Earn Your Catholic Montessori Diploma from a Faithfully Catholic University
Catholic Montessori Training at Mary
The Catholic Montessori Institute (CMI) at the University of Mary offers Montessori diploma programs authentically grounded in the teachings of the Catholic Church, integrating Maria Montessori’s educational vision with the Church’s intellectual and spiritual tradition.
Whether you are new to Montessori education or an experienced guide seeking formal certification, our programs provide rigorous Montessori training within a faithful Catholic university setting.
AMI Montessori Diplomas — The Global Gold Standard
In partnership with the Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies (SIMS), an affiliate of the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), CMI offers AMI-recognized Montessori diplomas for teachers and guides. AMI diplomas are internationally respected and widely regarded as the gold standard in Montessori education.
Montessori Formation Rooted in the Catholic Tradition
Unlike secular Montessori certification programs, CMI integrates Montessori pedagogy with the Catholic intellectual and wisdom tradition, supported by the academic excellence and mission of the University of Mary. This formation prepares educators not only as skilled Montessori guides, but as teachers formed in truth, beauty, and goodness.
Catholic Religious Formation for the Child
For those seeking deeper integration of faith and education, CMI also offers Catechesis of the Good Shepherd courses — a child-centered, Montessori-based approach to Catholic religious formation that honors the spiritual capacity of the child.
Upcoming Trainings
At a Glance
Program Length
One Year
Format
Blended: Online with in-person modules at a local Catholic Montessori school in Bismarck, ND, and the opportunity to stay on the University of Mary's main campus.
Cost
Contact an admissions representative for pricing information
Start Date: May 2026
AMI Infant and Toddler Teacher Training Course (0-3 Diploma)
May 2026 – July 2027
This course is a thorough study of Montessori pedagogy for children from birth to three years old. The program integrates Montessori philosophy with medical and psychological perspectives on early childhood development.
Blended course: Online instruction plus two in-person summer modules at the University of Mary.
Initial Weeks Online Module: May 18 – 29, 2026
In-Person Module 1: July 20 – 31, 2026
Online Sessions: February 22 – March 12, 2027, and April 26 – May 21, 2027
In-Person Module 2: June 7 – July 10, 2027
- Montessori Pedagogy and Philosophy
- Practical Life
- Sensorial Development
- Language and Literacy
- Mathematics
- Cultural Subjects
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Nutrition and Hygiene
- Child Neuropsychiatry
- Development of Movement and Language
- Music, Art, and Spiritual Development
AMI Primary Teacher Training Course (3-6 Diploma)
May 2026 – July 2027
This course is an in-depth exploration of Montessori pedagogy for children ages 3 to 6. This comprehensive program integrates Montessori philosophy with contemporary insights into education and human development.
Blended course: Online instruction plus in-person modules at the University of Mary.
Initial Weeks Online Module: May 12 – 30, 2026
In-Person Module 1: July 7 – 17, 2026
Online Session 1: August 15 – September 12, 2026
In-Person Module 2: September 17 – 25, 2026
Online Sessions 2-6: September 29 – March 9, 2027 (with breaks between sessions)
In-Person Module 3: March 16 – 23, 2027
Online Session 7: March 30 – April 24, 2027
In-Person Module 4: June 7 – July 2, 2027
- Montessori Pedagogy and Philosophy
- Practical Life
- Sensorial Development
- Language and Literacy
- Mathematics
- Cultural Subjects
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Formation Courses
July 12 – 18, 2026
This Montessori-based method of religious formation has been developed for children up to age 12, bringing even very young children into contact with God through Sacred Scripture and the Mass. These courses are an optional part of the diploma courses above.
Ready To Enroll?
Contact your University of Mary admissions representative to talk through your specific training needs and apply today. We’re here to help!
Other CMI Offerings
The Catholic Montessori Institute also offers spiritual formation and professional development opportunities including:
- a transformative Catholic Montessori Retreat scheduled for June 9 – 11, 2026
- the third annual National Catholic Montessori Conference on October 8 – 10, 2026
- a pilgrimage to Italy exploring the life of Dr. Maria Montessori (dates to be determined)
Master of Education (MEd) in Catholic Montessori
Fall, Spring, and Summer Starts
Specially designed for working educators, our MEd in Catholic Montessori provides advanced formation in the Church's integrative approach to teaching and learning as well as the theory and practice of the Montessori method. Candidates receive 16 prior-learning credits upon completion of national Montessori certification requirements.
Want to Learn More?
If you have questions about any of the CMI’s offerings, we are just an email or a phone call away.