2026 How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in North Dakota

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Becoming an elementary school teacher in North Dakota means planning around three big decisions: which approved preparation program to choose, how to meet state licensure requirements, and how to manage cost, testing, field experience, and renewal obligations. The process is manageable, but it is easy to lose time if you enroll in a program that does not meet state expectations, miss a required exam, or underestimate student teaching and background check timelines.

This guide is written for future teachers, career changers, transfer students, and current educators who want a clear path into elementary education in North Dakota. It explains the degree and licensure requirements, traditional and alternative certification routes, online versus campus program considerations, costs, financial incentives, specializations, job options, and practical mistakes to avoid. It also reflects the urgency of the state’s teacher workforce needs: 2024 state data indicates that hundreds of elementary school teaching positions are left unfilled.

Quick Answer: How Do You Become an Elementary School Teacher in North Dakota?

To become an elementary school teacher in North Dakota, you generally need to complete a bachelor’s degree in elementary education through a state-approved teacher preparation program, finish student teaching, pass the required Praxis exams, complete a background check, and apply for licensure through the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. The licensure application process typically takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks when documents are complete and submitted correctly.

Key Things to Know Before You Start

• North Dakota’s licensure application process commonly takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks, assuming the applicant submits complete and accurate materials. Processing time can vary based on individual circumstances and application volume.
• As of the 2022-2023 academic year, North Dakota issued over 1,200 initial teaching licenses for elementary education, showing continued need for prepared elementary educators.
• The application fee for a North Dakota elementary teaching license is $90. Candidates should also plan for fingerprinting and background check expenses, which can range from $50 to $100.
• The standard route requires a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, which typically takes four years and must include student teaching.
• North Dakota teachers renew their licenses every five years. Renewal requires 60 hours of professional development through eligible activities such as workshops, coursework, or other approved learning experiences.

The most successful candidates treat licensure as a sequence, not a single application. Before enrolling, confirm program approval, understand field placement requirements, budget for testing and credentialing, and ask how the school supports graduates through the licensing process.

1. What are the educational requirements for elementary school teachers in North Dakota?
2. What is the licensure application and renewal process for elementary school teachers in North Dakota?
3. What is the difference between traditional and alternative teacher certification programs in North Dakota?
4. How long does it take to become an elementary school teacher in North Dakota?
5. Are online education programs accepted for teacher licensure in North Dakota?
6. How does an online elementary education program in North Dakota compare to an on-campus program?
7. What is the average cost of elementary education programs in North Dakota?
8. What financial incentives are available to address North Dakota’s teacher shortage? Review cost factors before comparing incentives
9. How to choose the best elementary education program in North Dakota?
10. How can I access ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance my teaching skills in North Dakota?
11. How can pursuing advanced education boost my teaching career in North Dakota?
12. Is it possible to integrate an art specialization into my elementary education career in North Dakota?
13. How do mentorship and support programs benefit new elementary teachers in North Dakota?
14. How can elementary teachers collaborate with speech-language professionals in North Dakota?
15. How can early childhood education experience enhance an elementary teaching career in North Dakota?
16. How can I transition to teaching in a private school in North Dakota?
17. What is the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in North Dakota?
18. What are the key differences in qualifications between elementary and high school teaching in North Dakota?
19. How can additional certifications boost my teaching career in North Dakota?
20. What challenges do elementary teachers face in North Dakota and how can they be overcome?
21. What types of specializations are available within elementary education in North Dakota?
22. What career paths are available for elementary school teachers in North Dakota?
23. What other teaching opportunities are available in North Dakota?
24. What is the job market for elementary school teachers in North Dakota? Salary chart context

What are the educational requirements for elementary school teachers in North Dakota?

North Dakota elementary teacher licensure begins with formal educator preparation. The state expects candidates to demonstrate both academic readiness and classroom competence before they receive a teaching license. In practical terms, that means completing an approved degree program, gaining supervised classroom experience, passing required assessments, and clearing a background review.

• Bachelor’s degree: Candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in elementary education or an approved related program. Coursework usually covers child development, instructional planning, assessment, literacy, math methods, classroom management, and strategies for teaching diverse learners.
• State-approved teacher preparation: The degree must include an approved teacher preparation sequence. This matters because not every education-related degree automatically leads to licensure. Before enrolling, confirm that the program is accepted for North Dakota elementary teacher licensure.
• Student teaching: Candidates must complete supervised teaching in a real classroom. This is where future teachers practice lesson planning, classroom routines, differentiation, assessment, communication with families, and professional collaboration.
• Required exams: Prospective teachers must pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests and the Praxis Subject Assessments required for elementary education. These exams are used to verify foundational academic skills and elementary content knowledge.
• Background check: A criminal background check is required before licensure. This step supports student safety and should be completed according to the state’s instructions to avoid application delays.

Elementary Teacher Requirements at a Glance

What is the licensure application and renewal process for elementary school teachers in North Dakota?

After completing the academic and testing requirements, candidates apply for a teaching license through the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. The state offers different license types, so applicants should read the current instructions carefully and select the license category that matches their preparation route and experience level.

For first-time elementary teachers, the key documents usually include official transcripts, verification of completion of an approved teacher preparation program, student teaching documentation, Praxis score reports, background check materials, and the licensure application fee. The application fee for a North Dakota elementary teaching license is $90, and fingerprinting plus background checks can range from $50 to $100.

North Dakota also requires ongoing professional learning after initial licensure. Teachers renew their licenses every five years, and renewal includes 60 hours of professional development. Eligible activities may include approved workshops, graduate coursework, district training, conferences, or other education-related learning experiences.

Licensure Process Checklist

1. Finish a bachelor’s degree in elementary education through an approved preparation program.
2. Complete the required student teaching placement.
3. Pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests and the required Praxis Subject Assessments.
4. Complete fingerprinting and the criminal background check.
5. Submit official documents and the $90 application fee to the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board.
6. Monitor your application and respond quickly if additional documents are requested.
7. Track professional development hours during the license period so renewal is easier.

If you later become interested in university teaching, advising, academic administration, or research-oriented roles, you can compare school-based teaching with broader academic careers in higher education.

What is the difference between traditional and alternative teacher certification programs in North Dakota?

North Dakota offers more than one route into teaching. The right option depends on your current education level, career timeline, budget, and how much classroom experience you already have. A traditional program is usually best for students who are beginning college or want a full undergraduate teacher preparation experience. An alternative route may fit career changers who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want a faster transition into the classroom.

Traditional Teacher Certification Programs

Traditional programs are usually built into a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Students take education courses, complete field observations, work through methods classes, and finish student teaching before applying for licensure. Examples identified in the original article include:

• North Dakota State University (NDSU): Offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with practical teaching experiences, including student teaching placements.
• University of North Dakota (UND): Provides an elementary education pathway that connects educational theory with classroom practice in varied learning environments.

Alternative Teacher Certification Programs

Alternative certification is designed for people who already have a bachelor’s degree outside education or who are moving into teaching from another profession. These programs can allow candidates to complete required coursework and assessments while entering the classroom more quickly. Examples identified in the original article include:

• Teach North Dakota: A pathway that can allow candidates to work in schools while completing licensing requirements, often with attention to high-need areas.
• North Dakota’s Alternative Teacher Certification Program: A route for individuals who complete designated coursework and required assessments while progressing toward full licensure.

Traditional vs. Alternative Certification: Which Route Fits You?

The chart below shows common jobs for people who complete an education degree.

How long does it take to become an elementary school teacher in North Dakota?

For most first-time college students, becoming an elementary school teacher in North Dakota takes approximately four to five years. That estimate includes the bachelor’s degree, teacher preparation coursework, student teaching, exam preparation, and licensure application review.

• Bachelor’s degree: A full-time student typically completes a bachelor’s degree in about four years. Students who transfer credits, attend part time, change majors, or need prerequisite coursework may take more or less time.
• Student teaching: Teacher preparation includes a supervised student-teaching placement. The original article identifies this experience as lasting a minimum of 10 consecutive weeks. Because student teaching is intensive, many candidates reduce outside work during this period.
• Licensure exams: Candidates must prepare for and pass the Praxis I and Praxis II tests referenced in the original article. Some students pass on the first attempt; others need additional study time or retesting.
• License application: First-time applicants may pursue North Dakota’s two-year “Initial In-State License.” Once all materials are submitted, processing can take several weeks.

Typical Timeline

Candidates comparing requirements across states can also review the steps to become a teacher in South Carolina to see how licensure pathways differ by location.

Are online education programs accepted for teacher licensure in North Dakota?

Online elementary education programs can be accepted for North Dakota teacher licensure when they meet the state’s approval and accreditation expectations. The delivery format matters less than whether the program is properly accredited, includes approved teacher preparation, provides valid field experiences, and prepares students for the required Praxis assessments.

• Accreditation is nonnegotiable: The North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board expects teacher preparation programs to meet recognized standards. Programs accredited by bodies such as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) are commonly reviewed as part of licensure eligibility.
• Field placement must be real and supervised: A fully online program still needs classroom-based observation, practicum, or student teaching. Ask where placements occur, who supervises them, and whether North Dakota schools accept the arrangement.
• Out-of-state online programs require extra caution: A program designed for another state may not automatically satisfy North Dakota requirements. Before enrolling, ask the program and the state board how graduates qualify for North Dakota licensure.
• Flexibility should not replace support: Strong online programs provide advising, licensure guidance, test preparation, field placement coordination, and access to instructors.

Before Enrolling in an Online Program, Ask These Questions

1. Is the program approved for elementary teacher licensure in North Dakota?
2. Who arranges student teaching, and can it be completed in or near my community?
3. Does the curriculum prepare students for the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators tests and elementary Praxis Subject Assessments?
4. Will the school provide written confirmation of licensure eligibility?
5. What happens if I move states before finishing the program?

How does an online elementary education program in North Dakota compare to an on-campus program?

Online and on-campus elementary education programs can both lead to licensure if they satisfy North Dakota requirements. The better choice depends on your schedule, location, learning style, need for campus support, and ability to complete fieldwork.

North Dakota State University offers online degrees that may be more affordable than some private institutions, but students should compare full program cost rather than relying on tuition alone. For licensure, the most important question is not whether a program is online or in person; it is whether the program is approved, accredited, and structured to meet North Dakota classroom experience requirements.

What is the average cost of elementary education programs in North Dakota?

The cost of becoming an elementary teacher in North Dakota depends on the institution, residency status, delivery format, housing choice, textbook expenses, testing, and credentialing fees. A bachelor’s degree is a major investment, so candidates should compare the total cost of completion rather than only the advertised tuition rate.

• Tuition and fees: At the University of North Dakota, tuition and fees for the bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education are described as competitive compared with national averages. Exact totals can change, so students should use the school’s current cost page before making a decision.
• Room and board: Living on campus at UND can be more economical than off-campus housing, with an average monthly cost difference of about $160. This can matter over multiple semesters.
• Textbooks and materials: Textbook costs often range from $500 to $1,000 per academic year. Education majors may also need assessment materials, classroom supplies, technology, or transportation to field placements.
• Testing and credentialing: After the degree, graduates should budget for exams, the $90 license application fee, fingerprinting, and background checks that can range from $50 to $100.
• Financial aid: Many students receive financial aid averaging around $13,500 annually. Aid can reduce immediate out-of-pocket costs, but students should still understand loan repayment and total debt.
• Potential return: UND reports that graduates earn about $11,000 more annually than peers from other four-year institutions a decade after graduation. This should be treated as one data point, not a guaranteed outcome for every graduate.

Cost Factors to Compare

Students comparing education-adjacent online graduate or professional pathways may also want to review the best online library science programs, especially if they are considering school library, literacy, or instructional resource roles later.

What financial incentives are available to address North Dakota’s teacher shortage?

Because North Dakota continues to experience teacher staffing needs, prospective and current educators should look closely at scholarships, grants, loan forgiveness, relocation support, and district benefits. Incentives can change, so verify eligibility, deadlines, service obligations, and repayment rules before accepting funding.

Student Loan Forgiveness

The Teacher Shortage Loan Forgiveness Program offers partial loan forgiveness for educators who teach in high-need areas, including rural districts or fields with critical shortages. Eligible elementary educators can receive up to $6,500 over a three-year period. This can be meaningful for graduates with student loans, but applicants should confirm whether their position, district, and loan type qualify.

Scholarships and Grants

Future teachers may qualify for state-specific scholarship and grant programs, including the North Dakota Academic Scholarship and the North Dakota Indian Scholarship. These funds can support education students who meet academic, demographic, or program-specific criteria.

Relocation Bonuses

Some districts use relocation bonuses to attract teachers to areas with urgent staffing needs. These bonuses can range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the district and demand. Candidates should ask whether the bonus requires a minimum employment period or repayment if they leave early.

Benefits and Long-Term Compensation

Compensation is more than salary. Retirement programs, health insurance, professional development stipends, mentoring, and housing or moving assistance can affect the overall value of a teaching job, particularly in rural communities.

Federal Support

The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides up to $4,000 annually for eligible education students who commit to teaching in low-income schools for a specified period. Students should understand the service obligation because grants may convert to loans if requirements are not met.

If you want a broader view of statewide licensure and employment preparation, review this guide on how to become a teacher in North Dakota.

How to choose the best elementary education program in North Dakota?

The best elementary education program is the one that gets you to licensure, prepares you for real classrooms, fits your finances, and supports your preferred career setting. Do not choose based only on name recognition or tuition. Ask whether the program can help you become licensed in North Dakota without extra coursework after graduation.

• Accreditation and state approval: Confirm whether the program is accredited by a recognized body such as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved for North Dakota licensure.
• Curriculum fit: Review whether the program includes literacy, math methods, classroom management, assessment, special education, technology integration, and culturally responsive teaching.
• Field experience quality: Strong programs provide early classroom exposure before student teaching, not just one final placement.
• Licensure advising: The school should clearly explain exams, documentation, application steps, background checks, and renewal basics.
• Faculty access: Ask how often students meet with faculty, whether instructors have elementary classroom experience, and how struggling students receive support.
• Job placement support: Look for resume help, district connections, mock interviews, placement partnerships, and alumni networks.
• Total cost: Include tuition, fees, books, placement travel, exams, licensure fees, and the financial impact of student teaching.
• Community fit: Rural and urban school placements can feel very different. Choose a program that exposes you to the type of setting where you may want to teach.

Questions to Ask Before You Enroll

How can I access ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance my teaching skills in North Dakota?

Professional development is not just a renewal requirement; it is how teachers keep up with changing curriculum standards, student needs, classroom technology, and evidence-based instructional practice. North Dakota teachers can use district workshops, college coursework, professional conferences, online training, mentorship programs, and specialized certifications to meet the required 60 hours of professional development for five-year license renewal.

Choose professional development strategically. If your classroom includes students with disabilities, prioritize inclusive instruction and intervention training. If reading outcomes are a concern, look for literacy-focused coursework. Teachers interested in deeper inclusive education preparation can compare related requirements in other states, including this guide on how to become a special education teacher in Ohio.

How can pursuing advanced education boost my teaching career in North Dakota?

Graduate education can help elementary teachers move into specialized, leadership, or student support roles. A master’s degree, endorsement coursework, or doctoral program may support advancement into curriculum development, instructional coaching, school leadership, counseling-related support, or teacher mentoring. However, advanced education is most valuable when it aligns with a specific goal rather than being pursued only for a credential.

For example, teachers who want stronger tools for supporting student well-being may evaluate counseling-focused graduate study. This article on Is a master's in counseling worth it? can help educators think through the practical value, costs, and career implications of that path.

Is it possible to integrate an art specialization into my elementary education career in North Dakota?

Yes. Elementary teachers can strengthen their classrooms by adding art-focused methods, creative lesson design, visual learning strategies, or an art endorsement pathway where available. This can be especially useful for teachers who want to support hands-on learning, interdisciplinary projects, and student creativity across core subjects.

If you want art to become a formal part of your teaching career rather than an occasional classroom activity, review the steps for how to become an art teacher in North Dakota.

How do mentorship and support programs benefit new elementary teachers in North Dakota?

New teachers often need help translating preparation program theory into daily classroom routines. Mentorship programs can provide guidance on lesson pacing, classroom management, parent communication, assessment, differentiation, and school expectations. Strong induction support can also reduce the isolation that many first-year teachers feel, especially in small or rural districts.

Mentoring works best when it is structured. New teachers should ask whether they will receive a trained mentor, regular observation feedback, common planning time, and support during the first grading periods. Educators who later want to move into district leadership, research-informed school improvement, or advanced instructional roles can also explore the cheapest online EdD programs as a long-term career development option.

How can elementary teachers collaborate with speech-language professionals in North Dakota?

Elementary teachers regularly support students with speech, language, fluency, and communication needs. Collaboration with speech-language professionals can improve classroom participation, reading development, social communication, and individualized interventions. Teachers can help by sharing classroom observations, reinforcing strategies during lessons, adapting instructions, and participating in support team meetings.

You do not need to become a speech-language pathologist to collaborate effectively, but understanding the role can improve communication with specialists and families. Educators who want a deeper view of this field can learn how to be a speech therapist in North Dakota.

How can early childhood education experience enhance an elementary teaching career in North Dakota?

Early childhood experience can make elementary teachers more effective, especially in kindergarten through the early grades. It helps teachers understand developmental readiness, play-based learning, early literacy, social-emotional growth, fine motor development, and family engagement. These skills are valuable because early elementary classrooms often include children at very different developmental stages.

Teachers who want to strengthen this foundation can review how to become a preschool teacher in North Dakota and consider whether early childhood coursework or experience would complement their elementary license goals.

How can I transition to teaching in a private school in North Dakota?

Private schools may use hiring criteria that differ from public school districts. Some place greater emphasis on subject expertise, mission fit, classroom experience, religious or philosophical alignment, or demonstrated instructional skill. However, holding a state teaching license can still strengthen your application and increase flexibility if you later move between private and public schools.

Before accepting a private school role, ask about certification expectations, salary, benefits, curriculum autonomy, class size, contract terms, professional development, and whether experience will count toward future public school employment. For a focused overview, see how to become a private school teacher in North Dakota.

What is the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in North Dakota?

The lowest-cost route depends on what you already have. A first-time student may save money by choosing an affordable in-state program, transferring credits, applying for scholarships, and avoiding excess electives that do not count toward licensure. A bachelor’s degree holder may reduce time and cost through an approved alternative certification pathway if eligible.

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Confirm licensure alignment before enrolling so you do not pay for extra coursework later.
• Use transfer credits carefully, but verify that education prerequisites still apply.
• Compare public, private, online, and alternative routes by total cost through licensure.
• Budget for exams, fingerprinting, background checks, and the $90 application fee.
• Apply for scholarships, grants, loan forgiveness, and district incentives early.
• Ask whether student teaching can be completed near your home to reduce travel or housing costs.

For a pathway-specific discussion, review the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in North Dakota.

What are the key differences in qualifications between elementary and high school teaching in North Dakota?

Elementary and high school teaching require different preparation because the work is different. Elementary teachers usually teach multiple subjects and focus heavily on child development, literacy, numeracy, classroom routines, and foundational learning. High school teachers typically specialize in one subject and need deeper content preparation in that discipline.

Candidates considering secondary math can compare expectations by reviewing the high school math teacher qualifications in North Dakota.

How can additional certifications boost my teaching career in North Dakota?

Additional certifications and endorsements can help elementary teachers move into higher-need areas, qualify for specialized assignments, and become more competitive for leadership roles. Useful areas may include special education, reading, ESL, STEM, early childhood education, curriculum and instruction, or instructional technology.

Before pursuing an added credential, ask whether it improves your employability in the districts where you want to work, whether it increases compensation, and how much time and cost it requires. For a broader explanation of credential categories, see the teaching certificate requirements in North Dakota.

What challenges do elementary teachers face in North Dakota and how can they be overcome?

Elementary teachers in North Dakota may face staffing shortages, rural placement challenges, limited resources, broad student needs, administrative responsibilities, and the pressure to support both academic and social-emotional growth. These challenges do not make the career unworkable, but they do make preparation and support essential.

Common Challenges and Better Responses

If your main concern is timing, this guide on how long does it take to become a teacher in North Dakota can help you compare route lengths and planning issues.

What types of specializations are available within elementary education in North Dakota?

Specializations can help elementary teachers serve specific student populations, deepen instructional expertise, or qualify for roles beyond the general classroom. They are especially useful when they match local district needs.

• Special education: Prepares teachers to support students with disabilities and diverse learning needs. The original article notes that approximately 14% of public school students receive special education services, showing why this expertise is valuable.
• English as a Second Language (ESL): Helps teachers support multilingual learners with language development, classroom participation, and academic vocabulary.
• Reading specialist: Focuses on literacy development, reading intervention, assessment, and support for students who struggle with foundational reading skills.
• STEM education: Strengthens instruction in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through inquiry-based and problem-solving methods.
• Curriculum and instruction: Builds skill in designing lessons, aligning assessments, improving instructional materials, and supporting teacher teams.

How to Choose a Specialization

Choose a specialization by comparing three factors: student need, district demand, and your own strengths. A specialization should make you a better teacher, not just add letters to your resume. Ask local districts which endorsements or skills are most useful before paying for additional coursework.

What career paths are available for elementary school teachers in North Dakota?

An elementary education background can lead to classroom teaching and several related school roles. Some positions require additional credentials, graduate education, or experience, but understanding the options early can help you plan your coursework and endorsements.

Teachers who want stronger developmental expertise may find it useful to review child development degree details before choosing a graduate program or specialization.

What other teaching opportunities are available in North Dakota?

Elementary education is only one route into North Dakota classrooms. Candidates may also consider middle school, high school, special education, early childhood education, art, math, school support, or private school roles. Each path has its own licensure or hiring expectations, so do not assume an elementary license automatically qualifies you for every grade level or subject.

If you are interested in teaching older students and have strong math skills, compare the requirements for how to become a middle school math teacher in North Dakota.

What is the job market for elementary school teachers in North Dakota?

The North Dakota job market for elementary school teachers combines steady need with modest projected growth. The state has unfilled teaching positions, but candidates should still compare districts, salary schedules, benefits, rural versus urban opportunities, and support for new teachers.

• Projected growth: Elementary school teaching positions in North Dakota were projected to grow by 0.73% annually from 2018 to 2028.
• Employment levels: In 2018, the state had approximately 4,110 elementary school teachers, with the number expected to increase to around 4,410 by 2028.
• Entry-level salary: In 2019, the average entry-level salary for elementary school teachers was about $39,720.
• Experienced salary: Teachers with more experience had an average annual salary of $77,630.
• Overall average: The overall average salary for all teachers in the state was approximately $55,630.
• Location differences: Urban areas often offer higher salaries than rural areas, but cost of living, housing, commute time, class size, and district benefits can change the real value of a job offer.

How to Evaluate a Teaching Job Offer

• Compare salary schedule steps, not only the first-year salary.
• Ask about health insurance, retirement, paid leave, relocation support, and professional development funding.
• Find out whether the district provides a mentor for new teachers.
• Ask how many preparations, subjects, or grade levels you will teach.
• Consider housing availability and commute time, especially in rural placements.
• Review class size, special education support, paraprofessional support, and curriculum resources.

Teachers who want to broaden their credentials or build arts-related teaching expertise may also explore budget online MFA degrees, though candidates should verify whether any program directly supports their teaching goals before enrolling.

The chart below provides a comparison of median annual salaries for different types of educators in the United States.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Becoming an Elementary Teacher in North Dakota

• Choosing a program without confirming licensure approval: Accreditation and state approval should be checked before you enroll, not after graduation.
• Looking only at tuition: Books, housing, testing, background checks, transportation, and student teaching costs can change the real price of a program.
• Assuming every online degree qualifies: Online programs can work, but only if they meet North Dakota licensure and field placement requirements.
• Waiting too long to prepare for Praxis exams: Build exam preparation into your degree timeline so testing does not delay your application.
• Ignoring renewal requirements: Track professional development hours throughout the five-year license period instead of scrambling near renewal.
• Relying only on rankings or reputation: A highly visible program may not be the best fit if it lacks strong placement support, advising, or affordability.
• Assuming salary outcomes are guaranteed: Salary depends on district, experience, contract terms, benefits, location, and education level.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming an Elementary School Teacher in North Dakota

References:

• BestColleges (2024, June 10). How to Become a Teacher in North Dakota. BestColleges teacher certification guide
• Career Outlook in the US. Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education in North Dakota. Career Outlook in the US elementary teacher profile Additional North Dakota certification overview
• Dakota Dreams. Teacher Education Career Profile. Dakota Dreams teacher education profile
• North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. Renewing a License. North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board license renewal information
• University of North Dakota (2024). Elementary Education Degree Cost. University of North Dakota elementary education cost page

Key Insights

• The standard route to becoming an elementary school teacher in North Dakota is a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, approved teacher preparation, student teaching, Praxis exams, a background check, and state licensure.
• Most candidates should plan for approximately four to five years from starting a bachelor’s degree to becoming licensed, although alternative certification may be faster for eligible bachelor’s degree holders.
• Online programs can be valid, but only if they meet accreditation, state approval, student teaching, and licensure requirements. Always verify before enrolling.
• Licensure is not free: the application fee is $90, and fingerprinting plus background checks can range from $50 to $100. Testing, books, travel, and student teaching costs should also be included in your budget.
• North Dakota teachers renew licenses every five years and must complete 60 hours of professional development, so ongoing learning should be planned from the beginning of your career.
• Financial incentives, including loan forgiveness up to $6,500 over a three-year period, relocation bonuses ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, and TEACH Grants of up to $4,000 annually, can reduce costs for eligible candidates.
• The best program is not automatically the cheapest or most recognizable. Choose one that is approved for licensure, offers strong field placements, supports Praxis preparation, and fits your career goals.
• Specializations such as special education, ESL, reading, STEM, and curriculum and instruction can improve classroom effectiveness and may expand career options in districts with specific staffing needs.