2026 How Long Does It Take to Be a Teacher in Minnesota?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Becoming a teacher in Minnesota typically requires completing a bachelor’s degree and obtaining state licensure, a process that generally takes four to five years. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, over 80 percent of the state’s educators hold at least a bachelor’s degree, reflecting a strong commitment to professional standards. Teaching in Minnesota offers competitive salaries and benefits, alongside opportunities for career advancement.

This article, prepared by experts in career planning, provides a clear, step-by-step overview of the time commitments and requirements involved. It aims to equip prospective teachers with the essential information needed to navigate the path efficiently.

Key Things to Know About How Long It Takes to Be a Teacher in Minnesota

• Complete a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, which typically takes four years at Minnesota colleges.
• Obtain a teaching license by passing the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE), a process that can add several months depending on preparation and testing schedules.
• Engage in a one-year probationary teaching period or residency program required for licensure renewal and experience accumulation.

Table of Contents

1. How long does it take to earn a teaching degree in Minnesota?
2. How long does teacher certification take in Minnesota?
3. Do career changers take less time to become teachers in Minnesota?
4. Do advanced degrees shorten the teacher certification process in Minnesota?
5. Are online programs speeding up the process of becoming a teacher in Minnesota?
6. Do elementary and secondary teachers have different timelines in Minnesota?
7. How long is the probationary teaching period in Minnesota?
8. What is the pathway for becoming a physical education teacher in Minnesota?
9. How much does it cost to complete the education requirements in Minnesota?
10. How long after certification can you get hired as a teacher in Minnesota?
11. How does a teacher's salary in Minnesota increase over the career timeline?

How long does it take to earn a teaching degree in Minnesota?

The time it takes to earn a teaching degree in Minnesota can vary based on several factors, including whether you enroll full-time or part-time, your previous education, and the specific program's design. While some flexibility exists, most students following the traditional path complete their degree within a predictable timeframe. For those wondering about the Minnesota teacher education program duration on the standard route, here is a practical breakdown:

• General Duration: Most full-time students complete a bachelor’s degree in education in about four years, aligning with typical undergraduate timelines.
• Credit Requirements: Students need to earn between 120 and 128 semester credits, covering both general education and major-specific courses.
• Program Structure: The curriculum usually consists of 25 to 30 education-focused classes, covering topics like pedagogy, child development, and subject-specific teaching methods.
• Field Experience: Multiple field experiences are integrated, including classroom observations and practicum placements spread over several semesters.
• Student Teaching: The final year requires a full-time student teaching assignment lasting one semester, typically 12 to 16 weeks, which is essential for licensure.
• Licensure Preparation: The program meets the standards set by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, enabling graduates to apply for initial teaching licensure upon completion.
• Typical Timeline: Most students complete all degree and licensure requirements within four academic years when studying full-time; part-time enrollment or transfer credits may extend or shorten this duration.

If you’re interested in advancing beyond the bachelor’s degree, available options include accelerated and specialized programs, detailed in the ranking of the best 1 year online masters in education programs.

How long does teacher certification take in Minnesota?

The time it takes to obtain teacher certification in Minnesota varies depending on your current education level, the type of teaching license you seek, and whether you choose a traditional or alternative certification pathway. Generally, the Minnesota teacher certification timeline is about four years for those starting from scratch, but accelerated options exist for candidates with prior degrees or experience.

• Bachelor’s Degree and Educator Preparation Program: The traditional route requires completing a bachelor’s degree along with a state-approved educator preparation program, typically taking four years. Alternative programs are available for those with previous degrees, with some, like the TEACH-NOW program, finishing in as little as nine months while teaching under a provisional license.
• Student Teaching Practicum: Candidates must complete a minimum of 12 weeks of full-time student teaching as part of their preparation. This hands-on experience is crucial to developing classroom skills under the supervision of a licensed teacher.
• Examinations: Since August 2023, candidates from Minnesota-approved programs are exempt from the state’s required content and pedagogy exams, which can shorten the timeline. However, out-of-state candidates or those pursuing portfolio pathways may still need to pass equivalent competency exams.
• Background Checks: All applicants must pass state and federal background checks, which typically take between two to eight weeks and can be processed concurrently with other requirements.
• Licensure Application: After meeting all education, practicum, testing, and background check criteria, you apply to the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. Processing your initial Tier 3 license application usually takes several weeks.

Those pursuing alternative pathways, such as career changers or educators from other states, often benefit from the Minnesota teacher certification timeline by starting to teach earlier under a Tier 2 license while completing the remaining requirements. For detailed guidance on advancing your education further, explore what is the best doctorate in higher education online programs to plan your professional development effectively.

Do career changers take less time to become teachers in Minnesota?

Alternative certification pathways in Minnesota are tailored to help professionals from other careers enter teaching more swiftly by reducing traditional barriers and recognizing prior experience. These routes provide practical flexibility and often let candidates earn while they learn, accelerating the transition process.

• Teaching While Completing Coursework: Many programs allow candidates to serve as the primary teacher in classrooms while finishing required classes. This hands-on approach provides income and real-world experience simultaneously, cutting down the wait time before full licensure.
• Waiving or Modifying Requirements: Candidates with a bachelor’s degree or relevant professional background may bypass certain courses or fieldwork. This recognition of prior learning reduces redundant training and shortens preparation time effectively.
• Accelerated and Flexible Formats: Intensive summer sessions, evening classes, or online coursework help candidates fit studies around existing work or family commitments. Such options compress timelines compared to traditional semester-based programs.
• Performance-Based Licensure: Some pathways prioritize demonstrated classroom ability over accumulated coursework, allowing skilled educators to earn certification faster once proven effective in teaching.
• Focus on High-Need Areas: Special tracks for subjects like special education or STEM often have expedited routes to address workforce shortages, getting teachers into critical roles more quickly.

When I spoke with a Minnesota teacher who changed careers after graduating from a local university, he described the process as challenging but rewarding. “Starting out was overwhelming—balancing a new classroom and finishing classes at the same time wasn’t easy,” he shared. Yet, he appreciated how the program’s structure let him immediately apply what he learned while earning a salary. “It felt like the pieces fit together practically. I wasn’t waiting years to teach—I was teaching right away and growing in the role.”

He also noted that having some flexibility was crucial, as juggling family obligations and coursework required disciplined time management. Reflecting back, he said, “The initial stress was real, but the accelerated pathway made it possible for me to switch careers without giving up financial stability or momentum.” This experience highlights how alternative certification can compress timelines without sacrificing quality for motivated career changers in Minnesota.

Do advanced degrees shorten the teacher certification process in Minnesota?

Holding a master’s or doctoral degree can significantly influence the teacher certification timeline in Minnesota by offering alternative pathways that reduce required coursework and expedite licensure. Advanced degrees aligned with education or specific content areas create opportunities for faster progression through certification steps. Here are some ways advanced degrees can shorten the teaching certification process in Minnesota:

• Waiving Prerequisite Coursework: Graduate-level courses in pedagogy or content areas may fulfill Minnesota’s licensure requirements, allowing candidates to bypass some foundational classes and advance quicker through their certification program.
• Eligibility for Accelerated Certification Programs: Post-baccalaureate and graduate certificate programs tailored for degree holders focus only on outstanding licensure requirements. These programs often enable completion in about two years, compared to four years for traditional routes.
• Reduced Student Teaching or Field Experience: Prior teaching experience or relevant practicum work during graduate studies can sometimes reduce the duration or requirements for student teaching through credit or job-embedded opportunities.
• Tiered Licensure Benefits: A master’s degree aligned with the teaching field may qualify candidates for Tier 2 licensure, permitting them to begin teaching sooner without full completion of a traditional preparation program.
• Portfolio or Out-of-State Credential Evaluation: Candidates with advanced degrees and prior teaching experience can pursue licensure via portfolio review or credential evaluation, potentially waiving coursework and practicum requirements if previous preparation meets state standards.

Are online programs speeding up the process of becoming a teacher in Minnesota?

Flexible, online teacher preparation programs in Minnesota are reshaping how quickly candidates can earn their teaching licenses. By removing traditional constraints like fixed schedules and physical attendance, these programs offer practical solutions to accelerate certification timelines.

• Self-Paced Coursework: Many programs allow candidates to progress through material at their own speed. This means you can complete courses as soon as you master the content, often shortening the typical two-year pathway.
• Condensed Program Formats: Instead of following a traditional academic calendar, some online programs run year-round with continuous terms, including summers. This lets candidates avoid long breaks and finish requirements sooner.
• Concurrent Teaching and Coursework: Certain pathways permit working in classrooms under limited licenses or as paraprofessionals while completing training. This dual approach enables you to gain paid experience and finish your coursework simultaneously.
• Customized Pathways Based on Prior Experience: Online programs often evaluate your previous degrees and teaching experience to waive redundant classes. This targeted approach can reduce your time in the program if you qualify.
• Reduced Commuting and Scheduling Barriers: Fully online, asynchronous courses eliminate travel and rigid class times, fitting better around work and family commitments. This flexibility is especially crucial for candidates in rural areas.

A Minnesota teacher who graduated from a local school shared her firsthand experience with online licensure programs. She recalled feeling overwhelmed initially, juggling a busy family life and a full-time job but found the self-paced format vital in managing her time effectively. “Being able to study after my kids went to bed, instead of rushing to a campus class, made all the difference,” she noted. The ability to start working under a limited license while finishing her coursework gave her income stability and classroom confidence simultaneously. She reflected that without the online option, she might have delayed her career by several years. This streamlined experience not only saved time but also reduced the stress often involved in earning a teaching license, making it a practical choice for many Minnesotans like her.

Do elementary and secondary teachers have different timelines in Minnesota?

Becoming an elementary or secondary teacher in Minnesota typically starts with earning a bachelor’s degree through a state-approved preparation program, usually taking about four years. Both paths require a supervised student teaching placement of roughly 12 weeks and passing a background check before licensure. Recent policy changes mean elementary candidates no longer need to pass the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) if they graduate from an approved program. Secondary candidates specialize in a subject area, often extending their timeline if additional coursework is needed to meet content requirements, like extra science classes for future high school chemistry teachers.

The licensure process uses a tiered system, with most new teachers starting at Tier 3. While the core steps are similar, secondary candidates may need more time depending on their previous education and subject-area demands. This means the timeline for secondary teaching can extend beyond the standard four years plus student teaching, especially for those changing fields or adding endorsements.

How long is the probationary teaching period in Minnesota?

The probationary period for teachers in Minnesota typically lasts three consecutive years of employment within the same school district. This duration applies equally to both elementary and secondary teachers, as there is no legal distinction in the length based on grade level. Each probationary year requires completion of at least 90 days of teaching service, excluding time spent on parent-teacher conferences, staff development, or absences.

While local districts have some latitude in how they implement evaluation procedures during this probationary period, they cannot change the overall length mandated by state law. These evaluations are crucial, occurring at least three times annually, and include peer review components to help administrators assess a teacher’s capabilities objectively and fairly. This structured system ensures that teachers are given ample opportunity to demonstrate their effectiveness in classroom management, instructional skills, and professional conduct before moving forward.

Upon successfully completing this probationary phase, teachers become eligible for tenure or continuing contract status, which provides enhanced job security and due process protections. If a teacher transfers to another district after completing the three-year period, the probationary requirement in the new district typically reduces to one year, assuming no prior contract rights were lost. To move beyond probation, teachers must consistently meet the performance standards outlined through written evaluations and peer reviews. These standards emphasize competence in instructional delivery and professional behavior. For those considering how to strategically navigate their teaching career in Minnesota, exploring the cheapest EdD programs can provide valuable additional credentials and strengthen their professional standing in this competitive field.

What is the pathway for becoming a physical education teacher in Minnesota?

Prospective physical education teachers should pursue programs that integrate core teacher education with specialized coursework in exercise science, sports management, and health education. Many accredited institutions offer focused curricula and practical internships, ensuring candidates develop the skills required for classroom instruction as well as extracurricular coaching. Licensing for physical education may involve additional practical assessments and fitness-related certifications not typically required for other subjects. For comprehensive guidance on specific requirements and streamlined application processes, refer to how to become a PE teacher in Minnesota.

How much does it cost to complete the education requirements in Minnesota?

Expenses for completing a teacher education program in Minnesota vary significantly based on the type of credential pursued, the institution chosen, and residency status. Prospective teachers should plan carefully, factoring in tuition, fees, and related costs to avoid surprises and maximize financial aid opportunities. Understanding these costs helps set realistic expectations for the total investment required to earn a teaching license in Minnesota.

• Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Tuition and Fees: Tuition rates vary widely depending on the school and program length. For a bachelor's degree, expect to pay for 120 credits or more, with fees adding to the cost per credit. Master’s degrees typically require additional credits and can incur higher tuition, reflecting more specialized coursework essential for deeper subject expertise and pedagogy.
• Alternative Certification Programs: These programs offer a streamlined path for professionals transitioning into teaching, often at a lower cost and shorter timeline than traditional degrees. These programs focus on practical classroom skills and certification requirements, helping candidates gain licensure efficiently while providing support through teaching practice.
• Testing, Application, and Background Check Fees: Aside from tuition, candidates must budget for mandatory exams, application fees, and background investigations. These ensure compliance with licensing standards and are necessary steps for maintaining the integrity of the teaching profession.
• Continuing Education and Professional Development: Maintaining teaching credentials in Minnesota often involves ongoing training and certification renewal, which can include workshops, specialized courses, or online training. Investing in this continuous learning supports staying current with educational standards and practices.

For those comparing options or exploring affordable online degrees, it is worth reviewing programs such as what is the cheapest online library science masters degree, which can provide insight into cost-effective online educational pathways relevant to teaching professionals.

How long after certification can you get hired as a teacher in Minnesota?

The time it takes to get hired as a teacher in Minnesota after certification varies considerably. Some candidates secure jobs within weeks, especially during peak hiring seasons, while others may wait several months or until the next hiring cycle based on different circumstances. Below are the main factors influencing hiring timelines:

• Hiring Season: Most hiring occurs from March to August for fall start dates, so certification during this period can speed up job placement.
• Subject Area Demand: High-demand fields like special education, math, and science often lead to faster hiring compared to more competitive areas.
• Geographic Flexibility: Willingness to work in rural or underserved urban districts can increase the chance of quicker employment.
• Networking and Connections: Building professional relationships during student teaching or job fairs often provides early access to openings.
• Application Preparedness: Having resumes, references, and transcripts ready lets candidates apply immediately as positions open.
• District Hiring Policies: Some positions require a 15-day posting period on the statewide job board, which may extend waiting times.
• Licensure Processing Time: Official teaching licenses typically take 4–6 weeks to process after meeting certification requirements.
• Substitute Teaching: Many new educators gain substitute experience while awaiting full-time roles, improving their visibility and opportunities.

For those planning their career path, understanding how long to get a teaching degree in Minnesota and the typical hiring timeline can help create realistic expectations. Exploring options such as easy teaching degrees may also speed up entering the workforce.

How does a teacher's salary in Minnesota increase over the career timeline?

Teacher salary progression in Minnesota is primarily driven by a combination of years of service and professional development achievements. Salaries increase systematically as educators gain experience and obtain higher educational credentials, offering a clear and structured path for career growth.

• Years of Experience (Steps): Teachers receive annual raises based on their years of service, typically for the first 15 to 20 years, allowing steady salary growth from a starting average near $43,000 to about $70,000 statewide, with some senior teachers earning over $100,000.
• Educational Attainment (Lanes): Advancement to higher “lanes” on salary schedules occurs when teachers earn advanced degrees or certifications, often supported by district tuition reimbursement programs, which accelerate pay increases.
• Promotion and Additional Roles: Taking on leadership roles or specialty positions, such as department chair or instructional coach, can boost income, along with stipends for extracurricular responsibilities.
• Longevity Bonuses and Retention Incentives: Some districts provide bonuses to reward long-term service or retain teachers in high-need subjects, supplementing base salary.
• Regional Differences and Cost of Living Adjustments: Salaries vary by district, with urban and affluent areas offering higher pay to reflect local funding and living costs.

What Do Teachers in Minnesota Say About Their Career?

• Completing my education program at North Star Academy truly grounded me in the realities and rewards of teaching in Minnesota. The support from local educators helped me transition smoothly into a career at a nearby school, where I’ve witnessed firsthand the stable job market for teachers here. There’s something deeply fulfilling about contributing to a community that values education while surrounded by Minnesota’s unique cultural richness and natural beauty. The professional development opportunities offered have also allowed me to stay passionate and continually grow in my role. Leon
• Starting out in a local Minnesota school was an eye-opening experience that allowed me to connect with students from diverse backgrounds in meaningful ways. My time at Lakeside Teaching Institute prepared me well, but the real growth came from engaging with the community and adapting to the challenges of teaching in a state that balances urban and rural educational needs. There’s a special sense of pride in knowing that I’m shaping young lives in such a vibrant environment, and I feel empowered by the career advancement paths available to educators here. Joanne
• As someone who thrives on personal growth and community involvement, my journey through the Heartland Educators Program was transformative. Teaching in Minnesota means embracing the changing seasons and the cultural traditions that shape our schools. This experience has not only enhanced my professional skills but has deeply enriched my understanding of the diverse needs of students. Contributing positively to their wellbeing while navigating the unique challenges of this region has been incredibly rewarding. Monique

References:

• Sec. 122A.40 MN Statutes https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/122a.40
• Minnesota Statutes Education Code: Prekindergarten-Grade 12 (Ch. 120-129C) § 122A.40 | FindLaw https://codes.findlaw.com/mn/education-code-prekindergarten-grade-12-ch-120-129c/mn-st-sect-122a-40/
• MN Teacher tenure act: Employment; contracts; termination (excerpts) https://educationright.tripod.com/id354.htm
• Promotion, Tenure, & Review | Faculty & Academic Affairs https://faculty.umn.edu/promotion-tenure-review
• Licensure FAQ Redirect / Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) https://mn.gov/pelsb/licensure-faq/index.jsp
• Teacher licensure process | College of Education and Human Development https://www.cehd.umn.edu/teach/licensure
• Become a teacher | Department of Curriculum and Instruction https://ci.umn.edu/become-a-teacher
• How to Become a Teacher in Minnesota | BestColleges https://www.bestcolleges.com/education/certification/minnesota/
• Graduate Teaching Licensure | Become a Certified Educator https://www.css.edu/academics/programs/graduate/graduate-teaching-licensure/

Other Things to Know About Becoming a Teacher in Minnesota