Continuing Education
A full-range of master's and doctoral work in education is offered at Illinois State. To help accommodate inservice professionals, several programs offer coursework off-campus throughout Illinois.
Additional education in your current teaching field
Illinois State offers additional undergraduate or graduate courses in education that is defined by an applicant's licensure. Find your program. For career development, a master's degree is often the preferred choice.
Education in a new teaching field
Applicants who wish to teach in an area other than the one defined by their licensure may take courses to attach additional endorsements.
Leadership roles in education
Master's and doctoral program graduates serve in a wide variety of leadership roles in PreK-12 schools, higher education, research laboratories, think tanks, government agencies, and professional associations. These individuals advance their careers and hold positions as principals, superintendents, community college presidents, university presidents, and executive directors of statewide organizations.
I have my bachelor's degree in a field other than education and want to become a teacher.
For individuals who already have a degree, visit the Office of the University Registrar website for complete information.
What courses would I need to complete for a second bachelors?
Once admitted, student transcripts are evaluated, and each student is informed as to which courses must be completed for Illinois State to recommend licensure. Download the undergraduate catalog. Secondary education majors for grades 6-12 are housed in the college that offers the chosen subject area. For example, mathematics teacher education is housed in College of Arts and Sciences, and physical education teacher education is housed in the College of Applied Science and Technology.
How long will it take me to become licensed to teach if I'm a transfer student?
The length of the process varies by individual and can take anywhere from 1½ to 3 years. Time to licensure can be determined after an individual applies for admission and their transcripts have been evaluated. Individuals who pursue teacher licensure in an area where they hold a degree require less coursework than those pursuing a different subject area.
I am interested in obtaining a master's degree in education, but I do not have a teaching license. Can I obtain both at the same time?
Illinois State University does not offer a master's degree program that leads to initial teacher licensure at this time. Individuals who are interested in becoming licensed to teach must first complete an Illinois State Board of Education approved undergraduate program.
I do not have a degree in education. May I still become a substitute teacher?
In Illinois, individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in any field may apply for a Substitute Teacher license. Licensure is handled through the Regional Office of Education. To find contact information for a nearby office, consult the Directory of Regional Offices.
Interested in other continuing education opportunities?
National Board Certification
The National Board Resource Center advances teacher quality and student learning through National Board Certification.