FAQs

Do you have a list of commonly used terms?

The Council on Teacher compiled the Education Preparation Program Terms Glossary, a helpful guide to navigating undergraduate and graduate UIC Educator Preparation Programs.

How do I take the correct courses to graduate with licensure?

The Council on Teacher strongly encourages all students in Educator Preparation Programs to meet with their program representative for answers about degree requirements. Some students may find the Sample Undergraduate Secondary Education Licensure Timeline  and the General UIC Catalogue helpful for advising questions.

What are the additional costs associated with Educator and School Personnel Preparation Programs?

Students pursuing an Approved Illinois Educator or School Personnel Preparation Program are responsible for all fees associated with the degree and non-degree program requirements. Additional Cost of Educator Preparation Programs are not dictated by CTE and may change at any time.

Do you have test preparation resources available to help prepare for the content test?

• Yes, we offer practice content test voucher codes to students. You can access the request form here. All voucher codes expire on March 30, 2025. You can request vouchers for your primary and subsequent endorsement areas as well. Voucher codes are sent out within two weeks of receipt of your request.
• UIC’s library has also established a Mometrix eLibrary that offers flashcards and practice tests aligned to the ISBE content tests. Access the eLibrary here.
• Additionally, the state of Minnesota also uses the same publisher, Pearson, for their teacher content tests. They have free practice tests and test prep materials available here.

Can I earn additional endorsements?

You can earn subsequent endorsements to add to your Professional Educator License (PEL) while enrolled in your educator preparation program and/or after you hold a valid PEL. Most additional endorsements require an additional 18 semester hours of coursework in the content area and passing results on an associated content test. For more information about subsequent endorsements, please visit the ISBE website at: https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Subsequent-Teaching-Endorsements.aspx. Please contact CTE with questions about earning subsequent endorsements via uic_cte@uic.edu.

Where can I find a job?  

On occasion, educational organizations, school administrators, and school districts reach out to the Council on Teacher Education to share job openings. Information from these entities will be shared on our home page. We encourage all educator and school personnel preparation students to contact with UIC Office of Career Services for career support.

How do I request to enroll in ED 425/ED 432?

Students are required to file a Request to Enroll Form to apply to take ED 425 (undergraduate) or ED 432 (graduate). There are degree specific requirements that must be completed prior to submitting your request to enroll. Students should contact their program representative and visit the Forms tab for more information.

What is a Petition for Student Teaching? How do I submit the Petition?

UIC teacher candidates may petition to student teach in their own classrooms (Illinois State Board of Education, Section 25.620).  These teacher candidates are still required to complete the entire student teaching process. Student Teaching Petition details can be found on the Forms and the Milestone 2 tabs.

What are the UIC Standards for Teacher Education?

The Council on Teacher Education (CTE) at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) requires that each candidate demonstrate the physical, cognitive, behavioral and social capacity to engage in all aspects of the professional education program, including course and fieldwork, and to develop the communication skills and dispositions required of educational professionals. To learn more about UIC Standards for Teacher Candidates click here.

Am I allowed to substitute teach while student teaching?

Substitute teaching during student teaching may be an option for students depending on their program, status in the program, placement school/district, and credentials. Please review the substitute teaching policy and contact your program for more information.

 I am an international student. Can I become a licensed educator in Illinois?

You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or hold a valid social security number to obtain an Illinois license, but you must hold a valid social security number to obtain employment as an educator. The employing school district must be willing to sponsor the international educator to obtain work authorization. For more information, please contact the UIC Office of International Services.