Undergraduate Programs
Elementary Education
Overview 
Earn a Professional Educator License (PEL) to teach grades 1–6. This program emphasizes
evidence-based assessment and instruction, effective classroom management, and instructional
planning across core subjects. Candidates learn to differentiate instruction, integrate
technology, and create inclusive, engaging learning environments. Extensive field
experience prepares candidates to meet the needs of today’s diverse elementary classrooms.
Why Choose Elementary Education?
- Apply evidence-based teaching and assessment practices
- Develop lesson plans across all core content areas
- Implement effective classroom management and differentiated instruction
- Utilize educational technology through hands-on experiences
Special Education/Elementary Education
Overview
Earn two Professional Educator Licenses (PELs): one in Special Education (K–age 21)
and one in Elementary Education (grades 1–6). This dual program prepares candidates
to assess, plan, and deliver instruction for students with and without disabilities
in inclusive and specialized settings. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based practices,
classroom and behavior management, differentiated instruction, and collaborative teaching.
Candidates also gain expertise in special education assessment, assistive technology,
and consultation with families and professionals.
Why Choose Dual Licensure?
- Expand your qualifications and career opportunities
- Develop expertise in both general and special education instructional strategies
- Practice inclusive teaching and collaborate effectively with educators and families
- Prepare for high demand as a dual-certified educator in diverse school settings
Middle School Education
Overview
Earn a Professional Educator License (PEL) to teach grades 5–8 with endorsements in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, or Social Science. This program prepares candidates to plan and deliver evidence-based instruction, manage classrooms effectively, differentiate learning, and integrate technology to meet the developmental needs of young adolescents.
Why Choose Middle Grades Education?
- Select from four endorsement areas aligned with your content expertise
- Understand adolescent development and apply appropriate teaching strategies
- Design interdisciplinary, engaging lessons using technology to support learning
- Develop effective classroom management and differentiation techniques for diverse students
Secondary Education
Overview
Earn a Professional Educator License (PEL) to teach grades 9–12 in your chosen content
area. Endorsements include English Language Arts, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology,
Social Science, History, and Political Science. This program prepares candidates to design rigorous, evidence-based instruction
tailored to adolescent learners, manage diverse classrooms, differentiate instruction,
and integrate technology to enhance learning. 
Why Choose Secondary Education?
- Select from multiple endorsements aligned with your content expertise
- Apply evidence-based teaching strategies for adolescent learners
- Design engaging, rigorous lessons that meet diverse student needs
- Utilize technology to support instruction and student achievement
Music Education
Overview
Earn a K–12 Professional Educator License (PEL) in Music Education. This program prepares
candidates to teach general, vocal, and instrumental music across elementary and secondary
levels. Coursework emphasizes musicianship, pedagogy, classroom management, and technology
integration to support diverse learners.
Why Choose Music Education?
- Develop skills to teach general, vocal, and instrumental music across all grade levels (K–12)
- Apply evidence-based music education and classroom management techniques
- Integrate technology to enhance music instruction and student engagement
Learn to support diverse learners in inclusive music classroom settings
Physical Education
Overview
Earn a K–12 Professional Educator License (PEL) to teach Physical Education. This program prepares candidates to promote health, fitness, and lifelong physical activity through developmentally appropriate instruction and behavior management in diverse school settings.
Why Choose Physical Education?
- Teach physical education across all grade levels (K–12)
- Design and implement developmentally appropriate fitness and wellness programs
- Manage active classrooms and promote positive student behavior
- Support diverse learners in inclusive physical education settings
Educational Studies
Overview
This non-licensure degree is designed for students interested in educational roles
beyond traditional classrooms. It prepares candidates for careers in diverse settings
such as hospitals, correctional institutions, museums, zoos, and other organizations
with educational programs. Students tailor the program with guidance from an advisor,
selecting coursework aligned with their academic and professional goals. The program
includes a variety of educational topics and a chosen area of emphasis, culminating
in an internship experience. Note: This degree does not lead to a Professional Educator
License in Illinois.
Why Choose Educational Studies?
- Explore educational applications across a variety of societal organizations
- Customize your program with advisor support to match career goals
- Engage in interdisciplinary coursework tailored to your interests
- Develop practical skills through experiential learning opportunities
