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Best Master’s in Education Degree Programs in South Dakota
South Dakota’s sweeping prairies, close‑knit communities, and strong tradition of local control make education a uniquely personal endeavor across the state. Yet its roughly 135,000 public‑school students face teacher shortages, particularly in special education, secondary math and science, and remote reservation schools. The South Dakota Department of Education (SDDOE) reported more than 900 open educator positions for the 2024–25 academic year, with many districts relying on long‑term substitutes or distance learning to fill gaps.
For classroom teachers, career changers, and aspiring administrators, earning a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) in South Dakota can unlock the Professional Teaching Certificate, boost salaries under the state salary schedule, and open doors to instructional coach or principal roles. Institutions from the Black Hills to the Missouri River now deliver graduate coursework in online, hybrid, weekend, and evening formats—so educators in Rapid City, Sioux Falls, or Mobridge can level up without relocating.
Below, you’ll discover South Dakota’s leading M.Ed. programs, essential guidance on accelerated degree pathways, cost‑savvy tuition, licensure routes, online study, and the school systems most eager to hire master‑prepared educators.
Table of Contents
Every program listed holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, and most teacher‑prep units maintain CAEP approval, ensuring research‑based coursework, a supervised practicum, and alignment with South Dakota licensure requirements.
2026 Best Master's in Education Degree Programs in South Dakota
Discover the best Master's in Education degree programs in South Dakota, as ranked by mastersineducation.org. We've carefully evaluated schools across the state to help you find top options for advancing your teaching career or educational leadership. Our rankings consider factors like program quality, affordability, and student outcomes, ensuring you get reliable information to make an informed decision. Learn more about how we create these rankings at https://mastersineducation.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD - Public 4-Year - usd.edu
Master's - M.A. in Elementary Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Dakota's online M.A. in Elementary Education enhances teaching skills for preschool to elementary educators through flexible, CAEP-accredited coursework. Specializations like literacy coaching or STEM education are available, with affordable tuition including a 50% discount for South Dakota teachers. This program, designed for working professionals, does not require an entrance exam and emphasizes small faculty-student ratios and national rankings.
- Fully online master's program
- Multiple specialization paths
- CAEP accredited since 1956
- 50% tuition discount for SD teachers
- Supportive small faculty-student ratios
- Designed for working educators
Master's - Secondary Education (M.A.)
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online M.A. in Secondary Education from the University of South Dakota prepares educators for leadership roles in middle and high schools with individualized study plans and CAEP accreditation. Focused on reflective leadership and pedagogical innovation, it offers multiple specializations and tuition assistance. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Online Master's Degree Program
- Individualized Study Plans
- Prepares Reflective Educational Leaders
- Multiple Specialization Options
- CAEP Accredited Since 1956
- Small Faculty-Student Ratios
- WRGP Tuition Assistance Available
- Assistantships and Research Opportunities
- Teaching and Administrative Focus
Master's - Secondary Education Plus Certification (M.A)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Dakota's online M.A. in Secondary Education Plus Certification provides a pathway to a South Dakota teaching certificate, incorporating teacher residency and evidence-based strategies. Affordable with potential 50% discounts for state teachers, it emphasizes reflective leadership and does not require an entrance exam for admission.
- Online master's degree program
- South Dakota teaching certification
- One semester teacher residency
- Affordable tuition options
- Reflective leadership focus
- Individualized study plan
- Expert faculty mentorship
- CAEP accredited since 1956
Master's - Secondary Education: STEM Education (M.A) (STEM Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Concentrating on STEM Education, this online M.A. program at the University of South Dakota equips secondary educators with innovative pedagogical strategies for science, technology, engineering, and math. It features flexible curriculum and expert mentorship, with no entrance exam required for this master's level degree.
- Online Master's STEM Education
- Prepares secondary STEM teachers
- Evidence-based instructional practices
- Flexible personalized curriculum
- Expert faculty mentorship
Master's - Secondary Education: Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach (M.A.) (Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on the Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach concentration, this online M.A. program at the University of South Dakota trains educators in research-proven literacy practices to earn an additional certification. It supports instructional leadership without requiring an entrance exam, targeting improved student literacy outcomes.
- Online master's degree program
- Earn reading specialist certification
- Research-proven literacy practices
- Supports teachers and students
- Focuses on literacy instructional leadership
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#2
Northern State University
Aberdeen, SD - Public 4-Year - northern.edu
Master's - Leadership and Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern State University's online Master of Science in Education in Leadership and Administration prepares educators to become transformative school leaders, focusing on educational leadership, organizational behavior, and instructional management. This 33-credit-hour program, compliant with NELP Standards, can be completed in two years and does not require an entrance exam. It emphasizes practical application for P-12 settings, led by experienced faculty trained in online delivery.
- Online P-12 principal preparation
- 33 total credit hours
- Two-year completion timeline
- NELP Standards compliant
- Experienced faculty trained online
Master's - M.S. Ed. in Special Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern State University's Master of Science in Education in Special Education, offered online and on-campus, enhances skills for supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs. This 30-credit-hour program, designed for certified teachers, allows for special education endorsements and includes a visual impairment specialization. Completion takes about two years, with no entrance exam required, addressing teacher shortages through partnerships like the SD School for the Blind.
- 30 Credit Hours
- Online and On-campus
- Two-year completion
- For certified teachers
- Special Education endorsement
- Visual Impairment specialization
- Accelerated program option
- Partnership with SD School for the Blind
- Enhances educator preparation
- Addresses teacher shortage
Master's - M.S. Ed. in Special Education with a Visual Impairment Specialization (Visual Impairment)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern State University's Master of Science in Education in Special Education with a Visual Impairment Specialization focuses on training teachers for students with visual impairments, addressing critical shortages. Available online and on-campus, this 30-credit-hour program for certified teachers includes partnerships with the SD School for the Blind and offers accelerated options. No entrance exam is required, and it prepares educators to add endorsements while supporting diverse learning needs.
- 30 Credit Hours
- Online and Campus Options
- Visual Impairment Specialization
- Partnership with SD School for the Blind
- Designed for Certified Teachers
- Enhances Educator Preparation
- Supports Diverse Learning Needs
- Accelerated Program Available
- Focus on Behavioral Needs
- Adds Endorsements to Certification
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3
University of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, SD - Private 4-year - usiouxfalls.edu
Master's - M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Sioux Falls offers a hybrid M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, a 33-credit program leading to K-12 principal licensure. It emphasizes curriculum design, legal foundations, and school management, with flexible online and on-campus options. Prerequisites include a teaching certificate, 3.0 GPA, and one year of teaching experience. No entrance exam is required. Tuition is $415 per credit, and the program is CAEP accredited, enhancing career opportunities in educational administration.
- K-12 Principal Licensure
- Hybrid Learning Format
- 33 Total Credit Hours
- $415 Per Credit Hour
- CAEP Accredited Program
- One Year Teaching Experience Required
- Synchronous Zoom Options
- Christian University Setting
- Diverse Leadership Career Paths
Master's - Master of Education in Educational Administration (Adult and Higher Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Master of Education in Educational Administration with a concentration in Adult and Higher Education prepares professionals for leadership in higher education and student services. The 33-credit program focuses on adult learning theory and organizational dynamics, with an internship component. Prerequisites include a 3.0 GPA; no entrance exam is required. Tuition is under $400 per credit, and it is CAEP accredited, offering flexible learning for career advancement.
- Online flexible degree program
- 33 total credit hours
- Tuition under $400/credit
- CAEP Accredited program
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Career paths in education administration
- Christian university environment
- Internship in Adult Higher Education
- Focuses on organizational leadership
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4
Dakota State University
Madison, SD - Public 4-Year - dsu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Education and Technology (Educational Technology)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Dakota State University's Master of Science in Education and Technology with a concentration in Educational Technology is a 30-credit online program designed to enhance educators' skills in integrating digital tools and pedagogical strategies. Focused on technology integration, it offers specializations in educational technology or computer science, with no teaching certification required. The asynchronous format provides flexibility for working professionals, covering emerging technologies like AI and learning analytics. Entrance exams are not required for this master's level program.
- 100% online program
- 30 total credit hours
- 3 start terms annually
- Estimated $3,365 per semester
- No teaching certification required
- Two specialization options
- Technology integration focus
- Cyber security curriculum
- Leadership skill development
- Flexible asynchronous courses
Master's - Master of Science in Education and Technology (Computer Science and Cyber Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Dakota State University's Master of Science in Education and Technology with a concentration in Computer Science and Cyber Education prepares educators to lead technological innovation in learning environments. This 30-credit online program emphasizes cyber education and digital tool integration, offering affordable tuition and flexible asynchronous courses. No teaching certification is needed, and it includes multiple start terms annually. Entrance exams are not required for this master's level program.
- 100% online program
- 30 total credit hours
- Multiple start terms yearly
- Two concentration options
- $3,365.10 per semester
- No teaching certification required
- Technology integration focus
- Asynchronous course format
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5
Augustana University
Sioux Falls, SD - Private 4-year - augie.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Special Education (K-12 Special Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Augustana University's online Master of Education in Special Education with a K-12 concentration prepares licensed or alternative certification educators in 13-16 months. This program focuses on evidence-based interventions, legal standards, and inclusive teaching strategies for students with disabilities. It requires a 3.0 GPA for admission and does not mandate an entrance exam, offering flexible online learning with a cohort model. Graduates can earn South Dakota DOE endorsement, with transferable electives and competitive tuition enhancing professional development opportunities.
- Online 13-16 month program
- K-12 Special Education concentration
- 30 total credit hours required
- Cohort model up to 18 students
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Leads to SD DOE endorsement
- Nine credits transferable electives
- Alternative certification available
#6
Mount Marty University
Yankton, SD - Private 4-year - mountmarty.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mount Marty University offers a hybrid Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, designed for experienced educators to deepen their teaching expertise. This program emphasizes research-based methods, educational technology, and critical thinking, with flexible track options including portfolio and thesis paths. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, a minimum 2.75 GPA, teaching experience, and three recommendation letters. As a master's level program, it does not require an entrance exam. Focused on enhancing classroom outcomes, it includes mentored practica and covers topics like educational psychology and assessment.
- Hybrid graduate program
- Three track options
- Minimum 30-33 credits
- One year teaching required
- Mentored classroom practica
- Research-focused curriculum
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Courses include research, technology
- Designed for practicing teachers
#7
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD - Public 4-Year - sdstate.edu
Master's - Curriculum and Instruction (M.Ed.)
Online Learning - Visit Website
South Dakota State University's online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction offers a flexible 30-credit program with thesis and non-thesis options, focusing on advanced instructional strategies, educational leadership, and research methodologies. It covers key areas like educational psychology, support for exceptional learners, and pluralistic approaches. No GRE is required, making it accessible for educators seeking professional growth. The program features eight-week course sessions and is designed for both domestic and international students, emphasizing practical application in diverse educational settings.
- Fully online program
- 30 credit hours total
- No GRE required
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Eight-week course sessions
- International student-friendly
- Flexible curriculum design
#8
Black Hills State University
Spearfish, SD - Public 4-Year - bhsu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Secondary Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
Black Hills State University's Master of Science in Secondary Education is a 35-credit online program designed for bachelor's degree holders seeking secondary teacher certification. Through the innovative Project SECOND pathway, it enables completion in one year, combining advanced pedagogical training, subject-specific expertise, and practical experiences to prepare highly qualified educators. This program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on dynamic teaching careers in secondary education settings.
- 35-credit online program
- Secondary teacher certification
- Complete in one year
- Project SECOND pathway
- For non-education bachelor's degrees
#9
Sinte Gleska University
Mission, SD - Public 4-Year - sintegleska.edu
Master's - Master of Education (Elementary Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Sinte Gleska University's online Master of Education in Elementary Education equips educators with advanced skills in culturally responsive teaching, curriculum development, and innovative instructional methods. This program, designed for working professionals, offers flexibility to enhance teaching outcomes without requiring an entrance exam, focusing on improving student learning in diverse elementary settings.
- Online Master's in Elementary Education
- Culturally responsive teaching focus
- Designed for working educators
- Advanced curriculum development skills
- Flexible program structure
*Source: IPEDS 2024 survey results, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.
Learn more about our methodology
Fastest M.Ed. Programs in South Dakota
Educators working on alternative permits—or veterans aiming for a fast salary boost—often need graduate credentials quickly. South Dakota universities have developed accelerated, cohort‑based pathways that compress 30–36 credits into four‑semester or one‑year calendars. These formats rely on eight‑week online modules, year‑round enrollment, and embedded capstone projects so you can stay in your classroom while earning your master’s.
| School | Specialty | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Hills State University | K–12 Technology Integration | 12 months | Online |
| Northern State University | Teaching & Learning | 12–16 months | Online |
| South Dakota State University | Educational Administration | 12–18 months | Hybrid |
| University of South Dakota | Curriculum & Instruction | 16 months | Hybrid |
| Dakota State University | Educational Technology | 16–18 months | Online |
| Augustana University | Special Education | 18 months | Hybrid |
See more rapid‑completion options. Explore our national roundup of quick M.Ed. programs for additional one‑year and 18‑month pathways.
Cheapest M.Ed. Programs in South Dakota
South Dakota’s public university system keeps tuition among the lowest in the nation, often under $380 per online credit. Coupled with district stipends and the South Dakota Critical Teaching Needs Scholarship for graduate study, these budget‑friendly master’s degrees delivera high return on investment without hefty debt.
| School | Specialty | Tuition Range | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern State University | Leadership & Administration | $9,500–$11,500 | Online |
| Black Hills State University | Reading | $10,000–$12,000 | Online |
| Dakota State University | Educational Technology | $10,500–$12,500 | Online |
| South Dakota State University | Early Childhood | $11,000–$13,000 | Hybrid |
| University of South Dakota | Special Education | $11,500–$13,500 | Hybrid |
| Presentation College | Curriculum & Instruction | $10,500–$12,500 | Online |
Looking for additional low‑cost picks? Visit our guide to affordable master’s programs for wallet‑friendly choices nationwide.
What Master’s in Education Degrees Lead to South Dakota Teacher Licensure?
South Dakota’s Alternative Certification Program allows bachelor’s holders to teach while completing an M.Ed. for full certification.
- Enroll in a South Dakota Education Professional Standards Board–approved M.Ed. licensure program.
- Pass the Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Assessments for your endorsement.
- Complete supervised student teaching or a district mentoring program.
- Undergo a South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation background check.
- Apply via the Online Application System (TeachSOdak) for the Professional Teaching Certificate.
Are Online Master’s in Education Programs Available in South Dakota?
Yes—online M.Ed. programs are essential in a state where some districts are hours from the nearest campus.
Pros
- Asynchronous coursework fits ranching, coaching, and family schedules.
- In‑state tuition generally extends to online learners.
- Field experiences arranged in your local school district.
Cons
- Broadband access may be limited in remote counties.
- Limited in‑person networking opportunities.
- Some programs require brief on‑campus orientations.
Explore online master’s in education programs
What Are the Admissions Requirements for M.Ed. Programs in South Dakota?
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA 2.75–3.0
- 2–3 professional references
- Statement of purpose or goals essay
- Résumé (teaching experience preferred)
- Praxis Core scores (for licensure seekers)
Popular Master’s in Education Degree Specialties in South 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 South Dakota
- Sioux Falls School District
- Rapid City Area Schools
- Aberdeen Public Schools
- South Dakota Department of Education
- University of South Dakota & SDSU
- Oceti Sakowin Community Academy and other tribal schools
Take the Next Step
Whether you’re shifting from an alternative permit to full licensure, pursuing a literacy endorsement, or seeking a district‑level leadership role, an M.Ed. from a South Dakota university can elevate your career and your impact on students across the state. Compare program lengths, tuition, and delivery modes—then choose the pathway that aligns with your professional goals. Your next chapter in South Dakota education starts today.
Sources
- South Dakota Department of Education – Educator Supply & Demand Report
- South Dakota Education Professional Standards Board – Licensure Pathways
- ETS Praxis – South Dakota Testing Requirements
- Higher Learning Commission – Accredited Institutions Directory
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