About the National College of Education (NCE)
What began in 1886 as a training school for kindergarten teachers evolved into a nationally-accredited college of education known for preparing exemplary educators. Today, the work of our passionate faculty, students, and alumni connects our rich past to a bright future of innovation and excellence that serves all learners.
Our goal is to prepare and advance teachers and educational leaders to improve schools and student outcomes with our work. At the National College of Education, we:
- Are committed to diversity and supporting the needs of all learners, regardless of race, ethnicity, socio-economic and educational advantage, religion, and other characteristics that create the vibrancy of our communities.
- Are committed to field- and practice-based programming that integrates theory, practice, reflection, and coaching.
- Recognize the centrality of carefully constructed digital learning environments and the seamless integration of advanced technological tools into education.
Download an overview of the NCE Vision and Framework
Learn more about NLU/NCE history
Mission
The National College of Education’s mission is excellence in teaching, scholarship, service, and professional development. Recognizing the importance of life-long learning in a diverse, rapidly changing global society, NCE is committed to developing and empowering all learners.
Vision
NCE will be a college distinguished for its demonstration of academic excellence and innovative professional programming provided to a diverse audience of adult learners. We will ensure that our students consistently have an excellent academic experience. NCE will contribute to knowledge generation that helps create more equitable and effective schools and healthier communities. Our future will be built on a solid foundation of financial sustainability.
Impact
NCE is leading change to improve schools and student learning outcomes. In the past year:
- The college served 3,486 students and conferred 861 degrees.
- More than 600 teacher preparation candidates fulfilled their student teaching requirements in 321 schools across 79 cities in eight states.
- 82% of teacher preparation graduates work in Illinois public schools.
- 71% of teacher preparation graduates serve in high-needs schools.
- 131 alumni are principals in Chicago Public Schools.
NCE partners closely with diverse stakeholders—including school and district partners, alumni, students, and members of the communities we serve—to deliver clinically-focused, technology-enhanced, context-specific, learner-focused, and evidence-informed scholarship and graduate education. Our comprehensive portfolio of programs prepares educators to succeed, persist and excel in all stages of their careers.
- View the 2020-2021 NCE Impact Report
Additionally, 80+ of our alumni have gone on to win the prestigious Golden Apple Award in Teaching and Leadership, presented to outstanding teachers and educational leaders within Illinois.
