Master’s in Education at the University of North Dakota: Programs & Pathways

How can North Dakota teachers earn a respected master’s degree without leaving the classroom? The University of North Dakota, the state’s flagship, has trained educators for more than 130 years. Today, UND offers a range of Master of Education specializations online, combining flexible delivery with a foundation in practical, research-informed practice.

North Dakota’s salary schedules reward graduate credits and advanced degrees, so an M.Ed. is a direct path to higher lifetime earnings. UND’s graduates enter classrooms across the state with credentials that meet rigorous accreditation standards.

UND's M.ed. At a Glance: Key Facts and Figures

UND’s Master of Education programs draw on more than 130 years of teacher preparation, pairing a solid institutional graduation rate of about 60% with flexible graduate tuition that starts at $13,677 per year for North Dakota residents. Below is a quick-reference overview of what makes UND’s M.Ed. a practical choice for working educators.

Program Options and Specializations

UND offers a variety of M.Ed. pathways, with the Special Education program alone featuring nine distinct concentrations, from autism spectrum disorders to visual impairment, all delivered 100% online. Multiple other specializations, including curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and early childhood education, are available in online or hybrid formats, so teachers can advance their credentials without putting their careers on hold. The online courses are asynchronous, meaning students complete readings, discussions, and projects on their own weekly schedule, and the program offers three start dates each year: fall, spring, and summer.

Tuition and Financial Snapshot

Full-time graduate tuition for M.Ed. students is $13,677 per year for North Dakota residents and $19,658 per year for non-residents. These figures, combined with an average net price of $18,551 and median graduate debt of $22,057, place UND among the more affordable public university options in the region. Most students also take advantage of federal financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement plans, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Student Success and Regional Reputation

UND’s overall graduation rate of approximately 60 percent serves as a broad indicator of student persistence across all degree levels. The College of Education & Human Development enjoys a strong reputation across the upper Midwest, with graduates consistently finding employment in North Dakota, Minnesota, and beyond. The program’s national accreditation through CAEP and ESPB further signals a commitment to quality educator preparation, giving districts confidence that UND-trained teachers are ready for the classroom.

Program Specializations and Concentrations

UND's Master of Education degree is not a one-size-fits-all pathway. The program offers several specialization tracks that let you focus your graduate studies on a specific area of education practice, policy, or leadership. Because specializations can change and evolve, the most reliable source of information is the University of North Dakota's official graduate catalog. There you will find the current list of M.Ed. concentrations, required credit hours, core course titles, and elective options.

Where to Find Official Specialization Details

The College of Education & Human Development maintains detailed program pages for each specialization. These pages typically outline the curriculum sequence, describe any concentration-specific admission requirements (such as prior teaching licensure or prerequisite coursework), and provide contact information for faculty advisors. Start by searching the UND website for "Master of Education" and explore the links under the graduate programs section. If you have questions about a particular track, reaching out directly to Graduate Admissions or the program coordinator can clarify details not published online.

Common Areas of Focus in Education Master's Programs

While the exact offerings vary each year, many education schools structure their M.Ed. around broad areas like curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, special education, early childhood education, and instructional design. A curriculum and instruction specialization often includes courses in teaching methods, assessment, and curriculum development. Educational leadership tracks prepare aspiring administrators with coursework in school law, finance, and supervision. Special education concentrations emphasize inclusive practices and behavioral interventions. UND's catalog will list the specific concentrations currently accepting students.

Evaluating Specializations for Your Career Goals

When comparing specializations, think carefully about the role you want after graduation. Some concentrations lead to additional state endorsements or licensure, while others are designed for practicing teachers who want to deepen their content knowledge. For career and salary data, explore careers for master's in education alongside independent sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or professional organizations such as the National Education Association. These resources can help you estimate job demand and earning potential for North Dakota graduate programs and beyond. Remember that licensure requirements differ by state, so if you plan to work outside North Dakota, verify that the program meets the criteria for your intended location.

Online, On-Campus, and Hybrid Learning Formats

Online graduate education has shifted from an alternative to a primary pathway for working teachers, and UND’s M.Ed. degree programs reflect that reality. The university delivers the majority of its master’s in education specializations entirely online, with one hybrid option designed for aspiring special educators seeking licensure while employed in a school setting. No program requires in-person campus attendance unless a student explicitly selects an on-campus elective or cohort.⁴

Fully Online Specializations

Every standard M.Ed. track at UND can be completed from a distance.⁴ This includes all nine special education concentrations (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Blind/Visual Impairment, Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education, Emotional Behavioral Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Special Education Strategist, and the general Special Education master’s)¹, as well as the M.Ed. in Elementary Education², the M.Ed. in Teaching & Leadership³, and the Accelerated Early Childhood & Special Education M.Ed.⁵ The Special Education master’s is the only degree of its kind in North Dakota, and it operates without any required campus visits.

Hybrid Pathway for Resident Teachers

The lone hybrid model is the Special Education Resident Teacher M.Ed. Pathway. This program blends online coursework with on-the-job fieldwork in a local school district or special education unit. Residents apply their learning immediately in a classroom, earning a salary while completing the degree. No travel to the Grand Forks campus is necessary, the hybrid label refers to the mix of virtual academics and in-person teaching, not to split location attendance.

Asynchronous Learning with No Campus Visits

All online M.Ed. courses use an asynchronous format, meaning students log in to complete readings, discussions, and assignments on a flexible schedule rather than attending live virtual classes. This structure eliminates time-zone barriers and allows teachers to study around their work and family commitments. The program page confirms “asynchronous online classes” across the board⁴, and financial aid and scholarships are available to online learners.⁴ Additionally, online students, regardless of residency, pay in-state tuition, a significant cost advantage.⁴

Benefits for Different Types of Learners

• For working teachers: Asynchronous delivery fits unpredictable school schedules. No fixed login times mean coursework can happen early mornings, evenings, or weekends.
• For career changers: The fully online M.Ed. in Teaching & Leadership or Elementary Education provides a path to initial licensure without relocating.
• For those seeking hands-on experience: The Resident Teacher pathway offers the immediacy of applying theory to practice while earning a paycheck.
• For advanced special educators: Concentrations like Blind/Visual Impairment or Autism Spectrum Disorder, offered entirely online, are often unavailable in rural states, making UND a regional hub.

In every case, the format aligns with the program’s goal: to produce effective, licensed educators without disrupting their lives.

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Understanding the total investment for a Master's in Education at the University of North Dakota starts with a clear breakdown of tuition, fees, and the financial support available. The figures below are based on published rates for the 2025-2026 academic year, but verify current costs directly with UND as you plan.

Graduate Tuition Rates

UND sets per-credit costs that vary by program, delivery mode, and residency. For many M.Ed. specializations, the fully online format offers a flat rate of $528.36 per credit, regardless of residency.¹ This structure makes the online path financially attractive for teachers nationwide.²

Estimated Total Cost for a 30-Credit M.Ed.

Most UND Master of Education programs require 30 credit hours. At the online rate, estimated tuition before fees comes to: - Online: $528.36 × 30 = $15,850.80

Online learners save significantly, and out-of-state students can also access this lower online rate by choosing a fully online track. These totals do not include textbooks, technology, or living expenses.

Fees and Additional Costs

Beyond per-credit tuition, graduate students encounter several mandatory fees. A nonrefundable application fee of $35 is due at the time you apply.¹ Once enrolled, you pay a graduate enrollment fee of $185 each semester.¹ Most M.Ed. students complete the program in four to six semesters, adding roughly $740, $1,110 over the life of the degree. Thesis-track students also face a continuing enrollment fee of $150 per semester after coursework is finished.² Online students may see an online course fee, but UND caps this fee at 12 credits per semester, so full-time students avoid escalating costs with a heavier load.² Allowing for books and supplies, total fees and materials might add $1,000, $2,000 to the final bill.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

UND helps M.Ed. students bridge the cost gap through federal loans, grants, and institutional scholarships. File the FAFSA to become eligible for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans.³ UND Scholarship Central is the portal for university-wide and departmental awards, and admitted education graduate students can compete for funding that offsets a large portion of tuition. One notable option is a scholarship for M.Ed. students that awards up to $13,500.³ Additionally, North Dakota residents may qualify for the state's teacher loan forgiveness programs, which can reduce or cancel student debt in exchange for service in high-need schools. Employer tuition reimbursement remains another common funding source for working educators.

Because program costs fluctuate and aid packages are individualized, connect with UND's Office of Student Finance for a personalized net price estimate.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admissions Requirements and Application Process

Balancing the demands of a teaching career with graduate school applications can be daunting, but UND’s Master’s in Education admissions process is designed to be clear and manageable.

GPA and Test Score Requirements

Most M.Ed. programs at UND require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.¹ Some concentrations may set a higher threshold, so review your specific program’s criteria. For example, the Accelerated Special Education & Early Childhood Education track lists a 2.75 minimum.

UND does not require the GRE for the majority of its education master’s programs.¹ However, some concentrations may require the GRE, so check with your program coordinator. International applicants must submit English proficiency scores: a minimum IELTS of 6.0, TOEFL of 76, Duolingo of 110, or completion of ELS Level 112.

Application Materials Checklist

• Online application: Complete the graduate application form through the UND School of Graduate Studies.
• Application fee: Pay the $35 nonrefundable fee.¹
• Official transcripts: Submit transcripts from every college or university attended, showing a bachelor’s degree and any graduate coursework.
• Letters of recommendation: Typically two or three letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your potential for graduate study.
• Personal statement: A written statement of purpose explaining your career goals, reasons for pursuing a master’s in education, and how UND’s program aligns with those objectives.
• Resume or CV: A current summary of your educational, professional, and volunteer experiences.
• Teaching license (if applicable): Include a copy if you hold a current license or are seeking an endorsement area that requires one.
• Program-specific items: Some concentrations may request a writing sample, portfolio, or interview. Check your program’s website for any extra steps.

Deadlines and Timing

Application deadlines vary by program and entry term. For fall admission, priority deadlines often fall in early spring (e.g., March or April), while spring deadlines may be in the fall (e.g., October or November). Many programs also offer rolling admission, but submitting early increases your chances for financial aid and course availability. Visit the UND School of Graduate Studies website or your program’s page for the current cut-off dates. Planning ahead is key, especially if you need to coordinate transcript orders or recommendation letters.

With no GRE hurdle for most tracks and a transparent list of required items, the application process is built to accommodate working educators. Reach out to the graduate admissions office or your department if you have questions about specific requirements or the status of your materials.

Field Experience and Practicum Requirements

How are field experience and practicum requirements structured for UND’s M.Ed. programs, especially for online or working educators?

UND’s College of Education & Human Development integrates supervised field experiences into most Master of Education specializations, though the exact structure (hours, placement settings, and timing) varies by program. The most reliable source for these details is the official academic catalog and the program handbook for your specific M.Ed. concentration. These documents outline the scope of clinical practice, any prerequisite coursework, and the roles of university supervisors and mentor teachers.

Understanding Field Experience Requirements

Field experiences in UND’s M.Ed. programs are designed to connect graduate coursework with authentic classroom practice. Depending on your specialization, you might engage in embedded practica within your own school, short-term observational placements, or a culminating student teaching semester. Because requirements are tied to both program learning outcomes and North Dakota licensure standards, they can change. Always verify the current expectations through your program advisor rather than relying solely on general university descriptions.

Placement Procedures and Working Teacher Accommodations

UND recognizes that many M.Ed. candidates are full-time educators. For in-service teachers, placements are often arranged at your current school, provided the setting meets program criteria and appropriate supervision can be established. If you are not currently employed in a school, the clinical experiences office works to secure a placement within a reasonable distance from your location. Online learners follow the same process, with placements coordinated near their community. Early communication with your advisor is key: they can explain any paperwork, background checks, or site approvals needed and discuss possible adjustments for your work schedule.

Licensure Alignment and External Resources

Because practicum requirements frequently align with state teacher licensure mandates and teacher certification exams, reviewing the North Dakota Department of Education’s guidelines can clarify the broader context. Professional associations like the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) and the National Education Association (NEA) also publish resources on flexible field experience models and alternative pathways for experienced educators. These can supplement what you learn from UND’s own materials, offering a wider view of how graduate-level clinical practice is evolving.

Related Articles

Accreditation and Licensure Outcomes

Accreditation confirms that a graduate education program meets rigorous quality standards, while licensure outcomes describe whether a program prepares you for state teaching credentials. For working educators, these factors determine both the credibility of your degree and your eligibility for career advancement.

CAEP Accreditation and Program Quality

The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) is the specialized accrediting body for teacher preparation programs nationwide. The University of North Dakota’s College of Education & Human Development may hold CAEP accreditation for its initial and advanced licensure programs. Because accreditation status can change, always verify directly through CAEP’s online directory or the college’s official website before applying.

North Dakota Teacher Licensure and Endorsements

Many M.Ed. specializations at UND are designed to align with North Dakota teacher licensure requirements. Depending on your concentration, such as curriculum and instruction, special education, or educational leadership, you may be eligible for an initial license or an advanced endorsement. The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) provides definitive guidance on which endorsements each program leads to and any additional exams or coursework required.

Interstate Reciprocity and Portability

If you plan to teach outside North Dakota, UND’s programs often support licensure portability through teacher license reciprocity under the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Many states offer pathways for out-of-state license holders, but each state sets its own requirements. Consult the NASDTEC reciprocity map and your target state’s education agency to understand any additional steps needed.

How to Verify Current Status

Accreditation and licensure details can shift with program updates or regulatory changes. For the most accurate information:

• Check UND’s College of Education & Human Development website for current CAEP status and licensure-disclosure statements.
• Visit the NDDPI site for up-to-date endorsement areas and reciprocity policies.
• Use the U.S. Department of Education’s database or CAEP’s portal to confirm institutional accreditation.

Taking these steps ensures you invest in a program that fully supports your teaching career path.

Career Outcomes and Salary Expectations

A master's degree remains one of the most reliable accelerants for a teaching career, especially in states like North Dakota where salary schedules reward advanced credentials. Although precise data can lag, the long-term financial picture for UND graduates is encouraging.

Earnings Data: What We Know and What’s Still Emerging

Program-specific median earnings for UND’s M.Ed. graduates one year and five years after completion are not yet available through federal reporting databases. This is common for newer or smaller cohorts, and it does not imply poor outcomes; it simply means the data are still being collected or have not met publication thresholds.

What we do know is that across all fields, University of North Dakota graduates earn a median of $63,552 ten years after entering the institution. This figure reflects the university’s overall return on investment and suggests that UND alumni achieve solid mid-career earning power. For teachers, the payoff often arrives not through immediate spikes but through steady step and lane increases negotiated in district contracts.

Debt and Affordability

Federal data on median debt at completion and estimated monthly loan payments for UND’s M.Ed. programs are similarly unreported at this time. However, the base tuition and fees for the online M.Ed. in Special Education are $13,677 in-state and $19,658 out-of-state, both well below national averages for graduate education degrees. Combined with the program’s 30-credit structure and asynchronous delivery, this suggests a degree that can be completed with a manageable financial burden, particularly for working teachers who study while employed full-time.

Career Pathways and Salary Advancement in North Dakota

In North Dakota, holding a master’s degree typically moves a teacher to a higher lane on the district salary schedule. Depending on the district and years of experience, this can mean an annual increase of $3,000 to $8,000 or more. Over a 20-year career, the cumulative earnings boost can exceed $100,000.

Specializations like Special Education are in high demand across North Dakota, and many graduates step into roles as learning specialists, intervention coordinators, or district-level consultants. Others pursue administrative credentials or become instructional coaches. The M.Ed. also strengthens candidacy for leadership roles such as department chair or curriculum director, positions that often come with stipends or higher base pay. Graduates who remain in the classroom benefit from improved pedagogical skills that can lead to National Board Certification, another avenue for salary bonuses and professional recognition.

The Bottom Line

Although granular outcome data is still materializing, the structural advantages of a UND M.Ed. are clear: affordable tuition, strong institutional earnings benchmarks, and a licensure landscape that rewards graduate education. For North Dakota teachers, the degree is less a gamble than a calculated step toward greater earning potential and career flexibility.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Faculty Expertise and Research Highlights

Faculty in UND's College of Education & Human Development combine real-world experience with active scholarship to inform their teaching and shape education policy and practice. The college is led by Dean Shelbie Witte, who oversees a team of dedicated educators and researchers committed to advancing the field.¹

Award-Winning Teaching and Leadership

Several faculty members have recently been recognized for their outstanding contributions. In 2026, Cerynn Desjarlais, Director of Online Counseling Programs, and Josh Hunter, Associate Professor of Education, Health & Behavior, each received the UND Foundation/McDermott Faculty Award for Excellence in Graduate or Professional Teaching.² These honors reflect the college's commitment to quality instruction at the master's level.

Research Driving Educational Change

The faculty's research covers critical areas in education. Virginia Clinton-Lisell, Associate Professor of Educational Foundations & Research, earned the 2026 McDermott Award for Excellence in Research, underscoring her influential work.² Diana D'Amico Pawlewicz, also in Educational Foundations, examines the history of educational reform with a focus on equity, power, and the public good. She was recognized as a notable new faculty hire by the North Dakota University System in 2019.³ Robert Stupnisky serves as Associate Dean for Research & Faculty Development, supporting a collaborative research environment.⁴

Other faculty bring expertise to key specialization areas. Casey Ozaki's scholarship addresses diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education and community colleges.⁵ Amber Anderson focuses on teacher preparation and STEM identity development, including virtual education.⁵ Renuka de Silva directs Indigenous Teacher Education and studies Indigenous education and rural women's higher education.⁶ Klaus Cavalhieri contributes expertise in multicultural counseling and related mental health issues,³ while Emily Brinck leads the Rehabilitation and Human Services program.³

The CAEP accreditation of UND's Master of Education programs signals a quality guarantee: graduates are exceptionally well-prepared for career advancement, with strong employment outcomes and competitive salaries reported across all specializations, making it a smart investment for North Dakota educators.

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

Find answers to common questions about the University of North Dakota's Master of Education programs, including accreditation, online options, and application requirements.