“Alternative” means this is a different path into teaching than traditional master’s or post-bacc programs. In New Mexico, approved alternative teacher education programs let you start teaching in a classroom while you finish the coursework and training to earn your teaching license. 

Some programs are license-only, while others—like certain residency models—let you earn a master’s degree as part of your training. Because these programs are built around classroom experience, many programs offer a stipend or paycheck while you learn, though it is not guaranteed.

This could be a great fit if you: 

• Want to start teaching as soon as possible
• Are comfortable learning on the job while completing your training
• Hope to earn a stipend or salary as part of your program (varies by program)

Visit our alternative pathways to teaching page to find out more. 

Use your professional or industry experience to teach technical or career-focused subjects, such as welding, cosmetology, business and marketing, health sciences, computer programming or construction, just to name a few! This pathway lets you share your real-world skills while helping students prepare for careers.  

This could be a great fit if you: 

• Have experience in a skilled trade or technical field
• Want to bring your expertise into the classroom
• Enjoy helping students build career-ready skills

Visit our Career and Technical Education page to learn more. 

If you speak a Native language you can apply for the Native American Language & Culture teaching license. 

Native New Mexican languages are taught in many public, tribally-run and Bureau of Indian Education schools, where students often speak one of eight Native languages at home. 

Many public schools offer Native language programs, with revitalization efforts helping to expand these opportunities.

This could be a great fit if you: 

• Are fluent in Native language
• Want to help Native languages thrive by sharing them with students.
• Want to bring your expertise into the classroom

Jump to more details!

It depends! Most post-grad teaching programs take one to two years, depending on your chosen subject and whether you’re earning a master’s. In some cases, you’ll be teaching and earning a salary while you earn your license. 

The cost of becoming a teacher can vary depending on the program you choose and the license you’re working toward. Some programs, such as master’s degree programs, allow you to use traditional financial aid. Other programs actually pay you.  Learn more on our teacher training costs & financial aid page. 

Along with tuition, you can expect additional expenses like your license application fee, background check and required exams. TEACH New Mexico will help you cover up to $100 of your application or enrollment expenses! Get the details by visiting our fee reimbursements page.  

If your bachelor’s degree is in a different subject than the one you want to teach, don’t worry. You may need to take a few additional courses before you enroll in a teaching program. A post-baccalaureate, or “post-bac,” program through a college or university can help you earn the subject-area credits you need. 

Each teaching program sets its own requirements, so it’s a good idea to check how many credits you’ll need in the subject you plan to teach. 

As a New Mexico educator, your pay will depend on your years of experience and where you work. In 2025, the average starting salary for New Mexico teachers is $53,400. (1)

You can increase your salary with added credentials, such as a master’s degree. If you’ve taught for at least three years, you can also earn more with National Board Certification.

Learn more about New Mexico teacher pay and benefits.