Education Students

As a teacher candidate at NLU, you will partake in an innovative learning experience unlike most teacher preparation programs out there. Our program has several distinctive features that make us stand out, just like our graduates. Here are some of the unique elements of our program that will help you succeed as an educator.

Field based

All of our teacher candidates spend considerable time in the field prior to student teaching. We believe this is what sets us apart. We also believe that teacher candidates need lots of time to practice what they are learning in the college classroom.  

Research based, proven model

Our undergraduate professional courses use the Adaptive Cycles of Teaching, affectionately known as ACT. The ACT is a research-based model developed by NLU faculty that gives emerging teachers the practice they need in order to become skilled at high leverage practices when they enter the workforce upon graduation.

Our graduate NCE students — from new teachers to experienced administrators — use our research findings to make positive changes in their classrooms and school districts. Our incredibly diverse and dynamic student body forms the heart of an expansive learning community that includes partnerships and collaborations with schools, agencies and non-profits across Illinois.

Project based

In our classrooms, both on campus and online, you will not see a lot of lecture. What you will see is students working together, collaborating, learning from experience and research, and learning from each other. We hope it makes you more successful while you are with us, but, more importantly, we hope that it helps you see how good teaching and learning happens—in relationship with others.