Computer Science + Education: Secondary Education

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science+ Education with a concentration in Secondary Education is the only program of its kind in the state of Illinois. This program is sponsored by the Department of Curriculum & Instruction and the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science. This program provides computer science and education curriculum, preparing you to obtain a Professional Educator License (PEL) to teach grades 5-12.

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Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentration

The Secondary Education concentration provides the coursework and field experience for students to be licensed to teach computer science in grades 5-12, providing them with the knowledge necessary to teach and develop computer science curricula.

Courses That Introduce the Major

EDUC 201—Identity and Difference in Education
EDUC 202—Social Justice, School & Society
EPSY 201—Educational Psychology
CS 124 – Intro to Computer Science I
CS 128 – Intro to Computer Science II
MATH 220/221 – Calculus/Calculus I

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

The CS+ Education program prepares future educators, researchers, leaders, and passionate advocates. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a range of settings, including K-12 education, higher education, technology and software companies, government agencies, and research organizations.

Common Career Skills

Teaching/Pedagogy
Educational Assessment
Classroom Management
Communication
Technology Skills
Analytical Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

Middle School Teacher
High School Teacher
Curriculum Specialist
Game and Simulation Designer
Educational Software Developer
User Interface and Experience Designer
Mobile Application Developer
Educational Technology Consultant
Technology Specialist
Data Analyst
Education Administrator

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Association for Computing Machinery: The university’s largest computer science organization, with
  diverse interests and a strong student and alumni network.
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for
  careers in education.
- Leaders in Secondary Education: A student-led organization for aspiring high school students with opportunities for professional development, networking, and community building.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Computer Science and Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of computer science and education. These organizations include National Education Association, American Federation of Teachers, and Association for Computing Machinery.

Computer Science + Education: Learning Sciences

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science+ Education with a concentration in Secondary Education is the only program of its kind in the state of Illinois. This program is sponsored by the Department of Curriculum & Instruction and the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science, providing computer science and education curricula.

More About CS + Education

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentration

The Learning Sciences concentration focuses on how technology can be designed and developed to further education. Social media, virtual and augmented reality, data analytics, mobile and wearable devices have created an opportunity to transform teaching and learning in both formal
and informal contexts.

Courses That Introduce the Major

CI 210 – Introduction to Digital Learning Environments
CS 124 – Intro to Computer Science I
CS 128 – Intro to Computer Science II
EPOL 201 – Foundations of Education; or
EPOL 202 – Foundations of Education-ACP

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Common Career Skills

Communication
Technology Skills
Analytical Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

Game Designer
Simulation Designer
Software Developer
Web Developer
Curriculum Developer
User Interface and Experience Designer
Mobile Application Developer
Educational Technology Engineer
Educational Technology Consultant
Technology Specialist
Data Analyst
Instructional Designer
Data Scientist

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Association for Computing Machinery: The university’s largest computer science organization, with
  diverse interests and a strong student and alumni network.
- Project Code: A project-centered organization of like-minded peers that explores areas of
  computer science, such as app/web development, machine learning, game development, and
  more.
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for
  careers in education.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Computer Science and Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of computer science and education. These organizations include Association for Computing Machinery, IEEE Computer Society, and National Education Association.

Learning and Education Studies

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Learning & Education Studies allows you to explore education outside of the licensed teaching profession in a variety of learning and educational settings in K-12 education, higher education, business and technology companies, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and research organizations.

More About Learning and Education Studies

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Students must select one of two concentrations offered in this non-teacher licensure education degree:

Educational Technology

This concentration provides students with a strong background in the design, development, and implementation of technology for a range of learning environments. The concentration will introduce students to learning theory, designing and using technology to support learning, and issues encountered when deploying technology to schools, workplaces, and informal learning spaces.

Inclusive Leadership & Learning in Organizations

This concentration addresses the growing demand across sectors for graduates equipped to advance organizational change, lead in the workplace, and navigate barriers across diverse populations. Students will also learn how organizations can address contemporary environmental and political challenges to enact sustainable and meaningful change.

Courses That Introduce the Major

EDUC 205 – Introduction to Learning & Education Studies
CI 210 – Introduction to Digital Learning Environments
EPOL 201 – Foundations of Education; or
EPOL 202 – Foundations of Education -ACP
EPOL 215 – Intro to DEI in Educational and Workplace Environments

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Graduates will be prepared for careers in a range of educational settings, such as K-12 education, higher education, adult and continuing education, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

Common Career Skills

Communication
Training & Instruction
Technology Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

Educational Technology Specialist
Human Resources Specialist
Instructional Designer
Educational Policy Analyst
Training & Development Coordinator
Education Consultant
Museum Educator
Museum Exhibit Designer
Diversity & Inclusion Trainer
Program Evaluator
Equal Employment Opportunity Coordinator
Research/Project Coordinator
Coordinator of Student Engagement
Admissions Counselor

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for
  careers in education.
- Project Code: A project-centered organization of like-minded peers that explores areas of
  computer science, such as app/web development, machine learning, game development, and
  more.
- Human Resources and Psychology Organization: A student-led organization open to all majors,
  striving for personal and professional development through events and resources.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Learning and Education Studies. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Learning and Education Studies. These organizations include International Society of the Learning Sciences, Society for Human Resource Management, and International Society for Technology in Education.

Special Education

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Special Education prepares you to obtain an LBSI teaching license and teach students from kindergarten to age 22 with disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities, social or emotional disabilities, intellectual disabilities, physical or orthopedic disabilities, autism spectrum, or traumatic brain injury) in a range of educational settings.

More About Special Education

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

EDUC 201—Identity and Difference in Education
EDUC 202—Social Justice, School & Society
EPSY 201—Education Psychology
SPED 117—The Culture of Disability

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

The Special Education program prepares future educators, researchers, leaders, and passionate advocates. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a range of educational settings such as K-12 education, higher education, adult and continuing education, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

Common Career Skills

Teaching/Pedagogy
Educational Assessment
Classroom Management
Communication
Technology Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

Special Education Teacher
Special Education Advocate
Education Consultant
Early Intervention Specialist
Instructional Coordinator
Accessibility Resource Specialist
Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) Case Manager
Curriculum Specialist
Rehabilitation Counselor
Assistive Technology Specialist
Autism Center Director
Transition Specialist
Behavior Interventionist
Education Administrator

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for careers in education.
- Aspiring Educators: A preprofessional affiliate of the Illinois Education Association (IEA) and National Education Association (NEA) that empowers future educators through professional development, advocacy, community building, and service.
- Strengthening and Empowering Educators of Diverse Statuses (S.E.E.D.S.): A student-led organization that meets the unique needs of undergraduate students of color through open dialogue, mentorship, and community outreach.
- Golden Apple Illini: A student organization to foster of sense of unity among Golden Apple Scholars at the University of Illinois.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Special Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Special Education. These organizations include Council for Exceptional Children, International Association of Special Education and National Association of Special Education Teachers.

Secondary Education (Minor)

Major Description

The Secondary Education minor program prepares students to obtain an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) to teach grades nine through twelve in a specific discipline. Students must declare a major in their desired content area in the College of LAS or Grainger College of Engineering: Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science (major in Geology), English, Mathematics, Physics, or Social Studies (major in History) before applying to the Secondary Education minor.

Students must must be enrolled in the LAS major for their chosen content area. Students must transfer into the College of LAS in their major area of interest first and complete prerequisite courses in their major before applying into the Secondary Education minor.

More About Secondary Education

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Minor

To explore the Secondary Education minor, students can take the following courses (however, these courses are not required to be completed prior to applying to the minor):

EPSY 201 – Educational Psychology
EDUC 201 – Identity and Difference in Education
EDUC 202 – Social Justice, School and Society
At least one course in your desired content area

Students must have the courses below completed or in progress for their chosen major before they are able to apply for the minor:

Biology

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school (grades 9-12) biology through the AP/honors level and chemistry, earth and space science, environmental science and physics up to but not including the AP/honors level.

Chemistry

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school (grades 9-12) chemistry through the AP/honors level and biology, earth and space science, environmental science and physics up to but not including the AP/honors level.

Geology

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school (grades 9-12) Earth and Space Science through the AP/honors level and biology, chemistry, environmental science and physics up to but not including the AP/honors level.

English

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school (grades 9-12) English Language Arts through the AP/honors level.

Mathematics

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school math (grades 9-12) through the AP/honors level.

Physics

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school physics (grades 9-12) through the AP/honors level and general science (high school biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and environmental science up to but not including the AP/honors level).

History

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school history (grades 9-12) through the AP/honors level and high school economics, geography, political science, psychology, and sociology/anthropology up to but not including the AP/honors level.

Transfer Process

Students must transfer into the College of LAS or Grainger College of Engineering and declare their major area of interest. They must also complete prerequisite courses in their desired major before applying to the Secondary Education minor. The minor is completed during students’ last three semesters, with student teaching in their final semester. Interested students should consult with an academic advisor in their intended major and meet with the College of Education’s recruitment and admissions coordinator.

Possible Career Opportunities

The Secondary Education minor program prepares future educators, researchers, leaders, and passionate advocates. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a range of educational settings such as K-12 education, higher education, adult and continuing education, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

Common Career Skills

Teaching/Pedagogy
Educational Assessment
Classroom Management
Communication
Technology Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

High School Teacher
Reading or Math Interventionist
Curriculum Coordinator
Instructional Specialist
Assessment and Data Coordinator
Education Consultant
Family Learning Coordinator
Learning Specialist
Guidance Counselor
Education Administrator

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for
  careers in education.
- Aspiring Educators: A preprofessional affiliate of the Illinois Education Association (IEA) and
  National Education Association (NEA) that empowers future educators through professional
  development, advocacy, community building, and service.
- Strengthening and Empowering Educators of Diverse Statuses (S.E.E.D.S.): A student-led
  organization that meets the unique needs of undergraduate students of color through open
  dialogue, mentorship, and community outreach.
- Golden Apple Illini: A student organization to foster of sense of unity among Golden Apple
  Scholars at the University of Illinois.

Further Information

Please see the following link for getting started with the Secondary Education program.

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Secondary Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Secondary Education. These organizations include American Federation of Teachers and National Education Association.

Middle Grades Education

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Middle Grades Education program prepares you to obtain an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and to teach subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies in grades five through 8.

More About Middle Grades Education

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Students must complete 24-27 credit hours within at least one of the following concentrations: 1) Social Science, 2) Science, 3) Mathematics, or 4) Literacy.

Courses That Introduce the Major

EDUC 201—Identity and Difference in Education
EDUC 202—Social Justice, School & Society
EPSY 201—Educational Psychology
At least one introductory course for intended concentration.

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

The Middle Grades Education program prepares future educators, researchers, leaders, and passionate advocates. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a range of educational settings such as K-12 education, higher education, adult and continuing education, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

Common Career Skills

Teaching/Pedagogy
Educational Assessment
Classroom Management
Communication
Technology Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

Middle School Teacher
Reading or Math Interventionist
Curriculum Coordinator
Instructional Specialist
Assessment and Data Coordinator
Education Consultant
Family Learning Coordinator
Guidance Counselor
Education Administrator

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta Professional Teaching Organization: informs and involves future teachers in the changing field of education.
- Student Education Association: provides pre-professional educational development for future teachers.
- The Minority Association of Future Educators (MAFE): mission is to provide a support network for underrepresented students seeking to become professional educators and to address the educational needs of children, with an emphasis on children from underrepresented groups.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Middle Grades Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Education. These organizations include American Association of School Administrators, National Education Association, and American Federation of Teachers

Elementary Education

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Elementary Education prepares you to obtain an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and teach children in grades one through 6. The elementary educator supports social and emotional development and student learning across reading, writing, science, social studies, and mathematics.

More About Elementary Education

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

EPS 201—Foundation of Education
EDUC 202—Social Justice, School & Society
EPSY 201—Educational Psychology

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

The Elementary Education program prepares future educators, researchers, leaders, and passionate advocates. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a range of educational settings such as K-12 education, higher education, adult and continuing education, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

Common Career Skills

Teaching/Pedagogy
Educational Assessment
Classroom Management
Communication
Technology Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

Elementary Education Teacher
Instructional Coordinator
Before/After School Program Director
Curriculum Specialist
Education Consultant
Youth Program Coordinator
Family Engagement Specialist
Education Administrator

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for careers in education.
- Aspiring Educators: A preprofessional affiliate of the Illinois Education Association (IEA) and National Education Association (NEA) that empowers future educators through professional development, advocacy, community building, and service.
- Strengthening and Empowering Educators of Diverse Statuses (S.E.E.D.S.): A student-led organization that meets the unique needs of undergraduate students of color through open dialogue, mentorship, and community outreach.
- Golden Apple Illini: A student organization to foster of sense of unity among Golden Apple Scholars at the University of Illinois.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Elementary Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Education. These organizations include American Federation of Teachers.

Early Childhood Education

Major Description

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Early Childhood Education prepares you to obtain an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and teach young children from birth through grade 2. The early childhood educator helps young children with a range of abilities and needs develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically.

More About Early Childhood Education

Degree Requirements

ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

EDUC 201—Identity and Difference in Education
EDUC 202—Social Justice, School & Society
EPSY 201—Educational Psychology

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Common Career Skills

Teaching/Pedagogy
Educational Assessment
Classroom Management
Communication
Technology Skills
Equity & Inclusion
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Creativity
Adaptability
Teamwork & Collaboration
Organization
Professionalism
Initiative
Leadership

Common Career Titles

Infant/Toddler Teacher
Preschool Teacher
Early Education Teacher
Head Start Teacher
Childcare Consultant
Family Support Specialist
Child Life Specialist
Early Intervention Specialist
Child Care Center Director
Family Child Care Educators
Camp Director
Preschool Director
Education Administrator
Family Counselor

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Participating in undergraduate research
Applying for a study abroad experience
Utilizing resources of The Career Center
Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for careers in education.
- Aspiring Educators: A preprofessional affiliate of the Illinois Education Association (IEA) and National Education Association (NEA) that empowers future educators through professional development, advocacy, community building, and service.
- Strengthening and Empowering Educators of Diverse Statuses (S.E.E.D.S.): A student-led organization that meets the unique needs of undergraduate students of color through open dialogue, mentorship, and community outreach.
- Golden Apple Illini: A student organization to foster of sense of unity among Golden Apple Scholars at the University of Illinois.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Early Childhood Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Early Childhood Education. These organizations include Professional Association for Childhood Education and National Head Start Association.