Education
Why study Education at AU?
Aurora University has been preparing teachers to make an impact on their individual students, their classrooms, and their communities since 1930. Thousands of AU graduates in Illinois and across the country are employed as successful teachers, making a difference in the lives of children and their families.
AU’s approach to teacher education combines a strong academic core with experiences in professional learning communities. AU collaborates with schools in the Fox Valley region so that students have the opportunity early in their academic journey to take part in classrooms, observing and working alongside experienced teachers and interacting with students. This approach builds confidence in students so they are well-prepared when it comes time to student teach.
Scholarships
Educators Rising: AU is proud to partner with Educators Rising, a national organization that promotes teaching as a career path. Through Educators Rising, AU offers a $1,000 renewable scholarship to students from area high schools and community colleges who are active members of affiliate clubs and stay active members in the AU chapter while at AU.
Noyce Scholars: AU is a recipient of a National Science Foundation Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program grant designed to help address the nationwide shortage of high-quality teachers in science, technology, engineering, and math, particularly among groups underrepresented in STEM fields. The program, known as Noyce Scholars, is open to select Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics majors entering their junior year at AU. Noyce Scholars will receive an annual undergraduate scholarship of up to $18,000 for the last two years of their secondary education program.
Our Teaching Degree Programs
Learn more about teacher preparation programs from Aurora University:
Elementary Education
Physical Education K-12 Teaching Licensure
School Health Education Minor
Secondary Education (supplemental major)
Special Education with ESL/Bilingual
Endorsements
An endorsement on a teaching license means you have additional qualifications to teach specific grade levels or subject areas. AU offers endorsements to all education majors, making students eligible for additional teaching opportunities. These include:
- Early Childhood Education Endorsement
- Elementary Education Endorsement
- English/Language Arts Middle School Endorsement
- ESL/Bilingual Education Endorsement
- Math Middle School Endorsement
- Science Middle School Endorsement
- Social Science Middle School Endorsement
- Spanish Endorsement
- Special Education Endorsement
Accreditation
Aurora University’s Education programs are accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education and prepare students to become licensed teachers in the state of Illinois. AU prepares students to complete the Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA), a state certification requirement.
Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.Nelson Mandela
Spartan Story: Jason Morales '21 was inspired to become an education major after a teacher changed his life by helping him learn English. He wants to have the same impact on other children's lives.