TeachMS

Teaching Pathways

Alternate Route

The Alternate Route Pathway gives individuals with a non-education bachelor’s degree a chance to enter the classroom quickly by completing an approved program that combines coursework, mentorship, and field experience.

License Details

Candidates begin teaching in as little as one semester while working toward full certification. It’s a flexible, accelerated option for career changers or recent graduates who want to become licensed educators without returning to college for a second undergraduate degree.

Alternate-route certification pathways include like American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence, iteach Mississippi, Teach for America, and Teach Mississippi Institute.

Requirements

  • Hold a non-education bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Have one of the following:
    • 21 ACT score (or SAT equivalent)
    • passing Praxis Core score
    • 3.0 GPA on your last 60 hours of college coursework
  • Pass the Praxis subject for the subject you want to teach
  • Pass the Foundations of Reading exam (required for Elementary Education)
  • Complete a State Board-approved alternate route program

Approved Subjects

Depending on the program, you can earn certification in:

  • 4-6 (iteach Mississippi)
  • K–6 Elementary Education (TFA only)
  • 7–12:
    • Business
    • English
    • Mathematics
    • Science
  • K–12:
    • Foreign Languages
    • Library Media
    • Performing Arts
    • Visual Arts
    • Physical Education & Health

License Duration

  • You’ll start with a non-renewable provisional license (1 or 3 years, depending on your program).
  • After completing all program requirements, including a year-long internship, you’ll qualify for a five-year renewable standard license.
  • The standard license can be upgraded based on additional education or experience.
  • Endorsements can be added by coursework, an approved program, or passing a subject test.

Restrictions

  • You must complete all pre-teaching requirements before getting the three-year license.
  • The provisional license cannot be renewed—you’ll need to convert to the five-year license.
  • Subject area certifications depend on the program you choose (e.g., Elementary only through TFA and iteach).

Alternate Route Programs

Next Steps

Start your transition to a new teaching career! Learn more about the different programs available.

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