Elementary Education (M.Ed.)

The Elementary Education concentration within the M.Ed. in Instructional Leadership is designed for individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree and are seeking a career as a teacher of elementary-aged children in urban classrooms. The program consists of a carefully designed sequence of courses and field experiences focusing on the history and philosophy of democratic education; a commitment to developing the full potential of all elementary-aged children; research-based knowledge of practices for teaching core content areas of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies; and a commitment to collaborative leadership to enhance student learning. Emphasis is placed on creating classroom environments that respond to the needs and unique strengths of culturally and linguistically diverse groups of children. Students have the opportunity to earn a State of Illinois Type 03 Elementary certificate.