Montana State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, applied practice and a research component. Core topics typically include contemporary pedagogical theory, assessment and evaluation, curriculum design, educational research methods and learning theory. Students then select concentration courses in areas such as Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Special Education, Instructional Technology, or Literacy.

Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Research Methods and Statistics – design, analysis and interpretation of educational research to inform practice.
• Curriculum Development – frameworks for planning, aligning and evaluating curricula across grade levels and subjects.
• Assessment and Data Use – formative and summative assessment strategies and data-driven decision making.
• Instructional Technology – integration of digital tools and blended learning design for diverse learners.
• Special Education and Inclusive Practices – strategies for supporting students with diverse needs and individualized programme development.
• Educational Leadership and Policy – school improvement, organisational leadership, and district-level decision making (for leadership concentrations).
• Practicum / Fieldwork – supervised applied experiences in schools or educational settings, including internships or clinical experiences for certain specialisms.

Students may choose from thesis, project or coursework-only routes depending on career goals; the programme supports both practitioners seeking advanced professional qualifications and those preparing for further research at doctoral level.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Prior teaching experience or a current teaching certificate strengthens an application, particularly for classroom-focused concentrations, though some pathways are open to career changers with relevant professional experience. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals, and letters of recommendation. Some concentrations may require a sample of prior work, a supervisory reference, or evidence of licensure if pursuing certification or endorsement programmes.

International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency and provide official academic records. Successful applicants are expected to show a commitment to ethical professional practice and to the needs of learners across diverse settings, including rural and small-school contexts common in the region.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a variety of education roles across K–12 schools, higher education and educational organisations. Common career outcomes include:

• Advanced classroom teacher or lead teacher roles, often with specialised responsibilities such as literacy coordinator or special education lead.
• School or district leadership positions, including assistant principal, principal or programme coordinator (with appropriate certification where required).
• Curriculum specialist, instructional coach or professional development coordinator supporting teacher learning and programme design.
• Roles in educational technology, assessment design, or instructional design for schools and education-focused organisations.
• Further academic pathways into doctoral study (EdD/PhD) and research careers in education policy, teacher education or applied research centres.

Because Montana State emphasises applied practice and partnerships with regional schools, graduates are well prepared for leadership and specialist roles in rural and urban districts alike.

Why study at Montana State University

Montana State University’s College of Education has a strong regional reputation for preparing teachers and leaders for the specific challenges of rural and frontier schooling while also addressing broader educational issues. Students benefit from close partnerships with local and state school districts, which provide meaningful practicum placements and opportunities for collaborative projects.

The faculty are active in applied research areas such as teacher preparation, literacy, special education and technology-enhanced learning, offering students mentorship grounded in current practice. The university also provides flexible delivery options, including face-to-face and online coursework, to accommodate working professionals. Finally, its location fosters fieldwork opportunities across diverse educational settings and access to professional networks throughout the Mountain West region.