How to become a parent educator in the state of Minnesota
If you’re passionate about supporting families helping parents thrive, becoming a parent educator might be the perfect path for you. Parent and family educators work with families in a variety of settings–from Minnesota early childhood family education (ECFE) programs and schools–to healthcare systems, community centers, and NGOs.
Parent and family educators empower parents as adult learners, support strong parent-child relationships, and build connected, resilient families. With relationships at the center of their work, these professionals become collaborators, creative problem-solvers, and advocates for the families and communities they serve.
But how exactly do you become one?
What does a parent educator do?
In Minnesota, parent education isn’t just a valued profession, it’s built into the public education system through statewide Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) programs. To work as a licensed parent educator in public schools or ECFE settings in Minnesota, you’ll generally need a bachelor’s degree, parent and family education coursework, and a Minnesota parent and family education licensure. Some roles may not require licensure, but most positions expect formal training in family systems, parent-child relationships, and curriculum development.
Why become a parent educator in Minnesota?
Minnesota is the only state in the country with a statewide, school-based early childhood family education (ECFE) system. This means the demand for licensed parent educators is high and backed by long-standing infrastructure.
Becoming a parent educator in Minnesota means stepping into a respected and deeply impactful role. You’ll work directly with families, often during critical early years and help parents gain skills they need to thrive. You’ll also have the chance to serve in diverse communities, build relationships across languages and cultures, and advocate for family-centered education.
Wait, what if I don't live in Minnesota?
Even if you’re not based in Minnesota, you can still pursue a meaningful career in parent and family education and benefit from the University of Minnesota’s program. The MEd in family education with parent education licensure is fully online that’s accessible from anywhere, connecting you with expert faculty and a diverse community of peers across the country.
While the licensure portion is specifically aligned with Minnesota’s ECFE system, many of the teaching standards, skills, and core concepts apply broadly to family education roles in other states and community settings. Graduates have gone on to work in nonprofits, health systems, adult education programs, and private organizations far beyond Minnesota.
If you’re interested in applying for the degree in a different state, reach out to your local licensing board and speak with a UMN program advisor to explore your options. The curriculum offers both practical training and flexibility - no matter where you live.
So, how do you become a parent educator?
To work in Minnesota’s public ECFE programs, you’ll need a parent and family education teaching license approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). That typically includes:
- A bachelor’s degree
- Completion of graduate-level coursework in parent and family education and child development
- Fulfillment of all licensure standards through field experiences and student teaching
- A demonstrated understanding of family systems, adult learning, and curriculum development
Some settings may not require licensure, but in public school systems, it’s essential.
Education pathway: MEd in family education with parent education licensure at the University of Minnesota
One of the most comprehensive and flexible ways to become a parent educator is through the MEd in family education with parent education licensure at the University of Minnesota.
This graduate-level program prepares you to both teach and lead in parent and family education settings. You’ll deepen your knowledge in areas like:
- Family systems theory
- Diversity and inclusion
- Child development
- Parent-child relationships
- Curriculum design and program evaluation
- And more!
The program also meets all PELSB licensure requirements, including student teaching and professional dispositions or values required. Upon completion, you’ll be eligible for recommendation for licensure and fully prepared to work in ECFE programs or related family education roles.
Why choose the U of M?
What makes the University of Minnesota’s program unique is its focus on real-world applications, not just academic theory. It’s designed for working professionals who want to grow their careers in family education while supporting the communities. Plus, students can tailor electives to match their interests.
It’s also one of the only programs in the nation that offers a professional teaching license in parent education, making it an excellent choice for those committed to making a lasting difference.
If you are ready to take the next step, learn more about the MEd in family education with parent education licensure.