Preparing Chicago's Best Teachers
The Urban Education program with Elementary Education Concentration develops students to become exceptional licensed teachers. Through their studies and field experience, Urban Education students help children and youth in urban schools achieve their greatest potential.
During the final two years of their studies, in a period called Candidacy, Urban Education students refine their skills with field experience and hands-on opportunities to learn about the diverse communities of Chicago, observe experienced educators, receive mentorship from top teachers, develop lesson plans, and eventually lead their own classrooms.
Endorsements: Grade Levels and Content Areas Heading link
As part of the program, graduates of BA Urban Education earn:
- The Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
- The Elementary Education Endorsement (for teaching Grades 1-6)
- Subsequent endorsement in Early Childhood Education (for students beginning Fall 2023)
Through additional coursework, Urban Education students have the option to add one or more of the following endorsements:
- Early Childhood Education (Birth to Grade 2) (optional for students starting before fall 2023)
- Middle Grades Endorsement (Grades 5-8) in English Language Arts, Math, Science or Social Sciences
- English as a Second Language (ESL) and/or Bilingual Education Endorsements
- Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS 1) for Special Education in Grades PK-21
Another essential component of the program is the extensive in-school immersion, with nearly 1000 hours of fieldwork experience that prepares teachers to lead in classrooms from day one. Students begin this in-school work at the beginning of their junior year.
Fieldwork for BA Urban Education students Heading link
| Junior Year (Fall) | Junior Year (Spring) | Senior Year (Fall) | Senior Year (Spring) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fieldwork requirements | 120 hours | 120 hours | 180 hours | 15 weeks (equivalent roughly to 450 hours) |
| Location | Community schools with diverse student populations that are typically under-resourced. | Community schools with diverse student populations that are typically under-resourced. | CPS school with mentor teacher. | CPS school with same mentor teacher. |
| Activities | Observe in multiple classrooms, develop lesson plans, collaborate with peers and mentors, teach lessons, work actively in pairs to support all classroom instruction. | Observe classes, develop lesson plans, teach lessons, working in pairs with carefully-selected mentor teachers. | Pre-student teaching practicum, working one-on-one with a specially trained mentor teacher, often a graduate of the BA program. | Full semester of student teaching with the same mentor teacher from previous semester. |
Degree Requirements Heading link
Degree Requirements Heading link
Overall: 120 credits
Core requirements: 60
Elementary Education Course Requirements: 60
Students get a professional educators license, elementary endorsement and a subsequent endorsement in early childhood education
Faculty Heading link
Frequently Asked Questions Heading link
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Why Urban Education?
This program dedicates its efforts to supporting kids and communities in Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods.
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What will I be able to teach?
This program offers licensure from birth through 6th grade with options for middle grades, bilingual/ESL, and special education.
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Do I have to do student teaching?
Everyone attaining an initial license must complete student teaching.
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How long does the program take?
This program is designed to be a four-year program.
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What is candidacy, and how does it relate to this program?
The State of Illinois uses the term candidacy for the pre-professional coursework and fieldwork that makes up the last two years of the program, ending in student teaching.
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How do I apply?
First year applicants apply through the UIC Office of Admissions.
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Can I afford it?
UIC makes every effort to help students pay for the cost of going to college. Our Financial Aid page can help answer your questions.
Review the UIC tuition and fee schedule and find out more about billing and payment options.
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Can I get housing on campus?
Yes, and it is best to apply as soon as you know you want to live on campus, because applications are prioritized by date of application. Visit campus housing to find out more and submit your application.
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What support does the College of Education provide?
The College of Education is a close knit community and committed to the success of its students. If you have concerns or questions you can stop by the Office of Student Services, or make an appointment to see an advisor. The College encourages a strong bond between students and their advisors. You can also find support from your professors and fellow students. UIC offers many support programs and opportunities that encourage academic success. Your advisor can help you connect to UIC resources.
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What is Summer College?
Summer College at UIC is a free, five-week summer program for newly admitted first year students that provide you with many paths to jump-start your academic success at UIC. You can improve your skills in math, computers, writing, note-taking, and studying. It’s a great opportunity to make friends with other new students, make connections with faculty and advisors, and get to know the campus. The College of Education encourages first year students to participate in Summer College. Programs begin in June shortly after the high school year ends.
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Will my credits from another college or university transfer to the College of Education?
Yes, if the credits earned are from an accredited institution. UIC participates in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI). To find out which courses will transfer to UIC, visit the transferology site. Questions about course transfers can be directed to UIC’s Transfer Assistance Center. Once you are admitted, you will meet with your College of Education advisor who can go over your academic records with you.