Your Guide to Master's in Education at The University of Montana

Montana had 1,039 unfilled teaching positions in May 2023, and the gap persists. The University of Montana’s College of Education, anchored in Missoula, has long prepared the state’s classroom and instructional leaders. Its M.Ed. draws motivated educators who need flexible, affordable graduate study.

UM’s master’s in education offers distinct specializations: curriculum and instruction, teacher leadership, and literacy education among them, each aligned with real Montana school needs. These tracks let you build expertise without relocating, thanks to hybrid and online delivery.

An M.Ed. is not just about checking a licensure box; it is a calculated investment in salary advancement and specialized roles. The numbers bear watching: tuition, completion timelines, and the hiring demand in your district all weigh heavily. For many Montana teachers, a targeted master’s is the shortest path to a pay bump and lasting career stability.

UM's M.ed. Programs: Specializations and Curriculum

What specializations are available in the University of Montana’s Master of Education programs, and how do they align with Montana licensure? The UM College of Education structures its M.Ed. through the Teaching and Learning department, offering focused areas of study that prepare you for advanced roles in schools. While not every specialization in the state is represented as a standalone M.Ed., the available tracks provide depth in curriculum leadership, special education, literacy, and administrative leadership.

Curriculum & Instruction: The Curriculum Studies M.Ed.

The Curriculum Studies track is a 30-credit program designed for licensed teachers seeking to deepen their practice. It includes 12 credits of signature content, 15 credits of core content, and a 3-credit capstone project.¹ This specialization gives you the flexibility to design a plan of study around your classroom interests, making it a strong choice for those interested in teacher leadership roles, such as curriculum development or instructional improvement in K, 12 settings.

Educational Leadership: Principal and Administrator Preparation

For educators aiming to move into school administration, the Educational Leadership M.Ed. requires 37 credits. It follows a structured sequence of 12 three-credit courses, covering school law, supervision, finance, and community relations, plus a one-credit comprehensive exam. Core courses include EDLD 502, 519, 520, 550, 551, 552, 554, 556, 559, 583, 567, and 568. This program aligns with Montana’s principal licensure standards, preparing you for roles as a principal, superintendent, or district-level leader.²

Special Education: Endorsement Only

UM offers a Special Education M.Ed. as a minor-only program that leads to a P-12 special education endorsement.³ While it is not a full standalone master’s, combining it with another M.Ed. area (like Curriculum Studies) allows you to earn a master’s degree while meeting licensure requirements for teaching students with disabilities. This is a strategic option if you want to add special education expertise without doubling your coursework.

Reading & Literacy: Literacy and Teacher Librarian Emphasis

The Teaching and Learning department includes a Literacy and Teacher Librarian concentration.⁴ This is the closest option to a dedicated Reading & Literacy M.Ed. and supports those interested in literacy coaching, library media, or reading intervention. Because the program aligns with Montana’s library media endorsement and literacy standards, graduates can pursue roles as reading specialists or school librarians, though additional endorsement exams may be required.

Music Education: Not Currently Offered

At this time, UM does not offer a Master of Education in Music Education.⁴ Educators with a music teaching background may instead consider the Curriculum Studies track and tailor electives to music education, or explore master's in education programs in Montana at other institutions that provide a dedicated music education master’s.

Each specialization carries distinct credit loads: 30 credits for Curriculum Studies, 37 for Educational Leadership, and core courses are designed to meet state licensure or endorsement requirements. You can expect a blend of theory, field-based projects, and a culminating capstone or exam that demonstrates your readiness for leadership in Montana’s schools.

Admissions Requirements and Application Deadlines

Applying to graduate school can feel like navigating a maze of forms and requirements, but The University of Montana’s M.Ed. admissions process is designed to be transparent and streamlined. While each program has its own nuances, the core components share a common thread: they focus on your academic readiness and professional commitment rather than standardized test scores.

GPA and Test Score Expectations

A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is typically expected¹, though applications are reviewed holistically. If your GPA falls below this threshold, strong professional experience or a compelling statement can still make you a competitive candidate. Both the M.Ed. in Teaching & Learning² and Educational Leadership³ programs have adopted a test-optional policy, meaning no no GRE is required. For the Teaching & Learning program, you may submit an optional 500-word essay or alternative evidence like the GRE or MAT if you wish to strengthen your application, but it is not mandatory².

Required Application Materials

The application process is conducted entirely online and requires a $70 nonrefundable fee². You will need to submit: - Official transcripts: From all previously attended institutions, demonstrating a completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university¹. - Letters of recommendation: The Teaching & Learning program asks for three letters², while Educational Leadership requires two³. Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic capabilities and professional potential. - Statement of purpose or essay: For Teaching & Learning, a letter of intent outlining your goals is required². Educational Leadership requires a 200-word essay or cover letter explaining your interest in the program³. - Resume or CV: A current document highlighting your professional and educational background²³.

These elements give the admissions committee a well-rounded view of your qualifications and motivations.

Deadlines and Review Process

Deadlines vary by program. The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership operates on a rolling admission basis, with applications reviewed monthly on the second Wednesday³; you can start in fall, spring, or summer, but early submission is advised as cohorts may fill. For the M.Ed. in Teaching & Learning, specific application deadlines correspond to each term² (fall, spring, summer). It is best to check the program’s webpage for the most current cutoff dates. In all cases, applying early increases your chances of securing a spot and allows time to arrange financial aid.

Additional Considerations

Neither program requires an interview for admission³. Prerequisite coursework is generally not mandated beyond holding a bachelor’s degree²³, though certain specializations may recommend prior professional or academic experience in education. If you have questions about your specific background, the graduate program coordinator can provide guidance before you apply.

Questions to Ask Yourself

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What Does a UM M.ed. Cost? Tuition and Financial Aid

Investing in a master's degree means balancing immediate costs against long-term career benefits. The University of Montana's M.Ed. programs carry clear price tags, but financial aid strategies can dramatically change what you actually pay.

Tuition and Fees at a Glance

UM bills graduate tuition per credit, plus mandatory fees. For the 2026-2027 academic year, in-state students pay $346 per credit¹ plus a $35 per-credit College of Education program fee². Out-of-state students pay $1,440 per credit³ plus the same program fee. Mandatory campus fees add roughly $180-190 per credit¹. Online courses include a small $10 per-credit technology fee⁴.

• In-state (on campus): ~$571 per credit when combining tuition, program fee, and mandatory fees.
• Out-of-state (on campus): ~$1,665 per credit with the same fee structure.

Most M.Ed. programs require 30-36 credits¹. Total estimated program costs break down as follows:

• In-state, 30 credits: $16,980¹
• In-state, 36 credits: $20,376¹
• Out-of-state, 30 credits: $49,950³
• Out-of-state, 36 credits: $59,940³

Books and supplies add about $2,046 per year¹. For a full 30-credit program, expect total academic costs in the range of $21,000-$22,000 for in-state students¹ and $54,000-$55,000 for out-of-state students³.

Online M.Ed. Costs

Online learners pay a single per-credit rate that bundles many fees. In-state online students are charged $576 per credit⁴, while out-of-state online students pay $1,675 per credit³. These rates apply to fully online M.Ed. specializations and offer the same curriculum as on-campus programs with added scheduling flexibility.

Financial Aid and Funding Opportunities

UM offers several ways to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

• Graduate assistantships: Competitive positions that provide a stipend and may include a full tuition waiver. Working 10-20 hours per week in research or administrative roles can cover a significant portion of costs.⁵
• TEACH Grant: Eligible education students can receive up to $4,000 per year. This grant requires teaching in a high-need field at a low-income school for at least four years after graduation. If the service obligation is not met, the grant converts to a federal loan.⁶
• Federal loans: UM participates in the Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS loan programs. These carry fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options. Many students combine loans with grants or assistantships.⁶
• University fellowships and M.Ed. scholarships: The College of Education and the Graduate School award merit- and need-based fellowships. Check program-specific pages for deadlines and eligibility.⁵

Montana's relatively low in-state tuition, making this an affordable M.Ed. option, combined with a graduate assistantship can bring the net cost well below the published figures. Out-of-state students should explore assistantships or online pathways to manage expenses.

Online, Hybrid, and On-Campus: How to Earn Your M.ed. At UM

Can I complete a University of Montana M.Ed. entirely online, or will I need to attend classes in Missoula? The answer depends on your chosen specialization, but UM has designed its graduate education programs to fit the lives of working professionals. Most pathways are available fully online and asynchronous, while a few combine digital and face-to-face elements.

Flexible Online and Hybrid Options for Working Teachers

The majority of UM’s education master’s programs are built for convenience. Online courses are typically asynchronous, meaning you log in on your schedule rather than at set meeting times. Many classes run in accelerated 8-week terms, letting you focus on one or two subjects at a time while still making steady progress toward your degree. This structure is especially valuable for teachers balancing classroom responsibilities, coaching, or family commitments.

Program Formats: Which Specializations Go Where

• M.A. in Education: Fully online and self-paced within term dates, this degree allows you to choose from multiple emphasis areas such as curriculum and instruction or teacher leadership. No campus visits are required.
• M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning: Delivered entirely online, with specializations like curriculum and instruction, teacher leadership, and more. The asynchronous design supports teachers across Montana and beyond.
• M.Ed. in Educational Leadership: Offered in an online/hybrid format. While the majority of coursework can be completed remotely, some class sessions or field-based experiences may incorporate in-person components, especially for principal licensure tracks.
• M.Ed. , Teacher Librarian: This program is fully online, preparing school library media specialists without any on-campus obligation.
• Early Childhood Education (P, 3 endorsement): This 36-credit program includes on-campus and/or hybrid elements, reflecting the hands-on nature of early learning. Expect to engage in some face-to-face instruction or practica in Missoula or partner sites.

Pacing Your Degree: Full-Time vs. Part-Time

Most part-time learners finish in about two years by taking six to nine credits per term (including summers). For those who want to move faster, several specializations offer an accelerated one-year track if you can handle a full-time course load. The university gives you up to six years to complete the M.A. in Education, providing plenty of breathing room if life gets busy.

No Residency Requirements for Fully Online Programs

If you enroll in a 100% online track, such as the M.A. in Education, M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning, or Teacher Librarian program, you will never need to step foot on campus. Advising, library services, and tech support are all accessible remotely. Even hybrid options like Educational Leadership keep in-person obligations to a minimum, often scheduling intensive weekends or summer institutes rather than weekly commutes. This flexibility makes a UM master’s in education reachable from anywhere in Montana or across state lines.

Is UM's College of Education Accredited?

The University of Montana’s College of Education holds accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the national standard for teacher education programs.¹ This accreditation, confirmed for the 2024-2025 cycle, runs through December 31, 2027, with a scheduled site visit for reaccreditation in Spring 2027.² Additionally, the college’s teacher preparation programs are approved by the Montana Board of Public Education, ensuring they meet state requirements for licensure.³

Why Accreditation Matters for Your Career

CAEP accreditation signals that a program meets rigorous standards for curriculum, clinical experiences, and candidate outcomes. For graduates, this national accreditation smooths the path to teacher licensure in Montana and across the country. Most states require completion of a regionally accredited and nationally recognized program for initial licensure, and many honor CAEP accreditation through reciprocity agreements. This means you can often transfer your credentials more easily if you decide to teach in another state. Employers, from public school districts to private charters, frequently prefer or require candidates to hold a degree from an accredited institution, as it assures them you have been prepared to meet today’s classroom challenges.

State Approval and Program-Specific Credentials

Beyond CAEP, the college’s educator preparation programs carry the approval of Montana’s Board of Public Education,³ a crucial step for any graduate seeking a Montana teaching license. This state-level approval confirms that the coursework and field experiences align with the specific expectations of Montana schools. For those pursuing advanced roles, certain specializations hold additional, program-specific accreditation. For example, the master’s-level counseling program in the Department of Counselor Education is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP),³ a mark of quality that can streamline the path to professional counseling licensure. Always verify with your department whether your chosen concentration carries a similar specialized credential, as it can boost your standing with licensing boards and employers alike.

Career Paths and Salaries for UM M.ed. Graduates

Teacher retention and school leadership pipelines remain two of the most urgent challenges facing Montana districts today. A master’s in education from the University of Montana prepares graduates to step directly into these critical roles, with strong employment outcomes and competitive salaries.

Typical Earnings for UM M.Ed. Graduates

Federal outcomes data shows that recent graduates of UM’s Curriculum & Instruction M.Ed. program earn a median annual salary of $44,511. Earnings in educational leadership and reading specialist pathways can range higher as graduates move into administrative or specialized positions. While program-level salary breakdowns are not yet tracked for all specializations, these figures align with the state’s need for advanced-degree educators: Montana school districts actively recruit master’s-prepared teachers and leaders, and salaries often increase with graduate credits and added endorsements.

Where UM M.Ed. Graduates Work

A striking 80% of UM M.Ed. graduates stay in Montana¹, and 95% secure employment within the first year. The most common employers are Montana K-12 school districts, followed by regional education service agencies, state education entities, and a growing number of higher education institutions¹. Graduates fill roles such as teacher leader, curriculum specialist, instructional coordinator, reading specialist, and licensed principal. The M.Ed. in Educational Leadership track specifically readies candidates for P-12 administrative licensure, opening pathways to assistant principal and principal positions across the state.

Career Support During and After Your Program

UM’s Career Services office provides dedicated support tailored to educators. Students and alumni can access career fairs, one-on-one advising, resume and cover‑letter reviews, interview workshops, and a curated job board². The alumni network, praised by students for its strength, offers ongoing mentorship and connections into Montana’s tight‑knit education community. For those considering doctoral work, the college provides advising on Ph.D. applications, research opportunities, and preparation of application materials³, with outcomes tracked using NACE standards and graduation surveys six months post‑graduation².

University of Montana Vs. Other Montana M.ed. Programs

When comparing graduate education programs across Montana, The University of Montana distinguishes itself through specialized tracks that serve rural communities and a strong literacy education focus. While other state institutions offer broad graduate degrees, UM’s M.Ed. programs are designed for educators seeking targeted professional growth and licensure advancement.

Specializations and Focus Areas

The University of Montana’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction offers concentrations in curriculum studies, early childhood education, library media services, literacy education, and special education.¹ Notably, the Reading & Literacy concentration provides intensive preparation for literacy specialists, a niche that is less common among Montana graduate programs. UM also offers an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership that leads to a Montana Class 3 Administrative License and K-12 Principal endorsement, along with a research-oriented Master of Arts in Education for those considering doctoral study.

Montana State University (MSU) provides a different set of specializations through its M.Ed. in Adult and Higher Education, with tracks in adult education, higher education, and student affairs. MSU’s M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction includes a Professional Educator track (fully online) and an Educational Researcher track focused on rural communities and Native American populations. These options give students diverse pathways, with MSU emphasizing adult learning and postsecondary settings while UM centers on K-12 classroom teaching and school leadership.

Delivery Formats and Flexibility

Both universities offer fully online options. UM’s M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction and M.Ed. in Educational Leadership are delivered entirely online, making them accessible to working teachers across Montana’s vast rural areas.¹ MSU’s Adult and Higher Education M.Ed. is available in multiple formats: face-to-face, synchronous online, asynchronous online, and hybrid, offering flexibility for different schedules.² MSU’s Curriculum and Instruction Professional Educator track is also 100% online, while the Educational Researcher track requires some on-campus components but allows core courses online.³

Career Preparation and Outcomes

UM’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership directly prepares graduates for the Montana Class 3 Administrative License, a clear pathway to principal and superintendent roles. The total program cost for this 37-credit degree is approximately $24,624. MSU’s Adult and Higher Education program maps to careers in community education, nonprofit training, student affairs, and higher education administration. Both universities report strong job placement, though program-level earnings data is not yet available for direct comparison.

Unique Strengths of UM’s Programs

The University of Montana’s M.Ed. programs are anchored by faculty with deep expertise in rural education and a curriculum that addresses the challenges of Montana’s schools. The Reading & Literacy concentration is a distinctive offering, equipping teachers to address literacy gaps in underserved areas. Additionally, UM awarded over $130,000 in scholarships to education graduate students, underscoring its commitment to affordability.¹ While MSU’s research track focuses on rural and Native American communities, UM’s approach integrates these priorities across all specializations, reinforcing its role as a leader in Montana’s educational landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About UM's M.ed. Programs

Prospective graduate students often ask about admissions, licensure, and program structure at the University of Montana. Below we address the most frequent inquiries to help you navigate UM's M.Ed. options and make an informed decision.

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