School of Education (Graduate Studies)
Balodimas-Bartolomei, Flanagan, Laukaitis, Maduram, Potererk, Walsh, Zervas
The North Park University School of Education prepares competent, respectful, and reflective professionals who are dedicated to serving diverse learning communities. Consistent with this mission and the University mission, graduate programs offered include a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (MAEL), Master of Arts in Education (MAE), and Master of Arts in Literacy, Language, and Culture (MALLC).
The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) leads to State of Illinois licensure in the following areas:
- Early Childhood Education (birth to Grade 2)
- Elementary Education (Grades 1-6)
- Middle Grades (Grades 5-8)
- Senior High (Grades 9-12)
- K-12 (Art, Music, Physical Education, Foreign Language)
Endorsements and approvals are offered in the following areas:
- English as a Second Language (E.S.L.)
- Bilingual Endorsement
- Combined Bilingual/ESL
- Learning Behavior Specialist I
In addition, subsequent teaching endorsements are offered to current teachers who hold a Professional Educator License.
The Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (MAEL) leads to State of Illinois licensure as a principal or teacher leader. The MAEL is designed to develop leadership skills in already licensed teachers who wish to be prepared for leadership roles in today’s schools.
The Master of Arts in Literacy, Language, and Culture (MALLC) is for licensed educators who wish to add the E.S.L. and bilingual endorsements to their existing license. The MALLC is designed to provide professional development for teachers who work with linguistically and diverse students in multiple educational settings. The Master of Arts in Education (MAE) is for professionals who wish to enhance and develop their knowledge and skills in the field of education.
The School of Education offers courses on the North Park campus in Chicago, and Arlington Heights with flexible schedules (including evenings and Saturdays). Cohort classes are taught by experienced faculty with a wide range of expertise.
Programs leading to licensure are continually reviewed to insure compliance with the requirements of the Illinois State Board of Education. In addition to the programs listed above, the School of Education offers a licensure only program which leads to a State of Illinois license but not to a degree.
Admissions
North Park University encourages the application of all qualified candidates interested in becoming teachers and school leaders, as well as those who want to further their understanding of the field of education. The School of Education places a high value on a candidate’s professional and academic work, past experiences and the candidate’s commitment to service. The Admissions Committee looks carefully at each applicant’s potential for success through a careful review of a candidate’s academic background, professional experience, personal achievement, test scores, and recommendations.