Indigenous Teacher Education Specialization

Teach elementary education with Lakota or Dakota language proficiency while earning a master's degree in Elementary Education.

The Indigenous Teacher Education (ITE) specialization prepares teachers to instruct in Indigenous methods, curricula, and content.

Be in Demand

There are not enough licensed elementary educators with Indigenous language proficiency teaching in tribal and public school classrooms that have high numbers of Native American students. The demand will continue to grow as over 40% of current Lakota/Dakota language proficient teachers are nearing retirement.

Elementary Education Degree

The Indigenous Teacher Education specialization can be completed through the Elementary Education accelerated program, in which full time students can attain a bachelor of Science and a master of Education in as few as three years.

How to Apply

To apply to the accelerated Elementary Education program with a specialization in Indigenous Teacher Education, you must:

1. Apply to UND

If you are a current undergraduate student, move to step 2. If you are a transfer student, apply to UND as a transfer student.

2. Complete Teacher Education Application Process

You must be officially admitted to the undergraduate Elementary Education program before completing the Teacher Education Application Process. This process includes:

• Submitting two letters of recommendation
• Passing the Praxis Exam in your first program semester with a minimum score of: Reading (156), Writing (160), Math (150)

Step 3. Apply to UND Graduate School

Apply to UND Graduate School. Your application must be completed at least one semester before dual enrollment courses are taken.    

Questions?