I already have a bachelor's degree and want to become a teacher.
Illinois State University prepares more teachers and administrators than any university in Illinois. Nearly one of every eight teachers in the classrooms of Illinois public schools holds a degree from Illinois State. With a degree from Illinois State, students will be well-prepared to handle the day-to-day situations that teachers face.
The University is recognized nationally as the second-largest producer of teachers among American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education institutions. During the Fall 2007 semester, there were 4,633 teacher candidates (4,443 full-time and 190 part-time). There were 5,503 students enrolled in educational programs accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
At Illinois State University you can learn to become a teacher in early childhood (preschool), elementary, middle, secondary, bilingual, and special education classrooms. In addition to our teacher education programs, we have nationally-recognized graduate programs to prepare school administrators and higher education teachers. Illinois State offers 43 degree programs, from the bachelor to the doctoral-level, as well as numerous certification programs for practicing teachers and administrators.
Programs and degrees vary widely, but the common thread among them include coursework, clinical experiences in area school classrooms, and tests and assessments. Students must complete either one semester of student teaching or the Professional Development Schools (PDS) experience during their senior year.
Once you have 24 or more semester hours, you will be assigned an advisor within your major's department or school who will help you create an effective plan of study and monitor these plans so that you move through the curriculum without error or undue stress. Learn about academic support prior to this time.
Another place that you will find support and assistance is the Cecilia J. Lauby Teacher Education Center. It is the one-stop shop where you can acquire information and assistance as you work on meeting university-wide teacher education requirements.
You can get a feel of life at Illinois State University by taking a panoramic tour, viewing photos of campus, and hearing stories about campus life from our students.
Make sure you visit ISU. Open houses, information sessions, and one-on-one meetings with an admission representative are available.
Get admission information, including application deadlines as well as the the admission review and selection process.
In addition to our teacher education programs, ISU has nationally-recognized graduate programs to prepare school administrators and higher education teachers, as well as numerous certification programs for practicing teachers and administrators. Learn more continuing education opportunities.