teacher in Virginia requires meeting both educational and licensure requirements set by the Virginia Department of Education. You'll need to complete an approved teacher preparation program, pass required exams, and apply for licensure. For more about the requirements to become a middle school teacher, keep reading.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree and Complete a State-Approved Educator Preparation Program

You must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Most future teachers choose to major in education or in the subject they plan to teach, such as mathematics or English. Your degree must include coursework in child development, instructional strategies, classroom management, and assessment.

Virginia requires completion of a state-approved educator preparation program. These programs include student teaching, where you'll spend time in a real classroom under the supervision of a licensed teacher. If you already have a degree, you can pursue a post-baccalaureate or alternative certification program.

Step 2: Pass the Required Licensure Exams

Before you can earn your teaching license in Virginia, you must pass several standardized assessments. These include the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA), which evaluates reading and writing skills needed for all educators. You'll also need to pass the Praxis Subject Assessment for your teaching content area.

Some programs may require you to take the Praxis Core or equivalent basic skills exams as an admission requirement. Testing requirements ensure you are ready to teach both content knowledge and instructional skills to students in your chosen subject and grade level.

Step 3: Apply for a Virginia Teaching License

After completing your degree and passing the required exams, you can apply for a Virginia teaching license. First-time applicants typically pursue a Collegiate Professional License, which is valid for ten years. The application process involves submitting official transcripts, test scores, verification of completed teacher preparation, and a completed application form.

You'll also need to submit a fee and undergo a fingerprint-based background check. The Virginia Department of Education provides a step-by-step guide and online application portal. Your license must be endorsed in the specific subject area you are qualified to teach, such as middle grades English or science.

Step 4: Complete Additional Training and Certifications

Virginia requires additional training in topics such as child abuse recognition, dyslexia awareness, and emergency first aid/CPR. These training components are typically embedded in educator preparation programs, but you may need to complete them separately if you're pursuing an alternative pathway.

You'll also need to meet technology standards for instructional personnel and demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools for teaching and learning. Once all these conditions are met, you'll be fully qualified to begin teaching in Virginia public schools.

Step 5: Begin Teaching and Maintain Your License

Once licensed, you can begin teaching in a Virginia public or accredited private school. New teachers often work under mentorship during their first year and receive ongoing evaluations. Your initial license is valid for ten years, but renewal requires continuing professional development.

Virginia requires all teachers to complete 270 professional development points during each 10-year renewal cycle. These points may be earned through workshops, graduate coursework, instructional improvement projects, or leadership roles. Staying current in your field ensures that you continue to meet Virginia's high standards for educators.

Middle School Requirements By Subject

In Virginia, middle school teachers must be licensed in a specific subject area. Each endorsement has unique coursework and testing requirements. While all teachers complete a state-approved preparation program, the exact steps can vary depending on the subject you want to teach. Below are summaries of the pathways for four core subject areas.

How To Become a Middle School Math Teacher

To teach middle school math in Virginia, you'll need an endorsement in Mathematics - Algebra I or Mathematics (6-8). This typically requires a bachelor's degree that includes 21 semester hours of math coursework, covering topics like algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics.

In addition to your coursework, you must pass the Praxis Middle School Mathematics exam. As with all endorsements, you'll also complete a teacher preparation program and meet other licensure requirements such as the VCLA and CPR/first aid certification.

How To Become a Middle School Science Teacher

Future science teachers must earn an endorsement in Middle Education Science (6-8). This requires at least 21 semester hours in science content, including courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/space science.

You'll need to pass the Praxis Middle School Science exam to demonstrate subject-area competency. Alongside this, you must meet all general teaching requirements in Virginia, including student teaching, educator preparation coursework, and training in technology and child development.

How To Become a Middle School History Teacher

To become a middle school history teacher, you'll pursue an endorsement in Middle Education History and Social Sciences (6-8). You must complete 21 semester hours in content areas such as U.S. history, world history, geography, civics, and economics.

The required Praxis exam is Middle School Social Studies. After passing, you'll also need to finish a state-approved teacher preparation program and fulfill other licensure criteria, including the VCLA and child abuse recognition training.

How To Become a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher

To teach English language arts in middle school, you'll need an endorsement in Middle Education English (6-8). Your degree must include at least 21 semester hours in areas such as composition, American and British literature, grammar, and reading instruction.

Passing the Praxis Middle School English Language Arts exam is required for licensure. As with other subjects, you must complete a teacher preparation program and meet Virginia's licensure standards, including CPR training and proficiency in instructional technology.

1. George Mason University

George Mason University offers undergraduate and graduate pathways for aspiring middle school teachers through its secondary education program. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in education or a Master of Education in secondary education with licensure options in subjects like English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Programs include coursework in teaching strategies, adolescent development, and curriculum design aligned with Virginia's Standards of Learning.

Fieldwork is a core part of the curriculum, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in local classrooms. Mason's partnerships with public schools across Northern Virginia give students access to diverse teaching environments. Graduates are eligible for licensure in grades six through twelve and receive support with test preparation and job placement.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,220 (in-state); $38,688 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers multiple degree pathways for future middle school teachers, including a Master of Science in Education with initial licensure and a Bachelor of Science in middle school education. Students can specialize in core content areas such as English, mathematics, science, or social studies, preparing them to teach grades six through eight in Virginia public schools.

Programs include coursework in instructional strategies, adolescent development, and assessment, along with extensive field experiences in real classrooms. The licensure track meets Virginia's teacher certification requirements and includes support for passing required exams. Both in-person and online options are available to accommodate different student needs.

• Estimated tuition cost: $486 per credit hour (in-state); $1,334.50 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers a Bachelor of Science in secondary education that prepares students to teach in grades six through twelve. The program includes options for content-area licensure in subjects such as English, mathematics, history/social science, and science, making it a strong choice for aspiring middle school teachers. Coursework covers instructional methods, adolescent learning, and classroom technology, with a strong emphasis on culturally responsive teaching.

Students complete practicum placements and a semester-long student teaching experience in Virginia schools. The program is designed to meet state licensure requirements and includes preparation for the VCLA and Praxis subject exams. VCU also offers advising and career services to support students through licensure and job placement.

• Estimated tuition cost: $17,240 (in-state); $40,404 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. James Madison University

James Madison University offers a five-year pathway to licensure through its Bachelor of Science in middle grades education and Master of Arts in Teaching program. This dual-degree option prepares students to teach grades six through eight in content areas such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Undergraduate coursework focuses on content knowledge and foundations of education, while the graduate year emphasizes instructional methods and classroom practice.

Students gain extensive experience through clinical placements and a full semester of student teaching in middle school classrooms. The program is aligned with Virginia licensure requirements and supports students in passing the necessary state exams. Graduates leave fully licensed and well-prepared for teaching careers in Virginia schools.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,300 (in-state); $31,906 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. University of Mary Washington

The University of Mary Washington offers an undergraduate initial licensure program that prepares students to teach in grades six through twelve. Middle school teacher candidates complete a major in their content area--such as English, mathematics, science, or history--alongside education courses focused on teaching methods, adolescent development, and assessment. The program is designed for students pursuing both subject expertise and practical teaching experience.

Field experiences begin early and culminate in a full semester of student teaching in Virginia public schools. The program meets all state licensure requirements and includes preparation for the VCLA and Praxis exams. Students benefit from small class sizes, mentorship from experienced faculty, and partnerships with local school divisions.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,390 (in-state); $22,965 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

Middle School Teacher Salary in Virginia

The average middle school teacher salary in Virginia is $66,720 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This wage varies by location, experience, and education level. For example, teachers in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro area typically earn more due to the higher cost of living, while salaries in rural districts may fall below the state average.

Many teachers increase their earnings over time by gaining advanced degrees or taking on additional responsibilities such as department leadership or extracurricular supervision. Public school salaries are often negotiated through district contracts and union agreements.

Job Outlook for Middle School Teachers in Virginia

Employment of middle school teachers is expected to decline by 1% from 2023 to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, about 41,400 job openings are projected each year nationwide due to retirements and career changes.

In Virginia, steady demand is expected as school divisions continue to replace departing teachers and support specialized programs in middle grades. While overall employment may decrease slightly, opportunities remain strong for new teachers in high-need subject areas like math, science, and special education.

Financial Aid for Middle School Teacher Programs

Virginia offers a range of financial aid options for students pursuing a degree in education. Future teachers can apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Many online colleges that accept financial aid offer accredited teaching degrees that qualify for FAFSA funding.

In addition to federal aid, Virginia residents may qualify for state-specific programs like the Virginia Teaching Scholarship Loan Program, which supports students planning to teach in shortage areas. You can also explore need-based grants and tuition assistance through the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). Some universities offer institutional scholarships for education majors, so be sure to check with your school's financial aid office for available options.

FAQs About Becoming a Middle School Teacher in Virginia

If you're planning to become a middle school teacher in Virginia, you may have questions about how long the process takes, alternative certification options, or how to afford your education. The answers below can help you better understand your pathway into the classroom.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Middle School Teacher in Virginia?

Most middle school teachers in Virginia spend about four to five years preparing for licensure. This includes earning a bachelor's degree, completing a state-approved educator preparation program, and fulfilling student teaching requirements. You'll also need to pass the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) and a Praxis subject exam.

After meeting all training and testing requirements, you can apply for a teaching license. Some accelerated or alternative programs may shorten this timeline for individuals with prior degrees or experience.

Can You Become a Teacher in Virginia Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes, it's possible to become a teacher in Virginia without holding a traditional teaching degree. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another subject, you can qualify through an alternative licensure route. These programs provide the necessary coursework and student teaching experience to meet state standards. You may be eligible for a provisional license that lets you begin teaching while completing the remaining requirements. This pathway is often used by career changers or professionals entering the education field.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Teacher?

The fastest way to become a teacher in Virginia is through an alternative licensure program, especially if you already have a bachelor's degree. These programs may allow you to teach under a provisional license while completing coursework and mentorship requirements. Some can be finished in one to two years, depending on your schedule and subject area. Many are offered online or in hybrid formats, making them a flexible option for adults who want to enter the classroom quickly.

How Can I Become a Teacher in Virginia for Free?

You can reduce or eliminate the cost of becoming a teacher in Virginia by applying for grants, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs. Options like the Virginia Teaching Scholarship Loan Program or TEACH Grants support students who plan to teach in high-need schools or subject areas. Completing the FAFSA gives you access to federal financial aid. You can also explore online colleges that accept financial aid for low-cost degree pathways that meet licensure requirements.

Can You Start Teaching With an Associate Degree?

You cannot become a licensed teacher in Virginia with only an associate degree. State law requires all public school teachers to hold a bachelor's degree and complete an approved educator preparation program. However, an associate degree can help you start a career in education as a paraprofessional, teacher's aide, or instructional assistant. These roles offer valuable experience and can be a stepping stone to a teaching license if you later complete a bachelor's and meet certification standards.

Explore Teaching Degrees in Virginia

Start your journey toward becoming a licensed teacher by exploring accredited teaching degree programs in Virginia. Learn.org features colleges that offer affordable, flexible options to help you reach your career goals.