A teacher interacting with two students

Become a Teacher at UW–Madison

Become a teacher at one of the best schools of education in the nation. The University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Education educator preparation programs emphasize academic rigor, multicultural and global competence, and extensive supervised experiences in the field.

Our programs prepare you to be leaders who work in diverse schools across Wisconsin, the nation, and the world. You will become part of the Badger family of teacher education graduates who are committed to high-quality, culturally responsive instruction that serves every student.

Ask us how you can become a teacher!

Teacher Education Center
tec@education.wisc.edu
(608) 262-2997

Learn More

UW–Madison Teacher Certification Programs

We offer undergraduate and graduate teacher certification programs. We also have a transfer agreement with Madison collegeConnect with our enrollment team to determine which program is right for you. Ask about our Teacher Pledge which can offer financial support.

Once you have selected the right program for you, you can explore the steps to become a teacher.  We also offer supplemental licenses and administrator preparation programs.

The Elementary Education Program and the Secondary Education Program have English as a Second Language (ESL) option.

For a list of all Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) approved programs please see DPI Approved Educator Preparation Programs.

The School of Education Wisconsin Teacher Pledge can financially support your teacher education.

Teacher Pledge

Transferring from Madison College?

Students transferring from Madison College for Elementary Education or Special Education can visit the Transfer Agreement Page to learn more about transfer requirements.

School of Education-Madison College Transfer Agreement

Steps to becoming a Teacher

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1. Apply to and be admitted to a program

We’re so glad you are interested in attending UW–Madison. All of our educator preparation programs have program-specific requirements for admission. Please see the individual program links below for requirements, and apply.

All students seeking admission to a UW–Madison Teacher Preparation or Licensure program (including initial, supplemental, administrative, and pupil services programs) must complete a criminal background check. Background checks will be administered by UW–Madison through a third party service.

Transferring from Madison College? Visit the Transfer Agreement Page to learn more about transfer requirements.

2. Complete Coursework

As a student at UW–Madison School of Education, you’ll take courses from nationally-recognized faculty and staff with classmates who are highly capable, passionate, and committed to social justice.

You will have the opportunity to learn about pedagogy and learning, curriculum and lesson planning, and inclusive classrooms where all students can excel.

Our coursework will prepare you to be a competent, critically-reflective educator prepared to work toward equity in diverse and multicultural settings

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Student teacher in classroom with a young child

3. Gain Field Experience

Future teachers can get hands-on experience in authentic school settings and practice applying the content learned in coursework through field experiences. All UW–Madison Teacher Preparation Programs require multiple field experience across a variety of settings to foster growth. Each program’s culminating field experience is a full-time semester (about 18 weeks) of “student teaching.”

Throughout the experience, field supervisors in your program area will provide support, feedback, and mentorship.

4. Take Assessment and Exams

In Wisconsin, all teacher candidates must complete a final performance assessment, which is typically done during the final student teaching semester.

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Child raising hand in classroom

5. Apply for a Wisconsin Educator License

After completing all coursework, field experiences, and exams, you’ll be ready to apply for a Wisconsin educator license. Our staff will guide you through the application process.

Please note: Wisconsin teaching licenses require at least a bachelor’s degree, so undergraduate students cannot apply for a license until their degree is conferred.

6. Start Your Career

Our School of Education Career Center is eager to assist you in finding a teaching position that is right for you. And as a UW–Madison alum, you’ll be joining a large network of teachers making a difference in the lives of future generations. Stay connected to the School of Education through PLACE,  and the Early Career Teaching Institute (ECTI.) 

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