How Do I Become A Teacher in Mississippi?
As an educator, you will shape futures every day—helping children discover their potential and gain the skills they need to reach their goals. Education is one of the most meaningful paths you can choose.
The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) is the only agency in the state that can grant Teaching Licenses. The School of Education at The W can help you meet the qualifications to become a teacher.
Undergraduate Degrees
What are the different types of teaching licenses in Mississippi?
Class Levels of Mississippi Licenses
Class A = Bachelor’s level license
Class AA = Master’s degree level license
Class AAA = Specialist degree level license
Class AAAA = Doctorate degree level license
(Juris Doctorate and Master of Fine Arts Degrees are Issued at the Class AAA Level)
Generally, higher-level class licenses command higher salaries. See the Teacher Salary Schedule from the Mississippi Department of Education.
Other limited and specialty licenses may be obtained from MDE. For more information on teacher licensure, we suggest reviewing the Licensure Guidelines from the Mississippi Department of Education.
I want to teach in another state. What should I do?
Thinking about coming to The W but want to teach in another state, territory, or country? No problem! Mississippi has agreements with most states, so a Mississippi teaching license can often be used in other places. Since every location has its own rules, be sure to check with the Department of Education or the licensing board of the other locations to determine what you’ll need to do. You can find contact information for every state on the U.S. Department of Education’s State Contacts page.
What kind of support will I have along the way?
Unlike some universities, The W’s School of Education has the tools, resources, and programs to support you at EVERY STEP of your career as a teacher. We call it The W Difference for a reason.
As a student, you’ll learn from experienced faculty, get help from top tutoring services, and have a Student Success Navigator to guide you along the way. Our campus offers many student-centered supports to help you complete your degree and launch your teaching career.
As a new teacher, you’ll rely on the Center for Educational Support to find programs designed to meet the needs of new educators and to connect with mentor teachers, educational events, conferences, and opportunities in policy and advocacy within the education field. Throughout your career, the CES will be there to help you earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to stay informed on the latest teaching methods and invite you to workshops, institutes, and events.
Once you are in your classroom and you’re ready to take the next step in your career, we have graduate degrees and endorsements in Education.