Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Minnesota

Its top-ranked school districts, educated workforce, and forward-thinking teacher training programs reflect Minnesota’s commitment to high-quality education. Yet challenges persist even in this strong educational climate, especially in rural districts and high-need subjects like special education, ESL, and STEM. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, over 2,500 teacher vacancies were reported statewide during the 2023–24 school year.

For current educators and career changers alike, earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) in Minnesota offers a pathway to professional growth, salary advancement, and expanded teaching opportunities. Whether you’re working in the Twin Cities or a rural community, there are flexible options across the state—including online, hybrid, and campus-based programs—to help meet your goals.

This guide explores top-ranked M.Ed. programs in Minnesota, fast-track options, affordable degrees, licensure-focused programs, and career prospects for graduates.

Minnesota is home to prestigious research universities and regional institutions that offer M.Ed. programs aligned with state licensure requirements and professional standards. All featured schools are regionally accredited, and many are CAEP-accredited.

2026 Best Master's in Education Degree Programs in Minnesota

Looking for the best Master's in Education degree programs in Minnesota? mastersineducation.org has you covered with our expert rankings. We evaluate schools based on factors like affordability, accreditation, and student outcomes to help you make an informed choice. Our team works hard to provide reliable and up-to-date information, so you can trust our picks for top programs in the state. For details on how we rank these programs, check out our methodology at https://mastersineducation.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

Southwest Minnesota State University

Marshall, MN - Public 4-Year - smsu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Education (Teaching, Learning)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Southwest Minnesota State University's Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Teaching, Learning is an online program designed for working educators. It focuses on enhancing instructional practices, research-based strategies, and leadership skills, integrating National Board of Professional Teaching Standards. The program offers flexible formats, affordable in-state tuition, and financial aid options. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, and no entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level program.

  • Online and on-campus options
  • Multiple concentration areas
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • National Board Standards integrated
  • Affordable in-state tuition
  • Flexible learning formats
  • Leadership skill development

Master's - Master of Science in Education (Technology for Training and Learning)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Technology for Training and Learning concentration at Southwest Minnesota State University is a fully online Master of Science in Education program. It prepares professionals to use multimedia tools, learning management systems, and collaborative technologies in educational and corporate settings. Ideal for educators and business trainers, the program emphasizes practical applications and flexible scheduling. No entrance exam is specified as required for this master's level degree.

  • Fully online program
  • Flexible course scheduling
  • Technology integration focus
  • Business and education applications
  • Multimedia skill development

Master's - Master of Science in Education (Community & Technical College Teaching and Learning)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Southwest Minnesota State University offers a Master of Science in Education concentration in Community & Technical College Teaching and Learning, available online or through learning communities. It integrates National Board Standards, focusing on instructional practices and leadership for community and technical college educators. With affordable in-state tuition and financial aid options, admission requires a 3.0 GPA, and no entrance exam is indicated as necessary for this master's program.

  • Online and learning community options.
  • Focus on Community & Technical College Teaching.
  • Integrates National Board of Professional Teaching Standards.
  • Affordable in-state tuition for nearly everyone.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • 3.0 GPA required for admission.
  • Provisional admission options.
  • Focus on instructional practices and leadership.
  • Designed for community and technical college educators.
  • Accessible to U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens.

Master's - Master of Science in Education (English)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The English concentration in the Master of Science in Education at Southwest Minnesota State University is designed for educators to improve teaching and leadership skills. Available online or in learning communities, it incorporates National Board Standards and current research. The program features affordable tuition, financial aid like the Teach Grant, and a 3.0 GPA admission requirement. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level offering.

  • Online and on-campus options.
  • Concentration in English available.
  • Affordable graduate tuition rates.
  • In-state tuition for nearly everyone.
  • Federal Aid and scholarships available.
  • Teach Grant and Loan Forgiveness.
  • 3.0 GPA required for admission.
  • Provisional admission options.
  • National Board Standards integrated.
  • Focus on leadership and research.
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#2

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN - Public 4-Year - twin-cities.umn.edu

Master's - Early Childhood Education MEd (Licensure)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Minnesota's Early Childhood Education MEd with Licensure program delivers comprehensive training for educators specializing in birth-to-third-grade instruction. Graduates gain robust developmental psychology insights and practical teaching methodologies through intensive coursework and dual student teaching experiences. The program uniquely offers direct Minnesota teaching licensure without prerequisite requirements, ensuring seamless professional entry. Applicants must maintain a minimum 2.80 undergraduate GPA and benefit from potential financial aid opportunities. Program highlights include 100% job placement rates and developmentally appropriate curriculum design, positioning graduates for immediate educational leadership roles.

  • Minnesota teaching licensure birth-3rd grade
  • Two student teaching experiences
  • No prerequisite courses needed
  • 100% job placement rate
  • Master's degree with licensure
  • Developmentally appropriate curriculum
  • Minimum 2.80 undergraduate GPA required
  • Financial aid opportunities available

Master's - MEd in Leadership in Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Minnesota's MEd in Leadership in Education cultivates transformative educational professionals through a strategic online curriculum. Designed for ambitious educators seeking systemic impact, the program explores organizational dynamics, leadership strategies, and innovative change management. Notably, the program waives GRE requirements and welcomes students with a 2.80 GPA, offering maximum flexibility with 9 transferable credits. Graduates can pursue diverse career paths including instructional coaching, administrative roles, and educational consulting, gaining advanced skills to reshape learning environments effectively.

  • Online graduate education program
  • Minimum 16 credits required
  • No GRE scores needed
  • 2.8 undergraduate GPA required
  • Diverse career pathways available
  • Maximum 9 transfer credits allowed
  • Electives with advisor approval
  • Focuses on organizational leadership
  • Prepares educational change agents

Master's - Master of Education, Professional Studies in Learning Technologies

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Education in Learning Technologies provides a cutting-edge digital education pathway for technology-focused professionals. This comprehensive 30+ credit online program explores multimedia design, technological integration, and advanced learning strategies. With competitive per-credit pricing and flexible admission standards requiring a 2.80 GPA, the curriculum attracts global learners seeking technological innovation in education. Students develop expertise in transforming pedagogical practices through digital platforms, preparing for diverse technology-enhanced educational roles across multiple professional settings.

  • Fully online graduate degree
  • 30+ total credits required
  • 2.80 minimum admission GPA
  • Flexible learning technology focus
  • Multiple application deadlines
  • Diverse career opportunities
  • College of Education program
  • No on-campus requirement
  • Twin Cities campus affiliation

Master's - MEd in Special Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Minnesota's MEd in Special Education offers comprehensive training for educators committed to supporting diverse student populations. Through a hybrid program combining online coursework and community-based experiences, students can pursue specialized licensures addressing academic, behavioral, and developmental learning needs. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, collaborative problem-solving, and individualized instruction for students from infancy through age 21. With multiple licensure paths and 100% job placement, graduates are equipped to make significant impacts in special education environments.

  • 2.5 years average completion
  • 100% online course delivery
  • 100% job placement after licensure
  • Multiple specialized licensure paths
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Field experiences in community
  • IDEAL Problem Solving Model
  • Minimum 30 credits required
  • Supports working professionals
  • Evidence-based teaching practices

Master's - Elementary Education MEd & Teaching License

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Elementary Education MEd and Teaching License program provides an accelerated 13-month pathway to K-6 teaching licensure. Combining rigorous academic preparation with extensive student teaching experiences, the program prioritizes social justice principles and pedagogical excellence. With an impressive 97.3% job placement rate, graduates can potentially increase annual salaries by $7,000. The hybrid format accommodates working professionals, requiring a 2.80 GPA and offering GRE-optional admission. Unique features include the Teacher Scholars of Color program and diverse teaching experiences.

  • 13-month accelerated program
  • K-6 Minnesota teaching license
  • 97.3% job placement rate
  • Potential $7,000 salary increase
  • Social justice-oriented curriculum
  • Hybrid learning format
  • GPA requirement: 2.80
  • No GRE required
  • Diverse student teaching experience
  • Teacher Scholars of Color program

Master's - MNGOT: K-6 Elementary Education MEd & Teaching License

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • Two-year, 36-credit program
  • Hybrid coursework format
  • Generous tuition scholarships
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Initial K-6 teaching licensure
  • Monthly in-person weekend sessions
  • University mentoring support
  • Flexible student teaching options
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#3

Martin Luther College

New Ulm, MN - Private 4-year - mlc-wels.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Education (Educational Technology)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Martin Luther College's online Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Educational Technology equips educators to integrate innovative digital tools into teaching. This program focuses on developing leadership skills and customizing learning experiences, with flexible completion in 2-7 years. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for professionals seeking to advance in educational technology roles.

  • 100% Online Degree
  • Customize Technology Education
  • Flexible Completion Timeline
  • Technology Leadership Focus
  • Emerging Tech Exploration

Master's - Master of Science in Education – Special Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

Martin Luther College offers an online Master of Science in Education emphasizing Special Education, designed to support diverse student needs. The program includes up to 21 elective credits for customization and can be completed in as little as two years. No entrance exam is required, providing flexibility for current teachers to enhance their skills in addressing learning and behavioral challenges.

  • 100% Online Degree
  • Flexible Elective Credits
  • Customizable Program Structure
  • Serve Diverse Student Needs
  • Complete in Two Years

Master's - Master of Science in Education – Special Education with MN Learning Disabilities Licensure (MN Learning Disabilities Licensure)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Martin Luther College's online Master of Science in Education with a concentration in MN Learning Disabilities Licensure prepares educators for special education roles, including a 12-week internship and state licensure tests. Tailored for WELS schools, it offers pathways for current teachers or undergraduates. No entrance exam is required, facilitating an accelerated route to advanced credentials.

  • Minnesota Learning Disabilities Licensure
  • 12-week internship included
  • Designed for WELS teachers
  • Stand-alone or add-on license option
  • Accelerated graduate pathway
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#4

Hamline University

Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - hamline.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Hamline University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program offers a hybrid format, preparing students to become transformative educators without requiring an entrance exam. Focused on creating equitable learning environments, it spans 12 licensure areas and can be completed in 18-24 months. With a cost of $610 per credit, 90% of students receive scholarships. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, educational psychology, and cultural diversity, making it ideal for working professionals seeking initial licensure.

  • Hybrid and online format
  • 12 Minnesota teaching licenses
  • 18-24 months to complete
  • No prerequisites required
  • $610 per credit
  • 90% receive scholarships
  • Flexible evening courses
  • Practitioner-researcher approach
  • Cultural diversity focus
  • Comprehensive foundational coursework

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Adult Basic Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Hamline University's MAT program with a concentration in Adult Basic Education uses a hybrid approach to train educators for impactful careers in adult education, with no entrance exam required. It features flexible admission, no prerequisites, and competitive tuition with financial aid. The program blends online and on-campus courses, focusing on tailored licensure and building a professional network for community impact.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Focus on Adult Basic Education.
  • No prerequisites required.
  • Competitive tuition rates.
  • Generous financial aid available.
  • Flexible admission requirements.
  • Tailored licensure coursework.
  • Join a vast professional network.
  • Prepares for impactful teaching careers.
  • Blend of online and on-campus courses.

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education K–6)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The MAT program at Hamline University, specializing in Elementary Education K-6, prepares educators through a hybrid format with no entrance exam needed. It emphasizes equity-focused strategies, literacy, and inclusive practices over 18-24 months. At $610 per credit, 90% of students receive aid, and the program leads to initial licensure, fostering dynamic classroom environments for young learners.

  • Flexible online/hybrid format
  • No prerequisites required
  • Initial teaching licensure K-6
  • $610 per credit
  • 18-24 months to complete
  • 90% receive financial aid
  • Equity-focused curriculum
  • Professional network of educators
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#5

Concordia University-Saint Paul

Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - csp.edu

Master's - Teaching (MAT)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Concordia University-Saint Paul's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a 36-credit campus-based program designed for career changers seeking K-6 teacher licensure. It emphasizes advanced pedagogical skills, diverse classroom strategies, and hands-on clinical experiences, preparing graduates for elementary education roles. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, making it accessible for aspiring educators.

  • K-6 Teacher Licensure Program
  • 36 Total Credit Hours
  • Initial or Add-On License
  • Diverse Classroom Teaching
  • Clinical Experience Included

Master's - Master of Arts in Educational Technology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Concordia University-Saint Paul offers a 30-credit Master of Arts in Educational Technology online, completed in 20 months. Focused on digital teaching and technology integration, it provides affordable tuition at $145 per month with no GRE or thesis requirements. This program enhances skills for educational technology leadership and career advancement, ideal for working educators.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 30 Major Credits
  • 20 Month Completion
  • Competitive $145/month Tuition
  • No Thesis or GRE Required
  • Asynchronous Cohort Learning
  • 8-Week Course Format
  • Technology Integration Focus
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Professional Development Emphasis
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#6

Winona State University

Winona, MN - Public 4-Year - winona.edu

Master's - Education Leadership

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Winona State University's Education Leadership master's degree is a hybrid 33-credit program designed for educators aiming to become effective school leaders in birth-grade 12 settings. It emphasizes advanced skills in curriculum development, educational technology, student assessment, and administrative practices, offering pathways for K-12 Principal licensure or customized electives. The program requires a capstone project and does not specify an entrance exam requirement, making it accessible for working professionals seeking career advancement and school improvement.

  • 33-credit master's degree
  • Two pathway options
  • K-12 Principal licensure track
  • Hybrid program format
  • Capstone writing project required
  • Professional leadership focus
  • Multiple career advancement areas
#7

Bethel University

Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - bethel.edu

Master's - M.A. in Education K-12 with Educational Leadership Concentration (Educational Leadership)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Bethel University's M.A. in Education K-12 with Educational Leadership Concentration is an online program focused on developing transformative leaders in K-12 settings. It emphasizes communication, collaboration, and ethical practices, integrating faith with professional skills. The 33-credit curriculum includes research-based strategies and practical leadership techniques, approved by Minnesota PELSB. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for working educators to complete in as few as 18 months.

  • Fully online program
  • 33 total credits
  • Complete in 18 months
  • Minnesota PELSB approved
  • Integrates faith and leadership
  • Focuses on educational leadership
  • Multicultural responsive instruction
  • Thesis/research project option
  • Differentiated teaching strategies
  • Leadership theory foundations

Master's - M.A. in Teaching

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Bethel University's M.A. in Teaching is a hybrid program offering initial teaching licensure across multiple content areas. It blends online and in-person learning, completed in 17-23 months, with a focus on faith-based perspectives and evidence-based instruction. The program does not require an entrance exam and boasts high licensure exam pass rates, preparing educators for diverse classrooms through field experiences and technology integration.

  • Blended learning format
  • 17-23 month completion
  • Estimated tuition $20,520-$21,090
  • Initial teaching license
  • 10 different content areas
  • Faith-based educational approach
  • Field experiences included
  • Dual licensure option
  • Christian perspective integration
  • Supportive faculty mentorship
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#8

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Winona, MN - Private 4-year - smumn.edu

Master's - M.A. in Education (Curriculum and Instruction)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota offers an online M.A. in Education with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction, ideal for licensed teachers aiming to advance their expertise. This 30-credit program, costing $575 per credit and completable in about 1.5 years, focuses on culturally responsive teaching, curriculum design, and student assessment. It does not require an entrance exam, providing flexibility for working professionals through asynchronous online learning.

  • Fully online asynchronous program
  • 30 credit hours total
  • $575 per credit
  • 1.5 year completion time
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • Curriculum and Instruction focus
  • Designed for licensed teachers
  • Culturally responsive teaching
  • Flexible learning options

Master's - Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota provides an online Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology, designed for educators to enhance digital learning experiences. This 30-credit program, at $580 per credit and spanning 20 months, emphasizes educational technology, learning analytics, and project-based learning without requiring an entrance exam. It is accessible with a minimum 2.75 GPA and no prerequisite coursework, catering to professionals in various educational settings.

  • Fully online 30-credit program
  • 20-month program completion
  • $580 per credit tuition
  • No course papers required
  • Ed Tech tools learned/applied
  • Designed by K-12 educators
  • Two graduate certificates available
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
  • No campus residency needed
  • Project-based learning experience
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#9

Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, MN - Public 4-Year - mnsu.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Minnesota State University-Mankato's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a 34-credit hybrid program preparing educators for K-12 or 5-12 licensure. It integrates equity-based learning, technology, and practical field experiences, with a CAEP-accredited curriculum. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 2.75 GPA; no entrance exam is specified. The program emphasizes job-embedded teaching and research methods, offering flexible options for diverse learning environments.

  • 34 total graduate credits
  • Hybrid learning format
  • CAEP accredited program
  • K-12 and 5-12 licensure options
  • Job-embedded teaching option
  • Equity-focused curriculum
  • Technology integration courses
  • Comprehensive student teaching
  • Diverse learning environments
  • Research methods training
#10

Bemidji State University

Bemidji, MN - Public 4-Year - bemidjistate.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bemidji State University's Master of Arts in Teaching is a 30-credit graduate program focusing on advanced professional development for educators. It emphasizes cohort-based learning, educational research, and culturally responsive pedagogy, with opportunities for individualized action research and a capstone project. The program does not require an entrance exam and is designed for current teachers seeking additional certification pathways, requiring a 3.00 undergraduate GPA and two recommendation letters for admission.

  • 30 total credit program
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Individualized action research
  • 3.00 undergraduate GPA required
  • Two recommendation letters needed
  • Fall semester cohort entry
  • In-state tuition rates
  • Potential graduate assistantships
  • Capstone project completion
*IPEDS 2024, U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics.

Learn more about our methodology

Fastest M.Ed. Programs in Minnesota

For educators looking to move forward quickly, Minnesota offers accelerated M.Ed. options that can be completed in as little as one year.

SchoolSpecialtyProgram LengthFormat
Concordia University, St. PaulCurriculum & Instruction12–16 monthsOnline
St. Mary’s UniversityLearning Design & Technology12–18 monthsOnline
Minnesota State Univ., MankatoReading16 monthsHybrid
University of MinnesotaEarly Childhood Education16–18 monthsHybrid
Winona State UniversityLeadership Education12–18 monthsHybrid
Bemidji State UniversitySpecial Education12–16 monthsOnline

Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in Minnesota

Many budget-friendly education degrees in Minnesota are offered through state universities and colleges, with in-state tuition keeping costs reasonable.

SchoolSpecialtyTuition RangeFormat
Minnesota State Univ., MankatoInstructional Leadership$11,000–$13,000Hybrid
Winona State UniversityCurriculum & Instruction$12,000–$14,000Campus
Bemidji State UniversitySpecial Education$11,500–$13,500Online
Southwest Minnesota State Univ.Reading & Literacy$12,000–$14,000Online
St. Cloud State UniversityEducational Leadership$13,000–$15,000Hybrid
Concordia University, St. PaulELL (TESOL)$14,000–$15,500Online

What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to Minnesota Teacher Licensure?

In Minnesota, aspiring teachers can earn their initial teaching license through a state-approved graduate program. These programs include coursework in pedagogy and assessment, plus clinical placements in schools.

To complete the teaching certification process, you typically need to:

  • Enroll in a Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB)-approved M.Ed. program
  • Pass the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE)
  • Complete a student teaching experience
  • Pass a background check
  • Apply for licensure via the Minnesota PELSB portal

Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in Minnesota?

Yes—educators throughout the state can access online master’s in education programs designed for flexibility and convenience.

Pros:

  • Study from anywhere, especially helpful in rural areas
  • Keep working while earning your degree
  • Often faster and more affordable than traditional programs

Cons:

  • Requires strong time management and self-direction
  • Limited face-to-face networking opportunities
  • Some practica may still be in-person

What Are the Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in Minnesota?

Admissions standards vary by school, but most M.Ed. programs in Minnesota require:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • GPA of 2.75 or higher
  • Letters of recommendation (2–3)
  • Personal statement or essay
  • MTLE scores (if applying to licensure-track programs)
  • Professional experience or teaching background (preferred)

Popular Master’s in Education Degree Specialties in Minnesota

Educators in Minnesota can choose from a wide variety of M.Ed. focus areas to meet licensure needs or career goals:

Top Employers and School Districts for M.Ed. Graduates in Minnesota

School districts, government agencies, and postsecondary institutions often hire graduates of M.Ed. programs in Minnesota. Some top employers include:

  • Minneapolis Public Schools
  • Saint Paul Public Schools
  • Anoka-Hennepin School District
  • Minnesota Department of Education
  • Rochester Public Schools
  • University of Minnesota

Explore teacher salary trends

Take the Next Step

Whether you’re aiming to lead a classroom, specialize in literacy, or earn initial licensure, Minnesota’s M.Ed. programs offer flexible, affordable, and highly regarded pathways. Explore options that align with your career goals and take the next step toward transforming education in the North Star State.

Sources

  1. Minnesota Department of Education – Educator Workforce Report
  2. University of Minnesota – College of Education and Human Development
  3. St. Mary’s University of Minnesota – School of Education
  4. Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB)

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