How to Become a Licensed Teacher in Massachusetts: 5 Steps

Becoming a teacher is more than a career—it’s a calling. Whether you’ve always dreamed of leading a classroom or recently discovered a passion for education, gaining licensure can be exciting and overwhelming. This is particularly true in Massachusetts, where the average teacher salary ranks among the highest in the nation, and ongoing teacher shortages in subjects like STEM and special education create strong job prospects. The state also consistently ranks in the top five for overall education quality, making it an excellent place to build a long-term teaching career.

If you’re wondering where to begin, you’re not alone. The licensure process in Massachusetts is structured but manageable with the right guidance. From earning your degree and passing required exams to gaining classroom experience and fulfilling state requirements, each step is designed to ensure you enter the classroom confident and prepared.

So whether you’re a recent graduate or transitioning from another field, this guide will break down the essential steps to becoming a licensed teacher in Massachusetts.

How long does it take to become a teacher in Massachusetts?

The time it takes to become a licensed teacher in Massachusetts depends on your education, experience, and the licensure path you choose. Some individuals can enter the classroom quickly with a preliminary license, while others complete a state-approved teacher preparation program to earn an Initial License, which is the preferred credential for most school districts.

Massachusetts has three main licensure levels, each with different timelines:

• Preliminary license: Available to you if you have a bachelor’s degree but no formal teacher preparation, which can allow you to begin teaching immediately while working toward an initial license.
• Initial license: Requires completing a teacher preparation program, passing the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL), and completing a supervised practicum which often takes two to three years depending on the program.
• Professional license: Obtained after at least three years of teaching under an initial license and completing either a master’s degree or an equivalent professional development program and is the highest level of classroom licensure that’s renewed every five years.

If you’re following a traditional pathway through a teacher preparation program, earning an initial license typically takes two to three years. However, if you start teaching under a preliminary license, you may take up to five years to meet the full licensure requirements. No matter which path you take, understanding the steps involved can help you navigate the process efficiently. The next section outlines the five key steps to becoming a licensed teacher in Massachusetts.

5 Steps to becoming a licensed teacher in Massachusetts

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree.

The first step to becoming a licensed teacher in Massachusetts is earning a bachelor’s degree, which serves as the foundation for your teaching career. While any major is acceptable for elementary education, as an aspiring secondary education teachers you must have a degree or significant coursework in the subject they plan to teach.

“If you want to be a biology teacher, you need to have been either a biology major or have significant coursework in the subject,” says Shaunna Harrington, a professor in Northeastern’s Master of Arts in Teaching and Master of Education programs. This ensures you meet the content knowledge requirements of the MTEL, which is a key step in the certification process.

Many future educators enhance their undergraduate education by also taking education-related electives, tutoring, or working in school settings to gain experience before entering a formal teacher preparation program. While not required, these experiences help you build a strong foundation in classroom management and instructional strategies.

2. Choose the right teacher preparation program.

To become a licensed teacher in Massachusetts, you must complete an approved educator preparation program, which provides the pedagogical training, classroom management techniques, and assessment strategies needed to be an effective educator. These programs not only equip you with essential teaching skills but also immerse you in real-world teaching environments through fieldwork and a required student-teaching practicum.

Massachusetts offers several pathways to meet the licensure requirements:

• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Ideal for individuals seeking both licensure and a graduate degree, MAT programs combine coursework with supervised teaching experiences. This route is well-suited for career changers or those who want to strengthen their subject expertise while earning licensure.
• Post-baccalaureate licensure programs: Designed for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and need a structured, state-approved pathway to licensure without pursuing a full master’s degree. These programs focus on the necessary coursework and field experience required for certification.
• Alternative licensure routes: Some individuals may qualify for preliminary licensure, allowing them to teach while completing additional coursework to meet full licensure requirements. These programs often involve mentorship and professional development support.

While post-baccalaureate and alternative licensure routes can meet minimum requirements, an MAT program offers a comprehensive, structured approach. This doesn’t just lead to licensure but can also strengthen your teaching skills with advanced coursework. As a result, you’ll become a more competitive for higher-paying roles and help you transition to a professional license faster.

When selecting a program, it’s important to consider your career goals, educational background, and preferred learning format. For example, some MAT programs are structured for full-time students, while others, like Northeastern’s, offer part-time, evening, or online coursework to accommodate working professionals. Additionally, certain programs specialize in high-demand areas like special education, STEM, and English as a Second Language, which can lead to greater job opportunities.

Beyond licensure, Northeastern’s program includes career placement support and partnerships with local districts—helping you secure a teaching role quickly. Plus, earning your MAT can lead to higher salary potential and long-term job stability

3. Pass the Massachusetts tests for educator licensure.

Before becoming a licensed teacher in Massachusetts, you must pass the MTEL, which assesses both communication skills and subject-matter expertise. These exams ensure you meet the state’s high educational standards and possess the necessary knowledge to teach effectively.

The required tests typically include:

• Communication and literacy skills test: A general assessment of reading and writing skills required for all educators.
• Subject-specific tests: Evaluates content knowledge in the subject you plan to teach. For example, you must pass the Mathematics MTEL to become a math teacher.

One important distinction is that while a teacher preparation program will train you in instructional methods, classroom management, and pedagogy, it does not prepare you for the content-specific portion of the MTEL. This means that passing the subject-area exam largely depends on the coursework and background knowledge you already have in that subject. “The MTELs measure people’s content expertise, not their teaching expertise,” Harrington says. Even strong teachers may struggle if they are not adequately prepared for the exam format.

While many educator preparation programs offer resources and workshops to help with exam preparation, you will need to take the initiative to study independently for the subject-area test. To increase your chances of success, consider utilizing:

• Study guides and MTEL prep books
• Practice tests to familiarize yourself with the time constraints
• Test prep courses offered by independent providers

Passing the MTEL is a crucial milestone in the licensure process, demonstrating that you have both the communication skills and subject knowledge required to lead a classroom effectively.

4. Complete a supervised practicum.

A supervised practicum, commonly known as student teaching, is one of the most critical components of teacher training. This hands-on experience places you in a real classroom, where you work under the guidance of an experienced mentor teacher to develop your instructional skills, classroom management techniques, and confidence in leading a class.

The practicum typically lasts one full semester and requires full-time participation, meaning you must commit to the same schedule as a full-time teacher. During this time, you’ll gradually take on more responsibility that eventually ends with leading a classroom under observation.

Massachusetts teacher preparation programs, like Northeastern’s, work closely with local schools and districts to arrange practicum placements. These placements are designed to match you with classrooms in their licensure area, whether it’s elementary education, secondary education, or a specialized subject like special education or ESL.

While student teaching provides invaluable real-world experience, it’s important to plan for the financial commitment. “It’s a full semester, full-time commitment, and people need to plan financially,” Harrington says. Since the practicum is unpaid, aspiring teachers should explore financial aid options, scholarships, or part-time work that won’t interfere with their full-time teaching responsibilities.

5. Apply for your initial teaching license.

Once you have met all licensure requirements, the final step is applying for your Initial License through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) via the Educator Licensure And Renewal (ELAR) portal. This online system allows candidates to submit and track their licensure applications.

Your application must include:

• Official transcripts
• MTEL passing scores
• Proof of completed educator preparation program

Processing times for applications can vary, so it’s advisable to submit your application as early as possible to avoid delays in securing a teaching position. You can check the status of your application through the ELAR portal and respond to any requests for additional documentation.

Once your initial license is approved, you can begin applying for full-time teaching positions in Massachusetts public schools. Many school districts start their hiring process months in advance, so having your licensure application submitted early can help you maximize job opportunities.

Take the next step toward your teaching career

Earning your teaching license in Massachusetts is a significant achievement, one that requires dedication, preparation, and a passion for education. Whether you are transitioning from another career or starting fresh, following the structured pathway outlined above will help you enter the classroom with confidence.

If you’re looking for a state-approved, flexible MAT program that provides comprehensive preparation, consider Northeastern University’s MAT program. With evening classes, hybrid learning options, and strong faculty support, Northeastern’s MAT program is designed for working professionals who need a structured yet accommodating route to licensure. Financial aid and scholarships, including a $10,000 scholarship for educators in urban schools, can help make your degree more affordable.