Become a Montessori Teacher
UNK's Montessori program is a full affiliate of the American Montessori Society, and accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education. UNK is currently the only university with these credentials that offers the opportunity to pursue AMS certification in a mostly online program.
Students have the opportunity to work with experienced instructors during a year of online coursework, followed by three weeks of in-person training during the summer. The program culminates in a year-long practicum experience at a UNK-approved Montessori school, ensuring that graduates enter their careers with real classroom experience.
Montessori coursework is offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree may choose Montessori as a minor. Graduate students may take the Montessori coursework only, or may pursue a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction with additional Teacher Education courses.
What is Montessori Education?
The Montessori educational instruction method has been transforming early childhood education for more than a century. Pioneered by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, this approach focuses on teaching the whole child—including social, emotional, and physical development alongside their cognitive development.
Montessori classrooms are easy to spot. Inside, children learn both independently as well as in groups, engaging with unique learning materials specially crafted to foster self-motivated growth in all areas of their development.
Professionals with Montessori expertise often find careers teaching in Montessori schools or in an increasing number of public schools seeking out Montessori-certified teachers.
Undergraduate Options
Graduate Options
Montessori Education Online
As a student in UNK's Montessori program, you’ll be able to complete the majority of your coursework online with highly qualified, experienced instructors, committed to excellence in online education.
After accepting a position in a Montessori elementary school, I began the UNK classes online to receive my Montessori training, along with a Masters in Curriculum & Instruction. I was able to complete everything remotely, including the rigorous Montessori classes during my summer break. The Montessori teacher education program prepared me to confidently teach, and support my students in their education. The professors at UNK supported me through every step of the process.
Accreditation and Certification
The Montessori Education program at UNK is an AMS affiliated and MACTE accredited teacher training program.
A Bachelor's degree will be required upon completion of Montessori undergraduate coursework in order to be recommended for full American Montessori Society certification. The Early Childhood AMS Associate credential may be earned without a Bachelor's degree.
Montessori programs do not lead to initial Nebraska teacher certification needed to begin teaching in public schools. Students pursuing certification in other states should check with their State Department of Education for certification requirements.
