Making a Difference That Lasts a Lifetime
For those drawn to a profession where impact is measured in transformed lives, special education offers a uniquely rewarding path. At Illinois State University's College of Education, this calling becomes a career supported by one of the nation's most respected and comprehensive special education programs.
Established in 1857, Illinois State University has evolved into a powerhouse for teacher preparation, with its Special Education program recently recognized as the #1 Best School for Bachelor's Students to Study Special Education in the US by College Factual.
Why Special Education Needs You Now
The field of special education currently faces a significant shortage of qualified professionals. Schools across the country have more openings for special education teachers than any other educational specialty, creating unprecedented opportunities for graduates with the right preparation and passion.
Special educators do more than teach—they advocate, innovate, and create inclusive environments where students with diverse learning needs can thrive from pre-kindergarten through high school. These educators become essential partners with families, helping children with disabilities navigate educational challenges and discover their strengths.
The Illinois State Advantage
What distinguishes Illinois State's program from others is its comprehensive approach to teacher preparation:
Immersive Clinical Experience
Students gain over 600 hours of diverse clinical experiences before they even begin student teaching. This hands-on training occurs in various settings, providing future educators with the confidence and skills needed to support learners with different abilities.
Complete Professional Preparation
The program culminates in a full-semester student teaching experience in communities throughout Illinois, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real classrooms while building professional connections. Student teachers will work under the guidance of a mentor teacher, often an Illinois State alum, and will receive support from their University Supervisor.
Specialized Licensure Options
Graduates earn both a bachelor's degree and teacher licensure as a Learning and Behavior Specialist for Kindergarten through grade 12, Teacher of the Visually Impaired for Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12, or Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12—specialized credentials that open doors to diverse career opportunities.
Financial Support
The College of Education offers targeted scholarships and grants specifically for future special education students, making this career path more accessible. Financial support is available for new and current students and many students find employment opportunities on campus.
Learning Through Technology and Community
Illinois State's Special Education Assistive Technology Center provides students with hands-on experience using cutting-edge tools that support diverse learners. This practical knowledge of assistive technology gives graduates a significant advantage in the classroom.
Beyond academics, students can participate in impactful organizations like Best Buddies, Redbird Sign Language Association, and Special Olympics, further enriching their understanding of the communities they'll serve.
From Current Students
"I picked special education to be an advocate for other people in my community. Going into special education can be very difficult but also very rewarding," shares a current undergraduate student majoring in Special Education.
The student adds, "At Illinois State University, the Special Education department is really a community and the professors are preparing us to have a strong mind and passion for helping students."
Join a Community Dedicated to Inclusive Education
As one of the largest special education programs in the country, Illinois State University offers more than just coursework—it provides entry into a supportive community of educators committed to inclusive education and student success.
For those considering a career where personal fulfillment and professional opportunity align, Illinois State University's College of Education stands ready to transform passion into expertise and dedication into impact.
To learn more about becoming a special educator through Illinois State University, visit education.illinoisstate.edu or connect on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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