University of Minnesota Twin Cities
About
Founded in 1851 on the Indigenous homelands of the Dakota people, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities stands out among land-grant institutions for its location within the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Known as "U of M" or simply "The U," it is the largest of five campuses systemwide and the ninth-largest public research university in the country, with over 54,800 students enrolled in 2023–24.
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers over 40 approved teacher licensure programs with a variety of pathways to support your unique educational and professional goals. Most licensure programs are offered at the graduate level, allowing you to earn a Master of Education degree alongside your teaching license. The University also offers three undergraduate licensure programs: Agricultural Education, Music Education and Special Education, where you earn your bachelor’s degree and teaching license at the same time.
As a teacher licensure student at the University, you’ll be a part of:
- A world-renowned research university, where you’ll learn from faculty and graduate students who are respected experts in education and engaged in research that directly impacts the children, schools and communities you’ll work with.
- A highly respected licensure program. Minnesota principals and superintendents know and respect the University’s reputation and they actively seek out its grads.
- A cohort of future teachers, so you can learn from your peers and build a lasting network of teacher colleagues.
Programs
Master’s & certification
Master of Education in Special Education
From 24 to 36 months
Program Duration
In-person, Online, Hybrid
Program Format
Pre-Test Required
No
Relevant Links
Program Info
Upcoming Deadlines
Deadlines
Program Start
Nov. 01, 2026
FallDec. 01, 2026
Fall
Get Deadline Reminders
Ways to Lower Your Costs
Students at University of Minnesota Twin Cities have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with University of Minnesota Twin Cities to see if you can, too!
Varies
Grants, Stipends, Scholarships
Many scholarships are available to help undergraduate and graduate students. M.Ed. and Initial Licensure students receive over $1 million in aid yearly.
To find opportunities that fit you, check out:
You might also qualify for state grants like the MN Student Teacher Grants or federal grants such as the TEACH Grant to support your teaching journey.
For more information visit:Financial Aid Office
Certifications
Special Education: Deaf or Hard of Hearing (birth-age 21)
Special Education: Early Childhood (birth through age 6)
Special Education: Emotional Behavioral Disorders (grades k-12)
Get Started
Dig deeper. Visit University of Minnesota Twin Cities's website to learn more and apply.