UMass Pathways to Initial Licensure
Elementary
- Complete an approved elementary teacher prep program
- Pass Required MTELS
- Communication and Literacy Skills (currently waived)
- General Curriculum Subtests 1 and 2
Secondary
- Complete an approved teacher prep program
- Major in subject matter (choose teaching concentration, if available)
- Complete licensure program (University to Schools undergraduate program or 4 + 1 program)
- Pass Required MTELS
- Communication and Literacy Skills (currently waived)
- Math Teachers: Mathematics (5-8) and/or (8-12)
- Science Teachers: One or more of the following: Biology (8-12), Chemistry (8-12), Earth and Space Science (8-12), General Science (5-8), or Technology/Engineering (5-12)
Note that all MA teachers must earn a Master's degree within 5 years of getting their initial license in order to maintain their teaching credential.
Alternative Pathways to Licensure
You can apply for a provisional MA teaching license that has fewer requirements. It is only good for five years and cannot be renewed. After five years, you must advance to an initial license by completing an approved teacher prep program (usually as part of a Master's degree).
The DESE Licensure Tool helps you determine all possible pathways to licensure.