DEPARTMENT OF
Education
Students ready to make a real difference in the lives of youth should look to the Department of Education at Elmhurst University. Our engaged faculty are active scholars and practitioners who will help students gain the knowledge and experience needed to be prepared for a successful career in an important profession.
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PREPARATION FOR A
Successful Teaching Career Elmhurst University offers 17 teacher education programs leading to Illinois licensure, preparing graduates to teach at every level across the U.S. and abroad. Our education degree emphasizes research-based best practices and extensive experience in the field, giving graduates a strong head start. Future teachers engage in hands-on, real-world applications, while practicing teachers are encouraged to bring new ideas and best practices into their classrooms.
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CORE VALUES: Advocacy We will listen, communicate and question to provide the best possible educational environment and experience for all students and their families.
Collaboration We value collaboration as the basis for developing and sustaining strong relationships with students, school partners, families, colleagues and alumni.
Anti-racism We will explore and identify inequalities in educational systems and processes to provide inclusive and equitable experiences and opportunities for ALL students.
Reflectiveness We achieve excellence through ongoing reflection, professional development, scholarship and participation in collaborative learning communities.
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION
Programs
B.A. IN EDUCATING YOUNG CHILDREN (BIRTH-GRADE 2) Students in the Educating Young Children program at Elmhurst take blocked courses based on developmental levels, complete field experience with close faculty support and graduate with both an English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement and Early Childhood Special Education Approval. Through the program, students gain experience with children from birth to second grade while developing skills in child development, curriculum design and family engagement. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and mentorship, ensuring graduates are well prepared for impactful careers in early childhood education.
B.A. IN ELEMENTARY TEACHER EDUCATION (K-GRADE 6) Elmhurst’s Elementary Teacher Education program equips future teachers to meet the diverse needs of today’s elementary school classrooms. With opportunities to add an ESL/Bilingual Endorsement, Reading Endorsement or math minor, our graduates stand out in the job market. Kindergarten can be added with a short-term approval through the ISBE.
B.A. IN ELEMENTARY SPECIAL EDUCATION (GRADES K-AGE 22)
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B.S. IN MIDDLE GRADES (5-8) MATHEMATICS Middle grade mathematics students will explore mathematics concepts necessary for fifth grade to eighth grade, while developing skills on how to be an effective, culturally aware and professional educator. Middle grade mathematics graduates will be fully educated in mathematical proficiencies, teaching best practices, professional readiness and licensure preparedness.
B.A. IN SECONDARY ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS EDUCATION (GRADES 5-12) The Secondary English Language Arts Education program equips students with the resources to integrate content and pedagogical knowledge to effectively teach students in grades 5-12. This licensure program allows students to foster creativity in their subject area while preparing to be an inspiring educator for the 21-st century learner.
B.S. IN SECONDARY MATHEMATICS EDUCATION (GRADES 5-12) The Secondary Mathematics Education program at Elmhurst allows students to pursue a double major in Secondary Mathematics Education and Mathematics, providing a strong foundation in both teaching and mathematical concepts. The coursework is designed to meet the requirements for Illinois teacher licensure, ensuring graduates are well prepared for successful careers in education.
SHAPING TOMORROW’S MATH TEACHERS Maddux Masopust, a Golden Apple Scholar and Noyce Scholar, found Elmhurst University to be the perfect place to combine his passions for education, mathematics, music and theatre. Actively involved on campus, he balanced a full course load with teaching placements, jazz ensembles and theatre productions, even composing original music in the University’s Gretsch Recording Studio. His diverse experiences sharpened his problem-solving skills and shaped his teaching philosophy, preparing him to inspire confidence in future math students. Supported by engaged faculty and a close-knit campus community, Maddux gained the professional preparation and hands-on experience needed to thrive as a high school math teacher. Maddux Masopust, Secondary Education Mathematics Major and Theatre Arts Education Minor ’26
D E PA R T M E N T O F E D U C AT I O N
The Elementary Special Education (SPEL) program is a unique program that provides students with training in both elementary education and special education methods. Graduates are prepared to be both special education and general education teachers, gaining the knowledge and skills to work with students who have diverse learning needs.
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B.A. IN SECONDARY SCIENCE EDUCATION (GRADES 5-12) The Secondary Science Education program at Elmhurst combines rigorous coursework in secondary education with the ability to double major or add a concentration in biology, chemistry or physics. Through hands-on laboratory work and field studies, students enhance their understanding of scientific principles, preparing them to inspire students in the sciences. Students in the Secondary Science Education program who double major in biology, chemistry or physics, will earn a major in both areas while meeting the Illinois teacher license requirements. Whether you double major or concentrate in biology, chemistry or physics, students will be able to teach advanced courses at the high school level in their chosen area.
B.A. IN SOCIAL SCIENCE EDUCATION (GRADES 5-12) The Social Science Education program offers a comprehensive exploration of historical concepts through a concentration in history or political science. Through interactive learning experiences, such as field trips and collaborative projects, students develop critical thinking skills and prepare to inspire high school students in the field of social sciences. Students that complete the Social Science Education program will have a double major in their area of concentration, history or political science, while meeting Illinois teacher licensure requirements and gaining professional experience.
B.A. IN SPECIAL EDUCATION (K-AGE 22) The Special Education program prepares students for licensure as a Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) to teach students with developmental, learning or emotional disabilities in kindergarten through high school. Students in the program earn the English as a Second Language (ESL) Approval for Special Education and may obtain Bilingual Special Education Approval.
Note: Students can earn a bachelor of science (B.S.) instead of a bachelor of arts (B.A.) if they take an additional math course that meets the B.S. requirements.
B.A. OR B.M. IN MUSIC EDUCATION (PREK-GRADE 12)
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Students in the Music Education program will participate in a major performing ensemble every term, expand their musical knowledge and work towards meeting the requirements for the teaching program.
B.A. IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PREK-GRADE 12) Elmhurst students interested in pursuing a physical education degree will gain hands-on experience even before starting their student-teaching process through opportunities to lead activities with a school or during a service-learning event. Graduates of the Physical Education program will have a comprehensive foundation for teaching in various settings, including PreK-12 schools, community programs and recreational facilities. Their well-rounded training encompasses curriculum development, health education and adaptive physical education, preparing them to promote physical activity and wellness among diverse student populations. See School of Health Sciences booklet to learn more.
B.A. IN THEATRE ARTS EDUCATION (PREK-GRADE 12) The Theatre Arts Education program provides students with a foundation in theatre theory and practical application through participating in major productions, while completing the required secondary education courses. Students in the Theatre Arts Education program will have the skills necessary to become licensed teachers and acquire valuable insights to excel as theatre arts educators. See Fine Arts Booklet for more information about our Theatre programs.
B.A. IN WORLD LANGUAGE WITH FRENCH OR SPANISH (PREK-GRADE 12) The World Language Education with French or Spanish program allows students to explore the French or Spanish language. Students in this program will achieve a double major in world language education and French or Spanish, while meeting the necessary credentials for the Illinois teacher licensure as well as earning career experience.
MINORS & ENDORSEMENTS •
Coaching
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Music Education
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Dance Education
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Reading Education
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Educating Students with Exceptionalities (LBS1)
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Teaching English Learners (ESL/Bilingual)
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Elementary School Mathematics Education
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Theatre Arts Education
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Health Education
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World Languages Education
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D E PA R T M E N T O F E D U C AT I O N
Through hands-on experience and active participation in musical events, graduates from the Music Education program will be set up for success in their professional careers in teaching music. See Department of Music booklet to learn more about our music programs.
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FIELD
Experience HANDS-ON LEARNING An education degree from Elmhurst University emphasizes active, hands-on learning through extensive field experiences in diverse educational settings. Elmhurst teacher-candidates apply their growing skills and knowledge, developing expertise by working with real students in real schools. Practical field work is integrated into every education course, providing a strong foundation beyond theoretical knowledge that gives graduates an edge in their teaching careers.
FIELD WORK FROM THE FIRST TERM All field-based assignments at Elmhurst University are directed by the course professor. Assignments from first term courses typically involve observation, interviewing and working with individual or small groups of students. The education curriculum at Elmhurst culminates in a final term devoted to teaching full time at an area school. During this time, students will continue to receive support from professors at seminars and on-site visits. This allows teacher-candidates to get relevant, hands-on practice so they are prepared and confident to lead their own classroom.
WELL- ROUNDED
Student Teaching Through comprehensive coursework and hands-on student teaching, our education programs equip future educators with essential skills to manage high-stress behaviors, de-escalate conflicts and foster a supportive classroom environment. From the first week, students engage in lesson data analysis, refining their instructional methods for maximum impact. A deep understanding of teaching standards ensures adaptability across diverse curricula and classroom settings. With dedicated mentorship from experienced educators, our graduates develop the confidence and expertise needed to create engaging, inclusive learning spaces—fully prepared to excel as full-time teachers.
#7
Regional Universities (Midwest)
From the start of my full-time student teaching, I felt prepared to step into the classroom with confidence. My coursework and prior field experiences had already introduced me to the staff, making the transition into daily teaching smoother. That foundation allowed me to focus on building strong relationships with the school community and adapting quickly. Emerson Azcoitia, Elementary Education ’25
FINANCIAL AID AND
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First Steps SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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Associated Colleges of Illinois Scholarships
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Whitener Scholarship *Must be admitted to a licensure program
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Golden Apple Scholarships
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Teachers of Illinois Scholarship
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS To enroll in an education program at Elmhurst, complete the following:
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2.75 minimum GPA
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Admission to Elmhurst University Application form for your specific program Criminal background check Department of Education program recommendation form
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Elmhurst University alum Víctor Gómez ’18 was named the 2025 Cook County Co-Regional Teacher of the Year and the 2025 Illinois Teacher of the Year! Gómez is a bilingual science teacher at East and West Leyden High Schools. He creates opportunities and advocates for his multilingual students to earn college credit through Elmhurst’s STEM Academy, collaborating with Elmhurst faculty and the high school to lead this initiative. During his time at Elmhurst, Gómez studied science education, biology and Spanish.
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION FUN FACT More than 1,700 Elmhurst alumni are teaching in Illinois schools.
D E PA R T M E N T O F E D U C AT I O N
The Department of Education at Elmhurst University offers special scholarships to support future educators on their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to invest in students and their commitment to teaching, so they can acquire skills for enduring success with fewer financial barriers.
GRADUATE EDUCATION PROGRAMS
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The Elmhurst experience is all about seeing teaching careers take flight. The endorsements and master’s degree programs listed below are tailored to working teachers and emphasize leadership and collaboration:
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M.S.Ed. in Special Education M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership Endorsements: ESL/Bilingual, LBS1 (Special Education), Teacher Leader
THE ELMHURST ALUMNI LEGACY Alumni who receive an undergraduate or graduate degree from Elmhurst may have the opportunity to take their first course for free upon enrollment in a degree-seeking program. Students with a direct relative who is an alum (father, mother, brother, sister, grandfather or grandmother) and who did not attend Elmhurst for their undergraduate degree may be eligible to receive a legacy scholarship when enrolled in a graduate degree program.
Are you ready to take the next step toward a successful and rewarding career in education? Connect with us today to discover all you can accomplish! Plan Your Visit
Office of Admission 190 Prospect Ave Elmhurst Illinois 60126 (630) 617-3400
admit@elmhurst.edu elmhurst.edu/Education