Director of Special Education Endorsement

Why earn a Director of Special Education Endorsement?

The Director of Special Education Endorsement courses prepare Illinois teachers and administrators for administrative roles in the special education field.

Why earn a Director of Special Education Endorsement at AU?

With Aurora University’s Director of Special Education Endorsement coursework, you’ll gain the necessary knowledge and skills to be an effective special education administrator. You’ll study real-world issues, discuss challenges, and identify solutions with classmates in similar positions. You’ll learn innovative ways to connect with those you lead.

Candidates who complete this coursework and meet all Illinois State Board of Education requirements are eligible to receive ISBE endorsement as a special education director.

Aurora University offers all four required Director of Special Education endorsement courses. Applicants who do not currently hold an administrative endorsement and a Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS 1) endorsement are encouraged to submit their transcripts to ISBE for review prior to enrolling in the Director of Special Education coursework.


Other Benefits
  • Small class sizes – Average class size is 15 students
  • Convenient classes – Fully remote format with courses that meet one night per week via Zoom
  • Fast time to completion – 4 courses (12 semester hours)

Curriculum Highlights
  • Evaluating and improving student support services
  • Interpreting and complying with Special Education laws and policies
  • Special Education program staffing, hiring, and evaluation
  • Including parents and community members as active participants
  • Supporting and mentoring school and district leaders
  • Understanding Special Education finance regulations and policies

Career opportunities

  • Assistant principal
  • Department chair
  • Human resources administrator
  • Principal

Get hired by the best

Our graduates have been hired in a variety of schools across the state of Illinois. These include public, private, parochial, and special education settings.