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North Dakota's teacher education programs span an extraordinary cost range, from $3,455 at Sitting Bull College to $20,396 at Trinity Bible College. This nearly six-fold difference reflects the state's mix of tribal colleges, regional universities, and private institutions serving future educators. Turtle Mountain Community College stands out with a 54.50% graduation rate despite charging just $3,474 annually. The state's strong agricultural and energy sectors create demand for specialized teachers, particularly in science and vocational education, while the Academic Scholarship program helps high-achieving students afford their preparation for classroom careers across rural and urban districts.
12
Programs
$3,455 – $20,396
Net Price Range
$41,375
Avg. Program Earnings
48.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $3,455 $4,010 23.9%
2 $3,474 $2,626 54.5%
3 $10,725 $5,195 48.0%
4 $12,514 $8,634 47.8% 93.2%
5 $13,613 $8,514 48.1% 83.5%
6 $14,454 $7,935 40.3% 71.2%
7 $15,270 $9,118 43.4% 72.0%
8 $16,334 $10,857 63.7% 95.7%
9 $18,568 $21,468 68.2% 81.4%
10 $18,998 $10,951 63.3% 83.3%
11 $20,318 $24,820 44.0% 92.0%
12 $20,396 $18,762 38.8% 44.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes North Dakota's tribal colleges particularly affordable for teacher education?

Sitting Bull College and Turtle Mountain Community College charge just $3,455 and $3,474 respectively, making them the most affordable options statewide. Turtle Mountain achieves a 54.50% graduation rate, nearly matching larger state universities while maintaining extremely low costs for Native American and other students.

How do graduation rates compare between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

The cost-quality relationship varies significantly across North Dakota programs. University of Mary, at $18,568, achieves the highest graduation rate at 68.20%, while some affordable options like Sitting Bull College show 23.90% graduation rates. Valley City State University offers a middle ground with 48.10% graduation rates at $13,613.

Does earning potential justify higher program costs in North Dakota teacher education?

Graduate earnings remain relatively consistent across programs, ranging from $39,729 to $43,000 annually. Valley City State University graduates earn the highest at $43,000 while charging $13,613, suggesting strong value compared to more expensive private options.

Where can students find the best combination of affordability and graduation success?

Bismarck State College, Minot State University, and Valley City State University offer balanced approaches with net costs between $10,725 and $13,613. These programs maintain graduation rates near 48% while preparing teachers for North Dakota's varied educational needs at reasonable prices.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.