The Master’s degree in History Education (M.Ed. or M.S.) focuses on increasing pedagogical skills and history expertise and is ideally suited for current school-based educators. Candidates in this program complete a core of four pedagogical courses and at least nine credits of master 's-level history content coursework.

The total program of study is a minimum of 30 credits. Candidates who are interested in teaching dual credit courses must complete a minimum of 18 graduate credit hours in the academic field in which they will be teaching. Candidates work with their graduate committee and adviser to identify an appropriate plan of study. This degree plan does not lead to teacher licensure, and candidates are encouraged to work with their advisers if licensure is desired.

Program Highlights

• Flexible Delivery: Courses are available online, allowing you to balance your studies with professional responsibilities.
• Customizable Curriculum: Work with a graduate advisor to create a personalized plan of study that aligns with your career aspirations.
• Real-World Application: Gain hands-on experience through a practicum or research project, directly applying what you have learned to your professional context.

Career Paths

Graduates of this program often pursue roles such as:

• Teacher Leader
• Department Chair
• Education Program Specialist
• Mentor
• Curriculum Developer
• Instructional Coach
• Educational Consultant
• Adjunct or Community College Instructor

Program Details

• Credit Requirements: Minimum of 30 credits.
• Coursework: Areas of human development, learning, foundations of education, school curriculum, instructional strategies, assessment, history, and further study in areas of interest.
• Capstone Options: Choose between a thesis (M.S.) or a practicum/project (M.Ed.).

Plan of Study

Core Courses (12 credits)

EDUC 750 Reflective Practice & Educational Research

EDUC 751 Students and Their Learning

EDUC 752 Curriculum Design and Delivery

EDUC 753 Monitoring and Managing Learning

Elective Credits in History (15 credits or 18 credits for dual-credit)

Culminating Experience (minimum of 3 credits)

Both MEd and MS pathways are possible. The MS degree culminates in a thesis, and the MEd in a project.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Professional teaching or educational experience (preferred but not mandatory).
• Statement of Purpose outlining your career goals and program expectations.
• Statement of career goals consistent with the five propositions of the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) and reasons for applying to the program.
• Three letters of recommendation. The School of Education reserves the right to obtain additional information from qualified professionals about the student's professional competence.

Start Your Journey

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with program entry points in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. For more details or to begin your application, visit the NDSU Graduate School website.

For program-specific questions, contact Dr. Justin Wageman, K-12 Advanced Degrees Director.