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 graduated from the academic department of the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks in 1906 and went on to complete his legal studies there in 1907. He also engaged in extracurricular activities, including intercollegiate debates and membership in The Mimer Society.