Middle School Education A.A. and A.S. Degrees

Become a middle school teacher

Middle school teachers are trained in both the fundamentals of education and a specific academic discipline that is taught in grades 5–8. This program will prepare you to transfer to a university where you will complete the coursework to earn your middle school teaching license.

At Harper College, you will earn either an Associate in Arts (A.A.) or Associate in Science (A.S.), depending on your desired transfer institution. See your academic advisor for details.

Start at Harper. Finish at a four-year university.

The Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor's degree. Speak with your advisor about the best courses to take to meet your academic goals. It is suggested that first semester students who want to pursue middle level education take EDU 201 to learn about the profession and to complete their Academic Plan.

Harper also offers institution-specific transfer information to help prepare you to transition to a bachelor's program at a four-year university. To learn more, visit our Transfer Information page or see your advisor.

Become a licensed STEM teacher for grades 5-12

Expand diversity in the field of STEM education through the Noyce Teacher PRIDE Scholars Program that awards Harper graduates $15,000 annually for two years to complete a STEM degree at Elmhurst University. Applications from a wide range of diverse communities are encouraged. Learn more and apply today.

Explore middle school education careers

Learn more about career outcomes for Harper's Middle School Education degree programs. Each career profile offers a complete picture on the local job market, including salaries, open positions, top local employers and more. To learn more, visit our Middle School Education Careers page.

Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education career profile for most current data.

$76,649
Median Salary

2.2%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

142
Job Postings

Description:

Teach one or more subjects to students at the middle, intermediate, or junior high school level.

Core tasks:

Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.
Observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.
Instruct through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in one or more subjects, such as English, mathematics, or social studies.
Prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments to evaluate students' progress.

Quick facts:

Resources

For more information about starting your middle level education degree at Harper, please contact Admissions Outreach at 847.925.6700 or fill out our request information form.