Top 10 Middle School Teacher Certifications

Certifications are important for middle school teachers in the job market because they provide evidence of a teacher's qualifications and expertise. Certifications can demonstrate that a teacher has completed the necessary training and is knowledgeable about their subject area. They also show potential employers that the teacher is committed to professional development and has taken the initiative to gain additional skills and knowledge. Furthermore, certifications provide a way for employers to easily verify credentials, which can be particularly helpful when considering candidates from other states or countries. Finally, having certifications may give a middle school teacher an advantage over those without them when competing for jobs.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Middle School Teachers and explains how they can contribute to a middle school teacher's career.

What are Middle School Teacher Certifications?

Middle school teacher certification is a form of professional recognition that confirms an educator has completed the necessary training and qualifications to teach in middle schools. It ensures teachers have the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to effectively instruct students in grades 5-8. The certification process typically includes completing a state-approved teacher preparation program, passing specific exams, and demonstrating competency in teaching strategies.

Having middle school teacher certification can be beneficial for both teachers and their students. For teachers, it can provide proof of their qualifications to potential employers and open up new job opportunities. It can also help them stay up-to-date on best practices for teaching this age group as well as stay informed about any changes in educational policies or standards. For students, having a certified middle school teacher can ensure they are receiving quality instruction from someone who is qualified to teach them. Certified teachers are also better equipped to handle any issues that may arise during their instruction such as bullying or student conflicts.

Pro Tip: When considering middle school teacher certification, be sure to research the requirements for your state and district. Many states have different standards for what is needed to become a certified middle school teacher and it is important to understand these requirements before beginning the process.

Related: What does a Middle School Teacher do?

Top 10 Middle School Teacher Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Middle School Teachers today.

1. Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) is a field of study that focuses on teaching English to people who are not native speakers. It is an important skill for those who want to work in the education or language-teaching field, and it can also be used for other purposes such as business, travel, and communication.

In order to get TESL certification, you must complete a course of study in the subject. The length of the program will depend on the institution offering it; some programs may take only a few weeks while others may take up to two years. The courses usually cover topics such as grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, culture, and methodology.

The cost of getting TESL certification will vary depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for a program depending on its duration and content.

In order to get certified in TESL, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language (IATEFL). After passing this exam, you will receive your certificate which is valid for three years before needing renewal.

2. Special Education Certification

Special Education Certification is a credential that allows educators to teach students with special needs. It requires specialized knowledge and skills to help students with disabilities reach their full potential.

It typically takes two to three years of study to obtain Special Education Certification, depending on the state in which the educator resides. Most states require a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, as well as completion of an approved teacher preparation program. In addition, some states may require passing scores on Praxis II exams or other assessments before certification can be granted.

To get Special Education Certification, first you must meet the requirements set forth by your state's Department of Education. This includes completing an approved teacher preparation program and passing any required assessments such as Praxis II exams. Once these requirements are met, you must then apply for certification with your state's board of education and pay the associated fees.

The cost for Special Education Certification varies from state to state but typically ranges from $50 - $200 USD depending on the type of certification desired. Additional fees may also apply for background checks or fingerprinting services as required by certain states.

3. Middle School Mathematics Certification

Middle School Mathematics Certification is a type of teaching certification that allows educators to teach middle school mathematics courses. It is available in most states and requires completion of specific coursework, exams, and other requirements.

In order to obtain Middle School Mathematics Certification, an individual must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university as well as complete a state-approved teacher preparation program. Depending on the state, this may include completing additional coursework in mathematics education and/or passing an exam. In some states, such as California and New York, teachers must also pass a subject matter examination in mathematics.

The amount of time it takes to obtain Middle School Mathematics Certification varies by state but typically ranges from one to two years. During this time, individuals must complete the required coursework and exams as well as any additional requirements set forth by their state's Department of Education.

The cost of obtaining Middle School Mathematics Certification also varies by state but usually includes tuition for the teacher preparation program, fees for taking the necessary exams, and any other associated costs such as books or materials.

4. Middle School Science Certification

Middle School Science Certification is a certification that allows teachers to teach science in middle school. It is offered through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). The certification process typically takes two years, and it involves completing an online application, passing an assessment, and participating in a portfolio review.

To get Middle School Science Certification, applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree in science or education and must have completed three years of teaching experience. Applicants must also complete a series of courses focused on teaching science in the middle school setting. These courses cover topics such as curriculum development, instructional strategies, assessment techniques, and classroom management.

The cost of the Middle School Science Certification varies depending on the state where the applicant is located. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 to complete the certification process.

5. Middle School Social Studies Certification

Middle School Social Studies Certification is a type of certification that allows teachers to teach social studies courses at the middle school level. It is typically required in order to teach social studies courses in public schools, although some private schools may also require it.

The process for obtaining Middle School Social Studies Certification varies by state, but generally involves completing an approved teacher preparation program and passing a certification exam. The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's educational background and the specific requirements of the state they are seeking certification in.

In most states, applicants must complete a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, such as history or political science, before applying for Middle School Social Studies Certification. In addition, many states require applicants to complete an approved teacher preparation program that includes student teaching experience and coursework in pedagogy and curriculum development. Once these requirements have been met, applicants must typically pass a certification exam administered by their state department of education or other governing body.

The cost of obtaining Middle School Social Studies Certification varies depending on the state and institution offering the teacher preparation program. Generally speaking, tuition costs for teacher preparation programs range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the length of the program and other factors. Additionally, most states charge an application fee when submitting paperwork for certification as well as fees associated with taking any required exams.

6. Technology Education Certification

Technology Education Certification is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of technology educators. It is earned through a rigorous process of study, professional development, and assessment. The certification is offered by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and is recognized by many states as an endorsement for teaching technology in the classroom.

The certification process typically takes about one year to complete, depending on the individual's level of experience and commitment to the program. To get certified, applicants must first take an online course that covers topics such as technology integration, digital citizenship, instructional design, and media literacy. After completing this course, applicants must then pass an online exam to demonstrate their mastery of these topics.

In addition to taking the online course and passing the exam, applicants must also have at least three years of teaching experience with technology in order to be eligible for certification. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and skills in technology education.

The cost of obtaining Technology Education Certification varies depending on the applicant’s level of experience and commitment to the program. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD to obtain this certification.

7. Reading and Literacy Instruction Certification

Reading and Literacy Instruction Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in reading instruction and literacy development. This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide effective reading instruction for students of all ages.

The Reading and Literacy Instruction Certification program typically takes between six months and one year to complete. The program consists of online courses, fieldwork experiences, assessments, and a final project. In order to obtain the certification, individuals must demonstrate mastery of the material covered in the coursework by passing a series of exams.

Individuals interested in obtaining the Reading and Literacy Instruction Certification can enroll in an accredited program through an approved provider or institution. The cost of the program varies depending on the institution offering it; however, most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD.

8. Health Education Certification

Health Education Certification is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals who have completed a program of study in health education. It is awarded by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC). The certification demonstrates that an individual has met certain standards and is qualified to provide health education services in a variety of settings.

The process to become certified as a health educator typically takes about two years. To be eligible, individuals must complete at least 45 semester hours of coursework from an accredited college or university, including courses in the areas of health promotion, disease prevention, nutrition, physical activity, mental and emotional health, substance abuse prevention, environmental health, and community organization. In addition to completing coursework requirements, applicants must also pass the NCHEC exam with a score of 75% or higher.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the applicant's educational background and experience. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 for application fees and exam fees combined. Additional expenses may include textbooks and other materials needed for coursework requirements.

Once certified, individuals can expect to receive recognition from employers and clients as well as increased earning potential due to their expertise in the field of health education.

9. Gifted and Talented Education Certification

Gifted and Talented Education Certification (GTEC) is a professional certification that provides educators with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively teach gifted students. It is designed to provide teachers with the ability to recognize, understand, and develop the potential of gifted students in their classrooms.

The certification process typically takes 12-18 months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with transcripts from all colleges attended. Applicants must also pass a written exam and complete a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their ability to meet GTEC standards.

In order to obtain GTEC certification, applicants must demonstrate competency in areas such as understanding giftedness, curriculum development for gifted students, assessment of gifted learners, instructional strategies for teaching gifted learners, and collaboration between teachers and parents/guardians. The cost of obtaining GTEC certification varies depending on the program chosen; however, most programs range from $500-$2,000.

10. Character Education Certification

Character Education Certification is a professional development program designed to help educators, administrators, and other school personnel strengthen their understanding of character education. Character Education Certification provides an in-depth exploration of the core principles and practices associated with effective character education. It includes training on topics such as developing a character education plan, creating a positive school climate, and teaching ethical decision-making skills.

The Character Education Certification program typically takes between 12 and 18 months to complete. Participants must complete all coursework, including online modules, workshops, and field experiences. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider but can range from $200-$600 for the entire program. To get certified, participants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of character education.

Do You Really Need a Middle School Teacher Certificate?

Yes, a middle school teacher certificate is absolutely essential for anyone who wants to teach at the middle school level. A teacher's certificate ensures that the person has had the necessary training and education to be able to effectively teach students in this age range. Without a certificate, there is no guarantee that the person has the knowledge or ability to teach at this level.

The requirements for a middle school teacher certificate vary by state and country, but typically include completing an accredited degree program in education, passing certification exams related to teaching, and completing student teaching hours. The certification process also includes background checks and fingerprinting. In some cases, additional courses may be required before certification can be granted.

A middle school teacher certificate allows teachers to demonstrate their commitment to their profession and dedication to helping students succeed in their studies. It also provides evidence of their qualifications and experience as an educator. This is important as it helps potential employers or schools evaluate whether or not they are a good fit for the job. It also allows them to stand out among other applicants when applying for positions.

In addition, having a valid teacher's certificate increases the chances of being hired for future positions since it shows that you have taken the time and effort to become certified as a qualified educator in your field. Furthermore, having this credential could lead to higher salaries as well as more job opportunities due to its recognition as proof of one's skills and expertise.

Overall, having a middle school teacher certificate is an important step towards becoming an effective educator at this level. It serves as proof of one's qualifications and experience while providing employers with evidence that they are qualified for the position they are seeking.

Related: Middle School Teacher Resume Examples

FAQs About Middle School Teacher Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a middle school teacher?

Answer: Generally, you will need a bachelor’s degree, a teaching license or certificate, and classroom experience in order to become a middle school teacher.

2. What type of certificate do I need to teach middle school?

Answer: Depending on your state and the subject you wish to teach, you may need either a Standard Certificate or Professional Certificate.

3. Do I have to take any tests to get certified as a middle school teacher?

Answer: Yes, most states require prospective teachers to pass certain tests in order to be eligible for certification. These tests may include the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (CASE), Praxis Subject Assessments, and/or the edTPA Assessment.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a middle school teacher?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to earn your certification will depend on the program you choose and your level of commitment. Most programs can be completed in 1-2 years if you are taking classes full-time; however, part-time students may take longer depending on their availability and course load.

5. Is there an age limit for becoming a middle school teacher?

Answer: No, there is no age limit for becoming a middle school teacher; however, some states may require additional training or experience if you are over the age of 25 when applying for certification.