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University of Minnesota Twin Cities

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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.

  • College or University
  • Minneapolis

Institution Links

  • Financial Aid Office

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.
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Programs

Master’s & certification

Multiple Pathways to Teaching: MNGOT (Elementary)

  • 24 months

    Program Duration

  • Hybrid

    Program Format

  • Pre-Test Required

    Yes

Relevant Links

Graduate AdmissionsGraduate ApplicationTeacher Education ProgramProgram

Program Info

Want to become a licensed elementary teacher while continuing to work in your school community? The Minnesota Grow Your Own Teachers (MNGOT) K–6 Elementary Program is designed for you. This innovative alternative licensure program is for future teachers who already have a bachelor’s degree and hands-on experience in schools—and are ready to take the next step toward becoming licensed. Through partnerships with local districts and organizations, MNGOT helps you earn your initial Minnesota teaching license while also working toward a master’s degree.

Already working in a school-based role? You’re in good company. MNGOT participants include: 

  • District staff
  • Paraprofessionals
  • Educational assistants
  • Substitute or reserve teachers
  • Tier 2 teachers
  • Those currently serving with (or interested in joining) Reading Corps

The program is built to fit your work schedule. With evening and weekend classes, you can continue working during the week and immediately apply what you’re learning. Coursework includes a blend of online learning and in-person sessions held once a month.

Upcoming Deadlines

  • Deadlines

    Program Start

  • Dec. 15, 2025

    Summer

  • Apr. 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!

Amount
Description

Varies

Grants, Stipends, Scholarships

Each year, students receive over $1 million in scholarships and grants. Most receive funding that covers at least 50 percent of program costs. Visit the Aid for Future Teachers page to explore scholarships from U of M foundations, donors, and state and federal sources.

Varies

Work Study, Working While Still Enrolled

The program offers flexible pathways that let you keep working while earning your license. It’s designed for non-licensed district staff with bachelor’s degrees, including paraprofessionals, educational assistants, substitute or reserve teachers, and Tier 1 or 2 teachers who are working toward a master’s and a Tier 3 or Tier 4 teaching license.

For more information visit:Financial Aid Office

Certifications

Elementary Education (Grades K-6)
For more information, visit: Admissions

Get Started

Dig deeper. Visit University of Minnesota Twin Cities's website to learn more and apply.

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