Temple University's Graduate Certificate in Middle Grades Education offers a non-degree pathway to initial teacher certification for those interested in teaching students in grades 4 through 8. This program is ideal for career changers or those currently teaching on an emergency permit who want to become certified educators in upper elementary and middle grades classrooms.

Students gain a strong foundation in instructional methods tailored to the academic standards and developmental needs of early adolescents. The curriculum emphasizes content-specific pedagogy in four key areas—English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies—alongside inclusive teaching practices for multilingual learners and students with disabilities.

This flexible, part-time program includes supervised field experiences and is designed to meet the needs of aspiring educators from diverse backgrounds and professional experiences. Graduates emerge ready to foster academic growth, critical thinking, and equity in middle grades learning environments.

Classes & Curriculum

The Middle Grades Education graduate certificate program consists of 22 credits. Choose to complete the program on a full- or part-time basis. Most classes are scheduled in the evenings to accommodate working professionals.

Fieldwork 

In addition to state certification exams and student teaching, you must complete field experiences as part of your coursework. Field placements are designed to give you teaching experience working with children in educational and non-educational settings. The majority of field experiences require students to spend seven full days over the course of a semester in the classroom. During the student teaching semester, students are required to spend every day in the classroom for 14 weeks.

Program Outcomes

Graduates will:

• Acquire subject-specific pedagogical skills in all middle grade core areas

• Demonstrate competency in supporting multilingual learners

• Deliver inclusive, culturally responsive instruction

Most courses are held on Temple’s Main Campus in Philadelphia, though some online and hybrid options are available. Courses are held in the evening starting at 5:30 p.m. You can attend full- or part-time, and you have up to four years to complete the program.

Teacher Certification

This program prepares you to successfully complete state certification exams, allowing you to apply for a Pennsylvania Instructional I Teaching Certificate. Learn more about certification.

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this graduate certificate offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,105.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,518.00 per credit

View the full cost of attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Statement of goals
• Transcripts
• Clearances required prior to field placement

How to Apply

Complete your application online at apply.temple.edu/cehd

Important Application Note
Temple University is in the process of launching a new graduate application for this certificate program. For Fall 2025 admission, applicants should select the corresponding master’s degree in Middle Grades Education when applying. After admission, our Graduate Academic Advising team will update your record to reflect enrollment in the graduate certificate program. No additional steps are required on your part.

Questions

For more information about this program, the College of Education and Human Development, how to apply for admission and your application status, contact Enrollment Management.

Enrollment Management
Ritter Annex 150
1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Phone: 215-204-8011
Email: [click-for-email]