Many teaching programs let you combine a bachelor’s degree and teaching license—so you can get licensed while you finish your undergraduate coursework.
You’ll need a degree to teach most subjects. But not always! You may not need a degree if you speak a world language, or if you have work experience in a visual & performing arts subject (like theater or music), skilled trade or other Career and Technical Education subject. Check out the FAQs for more info!
Once you’ve found a few programs that interest you and work with your lifestyle, you can start applying!
TeachMN can you apply to teaching programs! Get our free guides and downloadable templates for personal essays, resumes and letters of recommendation. Get application help.
You don’t need to know what you want to teach when you start college! You’ll usually declare a major and choose your teaching subject partway through your program. It’s helpful if your major and future teaching subject match.
Getting licensed in a shortage area subject—such as special education, science or bilingual education—provides more job opportunities!
Almost there! Your teaching program may need to confirm that you’re eligible to apply for your teaching license.
Once you get confirmation, you’ll apply directly through the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. You’ll complete a background check as part of the application process. (1)
With your new teaching license, you can apply to teaching jobs throughout Minnesota.
The TeachMN Licensing Guide covers everything you need to start your journey. Get details about teaching pathways, subject areas and steps to getting licensed, all in one place!
It’s completely free.
Find bachelor's degree, master's degree and license-only teaching programs in Minnesota.
Find ProgramsTalk to an experienced local educator about how to become a licensed teacher in Minnesota. Get free advice on how to choose what subject and grade to teach and apply to the right program.
Read MoreApplying to teaching programs or jobs? Get step-by-step advice and free templates for your resume and essay to make your application stand out. Then use our guide to recommendation letters to seal the deal.
Read MoreEnter your email to get FREE resources for future Minnesota teachers—from tailored advising to funding opportunities and more. Already signed up? Sign in at the top of the page to access your dashboard.
Curious about becoming a teacher in Minnesota? Get an overview here, and download our free Licensing Guide!
(1) Fingerprint Cards, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. https://mn.gov/pelsb/aspiring-educators/fingerprint/
(2) Educator Pay Data. National Education Association. October 17, 2024. https://www.nea.org/resource-library/educator-pay-and-student-spending-how-does-your-state-rank
