Burtness graduated from the academic department of the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks in 1906 and from its law department in 1907. He represented the University in several intercollegiate debates and was also active in The Mimer Society, a Scandinavian literary society.
Burtness's academic background included graduating from the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks' academic department in 1906 and its law school in 1907. He also participated in university-sponsored debates and was a member of The Mimer Society, which focused on Scandinavian literature and culture.