university of illinois springfield

What you'll study

The programme combines foundations of education with subject‑specific methods and practicum experience. Core areas include educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, assessment and measurement, classroom management, and diversity and inclusion in schooling. Students follow a sequence of courses that builds from introductory theory to advanced methods and culminates in an extended student‑teaching placement in partner schools.

• Foundations and theory: history and philosophy of education, learning theories, human development and adolescent psychology.
• Curriculum and instruction: lesson design, differentiated instruction, standards‑based planning and assessment strategies.
• Subject‑specific methods: methods courses for elementary or secondary specialisms (literacy and numeracy methods; content pedagogy for science, mathematics, social studies, or language arts).
• Inclusive practice and special education: adaptations, co‑teaching models, behaviour supports and legal/ethical issues.
• Technology and assessment: educational technology for teaching and learning, data‑informed decision making, formative and summative assessment techniques.
• Field experience and student teaching: early practicum placements progressing to a full‑time supervised student teaching internship in local K–12 schools with seminars and mentor feedback.

Electives and seminars allow students to pursue interests such as literacy coaching, bilingual education, STEM education, or educational leadership. Course scheduling often supports a cohort progression and includes opportunities for part‑time, evening or blended delivery depending on individual needs.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Illinois Springfield undergraduate programmes is required before entering the Bachelor in Education curriculum. In addition to general university admission, entry to the teacher preparation programme typically requires completion of specified prerequisite coursework, submission of an application to the teacher education unit, and documentation of readiness for professional study.

• Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent; transfer applicants with college credits apply through the standard transfer process.
• Candidates must demonstrate coursework and competencies in areas specified by the programme (for example, foundational English and mathematics) and meet the programme's academic standards.
• Professional requirements include clearance checks such as background screening and immunisation documentation as required for participation in school placements.
• Progression through the programme is subject to milestone reviews, satisfactory performance in practicum placements, and any state licensure prerequisites for certification.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in education. The most common destination is classroom teaching in elementary or secondary schools, often following completion of state teacher licensure requirements. Beyond classroom roles, alumni work as:

• Specialist teachers (literacy, STEM, special education)
• Instructional coaches and curriculum coordinators
• School support roles such as behaviour interventionists or learning support staff
• Education programme officers in nonprofits, museums or community organisations
• Policy, advocacy and administrative roles after additional study or certification

Many graduates continue with postgraduate study (master’s degrees in education, educational leadership, or specialist certifications) to move into school administration, district leadership or higher education positions.

Why study at university of illinois springfield

UIS offers a teaching programme grounded in close partnerships with regional schools, ensuring sustained, high‑quality practicum and student‑teaching experiences. Class sizes are relatively small, enabling personalised mentoring from faculty who have PK–12 classroom experience and active research or professional engagement in education.

• Practical experience: Multiple in‑school placements and strong relationships with local districts provide early and authentic classroom exposure.
• Licensure support: Dedicated advising helps students navigate state certification requirements and transition from initial licensure to professional practice.
• Flexible delivery: Course scheduling and some hybrid options accommodate working students and non‑traditional learners.
• Community focus: Emphasis on equity, multicultural education and service learning reflects the regional community and prepares graduates for diverse classrooms.

Together, these features make the programme a solid choice for students seeking a practical, licensure‑aligned undergraduate preparation for careers in teaching and education.