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Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota’s wide‑open plains, tight‑knit rural communities, and booming energy sector shape a one‑of‑a‑kind educational landscape. Public schools serve roughly 115,000 K–12 students. Still, the state struggles to fill teaching positions, especially in special education, math, science, and remote districts where recruitment and retention are an enduring challenge. The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) listed more than 500 unfilled educator roles heading into the the school year, marking advanced‑degree teachers as crucial to student success.
For classroom veterans and newcomers alike, earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) in North Dakota can pave the way to professional licensure, leadership credentials, and salary upgrades. Institutions across the Peace Garden State deliver their graduate programs in online, hybrid, and weekend formats—letting you stay in your district while advancing your skills.
This guide highlights North Dakota’s best M.Ed. programs. You’ll also find quick master’s options, affordable degree pathways, licensure guidance, and major employers eager for master’s level educators.
Table of Contents
All programs below are housed at institutions holding Higher Learning Commission regional accreditation, and most boast CAEP‑approved educator‑prep units. That means you’ll tackle research‑based coursework, accrue supervised practicum hours, and graduate ready for North Dakota licensure.
2026 Best Master's in Education Degree Programs in North Dakota
Looking for the best master's in education degree programs in North Dakota? Mastersineducation.org has you covered with our carefully chosen rankings. We evaluate schools based on factors like affordability, quality, and student support to help you make a smart choice for your career. Our goal is to provide clear and reliable information to guide your next steps in education. For details on how we create these rankings, visit our methodology page at https://mastersineducation.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND - Public 4-Year - und.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota's online Master of Education in Special Education offers a flexible, 100% online program with 10 specialization options, including Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It requires no entry exams, has affordable tuition, and can be completed in 1.5+ years with 30+ credit hours. Designed for educators, it prepares graduates for careers in schools, hospitals, and human services with skills in assessment and evidence-based teaching.
- 100% Online Master's Degree
- No Campus Visit Required
- 10 Specialization Options
- Affordable Tuition Rates
- 1.5+ Years to Complete
- 30+ Credit Hours
- No Entry Exam Required
- Approved Teacher Certification
- Flexible Asynchronous Classes
- One-on-One Academic Advising
Master's - Master's in Elementary Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Master's in Elementary Education from the University of North Dakota is tailored for licensed teachers, focusing on advanced pedagogical skills, curriculum design, and instructional strategies for diverse classrooms. It spans 30 credit hours over approximately two years, with no campus visits required. The program includes a practicum, is CAEP accredited, and emphasizes STEM and reading education, enhancing career prospects without requiring entrance exams.
- 100% online coursework
- 30 credit hour program
- 2+ years to complete
- No campus visit required
- Nationally accredited program
- Flexible asynchronous classes
- Nine elective credits available
- Practicum included
- CAEP accredited
- Affordable online tuition
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA))
Online Learning - Visit Website
Specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), this online Master's in Special Education at the University of North Dakota prepares students for BCBA certification through a Behavior Analyst Certification Board-approved curriculum. It requires 30+ credit hours, can be finished in about 1.5 years, and has no entry exams. The flexible, asynchronous format supports working professionals aiming for roles in behavioral analysis across various settings.
- 100% Online Degree
- 1.5+ Years to Complete
- 30+ Credit Hours
- No Entry Exams Required
- BCBA Exam Preparation
- Asynchronous Course Format
- Affordable Tuition Rates
- Multiple Career Pathways
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (Intellectual Disabilities (ID))
Online Learning - Visit Website
Focused on Intellectual Disabilities (ID), the University of North Dakota's online Master's in Special Education provides specialized training for supporting individuals with developmental cognitive disabilities. The program covers assessments and interventions, requires 30+ credit hours over 1.5 years, and has no entry exams. With affordable tuition and flexible coursework, it prepares educators for certification and careers in special education through practical, field-based learning.
- 100% Online Master's Degree
- 30+ Credit Hours Required
- 1.5 Years Average Completion
- No Entry Exam Required
- Specialized Intellectual Disabilities Focus
- Flexible Asynchronous Coursework
- Affordable Tuition Rates
- Approved Teacher Certification
- One-on-One Academic Advising
- On-the-Job Fieldwork Option
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND - Private 4-year - umary.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Mary's online Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment prepares K-12 educators for leadership with evidence-based strategies rooted in Christian and Benedictine values. This accelerated program, designed for working professionals, can be completed in 1.5 years at $595 per credit, requiring a minimum 2.75 GPA and no entrance exam. It emphasizes practical skills and career advancement through flexible online learning.
- Online and blended formats
- 1.5 years program length
- $595 per credit tuition
- K-12 educator focus
- Christian/Benedictine values
- 2.75 minimum GPA required
- Leadership skill development
- Flexible learning options
Master's - Master of Education, Special Education Strategist
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Mary's online Master of Education in Special Education Strategist equips educators with advanced skills for specialized roles, focusing on collaboration and practical experience. Completed in 1.5 years at $595 per credit, this ESPB-accredited program requires a 2.75 GPA and no entrance exam, opening career paths in teaching, advocacy, and administration for students with special needs.
- Online and blended format
- 1.5 years program length
- $595 per credit tuition
- ESPB accredited program
- Multiple career paths available
- Minimum 2.75 GPA requirement
- Expert practitioner faculty
- Practical collaboration focus
Master's - Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment (Licensure Track)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Mary's online Master of Education in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment with Licensure Track offers an accelerated pathway for aspiring secondary educators in North Dakota. Focused on specific content areas, this 1.5-year program costs $595 per credit, requires a minimum GPA but no entrance exam, and provides licensure preparation with advanced teaching strategies and ethical development.
- Online and blended format
- 1.5 year program length
- $595 per credit tuition
- North Dakota state licensure
- Specific content area focus
- Secondary education preparation
- ESPB and CAEP accredited
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Mary's online Master of Education in Special Education Leadership prepares educators for administrative roles, offering credentials for K-12 leadership in North Dakota. This 1.5-year program at $595 per credit emphasizes problem-solving and collaboration, requires a 2.75 GPA and no entrance exam, and is designed for working professionals to serve students with special needs effectively.
- Online and blended format
- 1.5 years program length
- $595 per credit tuition
- Credentials for K-12 leadership
- Designed for working professionals
- ESPB and CAEP accredited
- Minimum 2.75 GPA requirement
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3
Dickinson State University
Dickinson, ND - Public 4-Year - dickinsonstate.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Dickinson State University's online Master of Education in Educational Leadership prepares educators for K-12 administrative roles, aligning with NELP standards. It requires a 3.0 GPA and a bachelor's degree, focusing on leadership skills and offering K-8 licensure. No entrance exam is specified for this master's program.
- Online Master's program
- K-8 licensure preparation
- NELP Standards aligned
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Professional goals statement needed
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Arts in Teaching at Dickinson State University is a fast-track program for career changers seeking secondary teacher licensure, with no prior credentials needed. It requires a 3.0 GPA and a baccalaureate degree, emphasizing efficient transition into education. No entrance exam is mentioned.
- Online graduate teaching pathway
- Designed for career changers
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- No prior teaching credentials needed
- Secondary school teacher licensure
Master's - Master of Education in Elementary Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Master of Education in Elementary Education at Dickinson State University enhances pedagogical skills for elementary teachers, focusing on literacy, math techniques, and technology integration. It requires a 3.0 GPA and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. No entrance exam is required.
- Online graduate program
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Cross-curricular literacy focus
- Technology integration emphasis
- Higher Learning Commission accredited
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4
Valley City State University
Valley City, ND - Public 4-Year - vcsu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching
Online Learning - Visit Website
Valley City State University's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a 100% online program designed for career changers and educators seeking licensure. It offers flexible coursework in modern teaching methods, educational technology, and classroom strategies, enabling graduates to advance in North Dakota's education sector. This program does not require an entrance exam, as it is focused on practical skills and professional development.
- 100% Online Program
- Direct Teaching Licensure Route
- Flexible Professional Coursework
- Career Change Opportunity
Master's - Master of Education (Elementary Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Valley City State University's Master of Education in Elementary Education is a 36-credit online program for K-6 educators, concentrating on advanced teaching strategies, technology integration, and research. It includes action research and instructional leadership training, preparing graduates for diverse classroom challenges. This program does not require an entrance exam, emphasizing skill enhancement and professional growth.
- 36-credit online graduate program
- K-6 educator focused curriculum
- Action research component
- Technology integration emphasis
- Comprehensive instructional leadership training
- Flexible elective coursework
- Research and assessment skills
- Diversity and inclusion focus
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5
Mayville State University
Mayville, ND - Public 4-Year - mayvillestate.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching
Online Learning - Visit Website
Mayville State University's Master of Arts in Teaching is a 32-credit online program designed for non-teaching degree holders seeking secondary certification in subjects like Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, English, Physical Education, and Health. This flexible program prepares career changers and working professionals for teaching roles with rigorous coursework aligned to North Dakota certification standards, offering personalized support and no entrance exam requirement.
- 32-credit online graduate program
- Supports secondary teacher certification
- Flexible for working professionals
- Multiple teaching subject areas
- Standards-based curriculum
Master's - Master of Education (Special Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Mayville State University's Master of Education in Special Education is a 34-credit online program for licensed teachers focusing on advanced skills for diverse learning needs. It covers inclusive environments, behavioral strategies, assessment, and legal aspects, leading to special education licensure and roles like coordinator. Based on CEC standards, it includes practicum and capstone projects, with no entrance exam required.
- 34 semester credit hours
- Online program format
- Aligned with CEC Standards
- Designed for licensed teachers
- Leadership development focus
- Multi-categorical special needs preparation
- Includes practicum experiences
- Capstone project requirement
- Special education licensure pathway
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6
North Dakota State University
Fargo, ND - Public 4-Year - ndsu.edu
Master's - Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Visit Website
North Dakota State University offers a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction online, designed for educators seeking to enhance teaching methods and curriculum design. This 30-credit program provides flexible pathways with M.Ed. and M.S. options, focusing on pedagogical strategies, learning theories, and assessment. It includes core courses in educational research and a practicum or thesis, preparing graduates for leadership roles in K-12, higher education, or consulting. No entrance exam is required, and a minimum 3.0 GPA is preferred for admission.
- Online flexible delivery
- 30 total credit hours
- Two degree pathways: M.Ed./M.S.
- Customizable Plan of Study
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Core courses in educational research
- Practicum or thesis option
- Professional experience preferred
#7
University of Jamestown
Jamestown, ND - Private 4-year - uj.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Jamestown offers an online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, designed for educators aiming to advance their careers and leadership skills. This fully online program spans five semesters with a one-course-at-a-time schedule, allowing flexibility for working professionals. At $350 per credit for 30 credits, it is an affordable option that does not require an entrance exam. Key features include a cohort-based model, competency-based grading, and alignment with professional teaching standards. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and a current teaching license, making it ideal for licensed teachers seeking salary advancement.
- Fully online flexible learning
- 30 total graduate credits
- $350 per credit tuition
- No entrance exam required
- Non-thesis program
- Cohort-based collaborative model
- Aligned to professional teaching standards
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Current teaching license required
- Competency-based grading
*Data from: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2024.
Learn more about our methodology
Fastest M.Ed. Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota’s universities recognize that many educators can’t pause their careers for a traditional two‑year master’s. Enter accelerated and quick‑format programs that compress 30–36 credits into four‑semester or even one‑year calendars. These pathways leverage eight‑week online courses, summer residencies, and integrated practicums so you can maintain classroom duties while earning graduate credentials at record speed.
| School | Specialty | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mary | Educational Administration | 12 months | Online/Evening |
| Minot State University | Instructional Design | 12–16 months | Online |
| Valley City State University | Technology Education | 12–18 months | Online |
| UND | Special Education | 16 months | Hybrid |
| NDSU | Teacher Leadership | 16–18 months | Online |
| Dickinson State University | Elementary Education | 18 months | Hybrid |
Explore even more accelerated master’s pathways. Visit our national roundup of quick M.Ed. programs for additional 1‑year and 18‑month options.
Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in North Dakota
Graduate tuition in North Dakota is among the lowest in the nation, thanks to state‑supported universities that cap online per‑credit rates and waive many campus fees. The programs below demonstrate how you can earn a respected master’s for $9k–$13k total, complete with CAEP accreditation, experienced faculty, and field placements near your home district.
| School | Specialty | Tuition Range | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valley City State University | Elementary Education | $9,000–$11,000 | Online |
| Minot State University | Special Education | $9,500–$11,500 | Online |
| UND | Curriculum & Instruction | $10,500–$12,500 | Hybrid |
| NDSU | Educational Technology | $11,000–$13,000 | Online |
| University of Mary | School Counseling | $11,500–$13,500 | Online/Evening |
| Dickinson State University | Secondary Education | $10,000–$12,000 | Online |
Want more wallet‑friendly choices? Check our comprehensive guide to affordable master’s programs for low‑cost M.Ed. options nationwide.
What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to North Dakota Teacher Licensure?
North Dakota offers Alternate Access Licensure routes for bachelor’s holders who lack a teaching degree.
- Enroll in an Education Standards & Practices Board (ESPB)–approved M.Ed. licensure program.
- Pass Praxis Core and relevant Praxis Subject Assessments.
- Complete a supervised student‑teaching or internship experience.
- Submit fingerprints and background‑check clearance.
- Apply via the ESPB online system for an Initial In‑State Educator License.
Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in North Dakota?
Yes—online M.Ed. programs are vital in a state where some districts sit hours from a university campus.
Pros
- Asynchronous modules fit farming schedules and coaching duties.
- In‑state tuition discounts extend to online learners.
- Fieldwork arranged in local schools.
Cons
- Requires broadband access in rural areas.
- Less face‑to‑face networking.
- Practicum hours still completed onsite.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in North Dakota?
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum GPA 2.75–3.0
- 2–3 letters of recommendation
- Personal statement detailing career goals
- Résumé (classroom experience preferred)
- Praxis Core scores (licensure seekers)
Popular Master’s in Education Degree Specialties in North Dakota
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Special Education
- Reading and Literacy
- Educational Technology
- Early Childhood Education
- Educational Leadership
Top Employers and School Districts for M.Ed. Graduates in North Dakota
- Bismarck Public Schools
- Fargo Public Schools
- Grand Forks Public Schools
- North Dakota Department of Public Instruction
- University of North Dakota & NDSU
- Northern Cass School District (innovative personalized‑learning pilot)
Take the Next Step
Whether you aim to secure an Alternate Access License, move up the salary schedule, or spearhead instructional innovation, an M.Ed. from a North Dakota university can help you lead classrooms and communities forward. Compare program lengths, tuition, and delivery formats—then choose the path that aligns with your goals. Your next chapter in North Dakota education begins today.
Sources
- North Dakota Department of Public Instruction – Teacher Vacancy Data
- University of North Dakota – College of Education & Human Development
- North Dakota State University – School of Education
- Minot State University – Graduate Education
- Valley City State University – Online M.Ed. Programs
- University of Mary – Education Division
- Dickinson State University – M.Ed. Overview
- Education Standards & Practices Board – Licensure Requirements
- Praxis – North Dakota Testing Information
Stay informed with expert insights on Master’s in Education programs, career development, and leadership opportunities. Whether you’re evaluating schools, preparing for admissions, or exploring career paths after graduation, our carefully selected articles offer valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions and maximize your Master’s in Education investment.
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8 min read
May 13, 2025