Para-to-Teacher Program

Elevate your career from paraprofessional educator to full teaching licensure.

The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) is funding a pathway to a bachelor's degree and teacher licensure for paraprofessional educators who are currently working in North Dakota schools. These professionals are ideal candidates for teacher licensure support because they are familiar with PK-12 public education, have established professional relationships, and have proven they can help students succeed.

By removing a large part of the financial barrier that has prevented some educational professionals from completing their college degree, those individuals are now provided the support needed to attain licensure and become a full-fledged teacher.

Program Overview

Participant Eligibility

The Para-to-Teacher program provides tuition assistance to qualified applicants pursuing a bachelor’s degree in select teaching programs. Additional resources may be available to assist with other program costs; contact program representatives for more information.

To be eligible, individuals must 1) be admitted to UND in an eligible program and 2) have a plan of study developed prior to completing the application.

Funding

Students in the Para-to-Teacher program are eligible to be awarded $370 per credit for the 2025-26 academic year and $380 per credit for the 2026-27 academic year*. Funding for this program is only available from Fall 2025 through Spring 2027 or until funds are depleted, whichever comes first.

*Individual awards are capped at $20,000 for the lifetime of the program

Eligible Programs

Students can choose from four eligible teacher education program options. All programs are available 100% online, allowing students to work and meet other life obligations without interruption.

Why Choose UND?

UND’s Teacher Education program is one of the strongest in the state. Students complete their degree with solid foundational experience and fully prepared to lead a classroom. Guidance from knowledgeable advisors and mentorship from experienced faculty is provided throughout the program.

In addition, online students are full-fledged students and are entitled to enjoy the full UND experience (e.g., option to participate in campus events, access to game tickets, student discounts with a campus ID, etc.)

Apply

The application window for the Para-to-Teacher program opens June 2, 2025. The application will be linked here at that time.

Funding is made possible by the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI).

Guidance for Application Completion

The following information is provided to assist students in successfully completing the PTP application.

1. EPP field: enter UND.  
2. Number of credits: applicants must work with a UND advisor to determine how many credits they anticipate taking for the semester.
3. Amount Requested: Calculate the semester amount by multiplying the number of credits taken by the funding rate for that semester.
   • Example 1: the funding rate for the 2025-26 academic year is $370 per credit. Students taking 13 credits in a semester that academic year would request $4,810, or 13 x $370.
   • Example 2: the funding rate for the 2026-27 academic year is $380 per credit. Students taking 15 credits in a semester that academic year would request $5,700, or 15 x $380.
4. Letter of recommendation: Students are required to obtain a letter of recommendation from their administrator to submit with their application. On the form, there is a designated spot for the “Signature of Administrator.”

The completed application and letter of recommendation should be emailed to dpiasstsupt@nd.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Questions about the Para-to-Teacher (PTP) program? Review the FAQ below. If your question is not answered or addressed, please contact us for assistance.

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