Education Alternative Licensure

Fast-Track Your Teaching Career with Saint Xavier University

Saint Xavier University's Education Division is proud to offer a newly approved 15-month Alternative Licensure program for individuals holding a bachelor's degree. This innovative program provides a fast-track route to obtaining an Illinois teaching license in the following content areas: Early Childhood, Elementary Education, Middle School, or Secondary Education. Join us and embark on a rewarding journey to become a transformative educator.

Format

Online

Program Length

PEL: 3 semesters (12 Months)
PEL and MAT: 4 Semesters (15 Months)

Credit Hours

PEL: 26 Credits Hours
PEL and MAT: 32 Credit Hours

Important Dates

Start Dates
April 7, 2025 (Apply by March 28)
May 12, 2025 (Apply by May 2)Online Info Sessions

Cost

Tuition Per Credit Hour: $575
Credit Hours to Complete: 26-32
Approximate Cost: $14,950-$18,400

Curriculum

Differs for each program

Course Descriptions

Why Earn your Alternative Licensure at SXU?

At Saint Xavier University, we are committed to excellence in education and student success. Our Alternative Licensure program is designed to support career changers with a comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and a supportive learning environment. By choosing Saint Xavier, you will benefit from personalized attention, practical experience, and a strong network of professional connections that will help you thrive in your new career.

In just three semesters, you can secure your Professional Educator License (PEL) and start making a difference in the classroom. By adding an additional summer semester, you can elevate your qualifications even further by earning a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). Learn from our distinguished educational faculty, gain invaluable hands-on classroom experience, and become a licensed educator in just over a year.

A group of students working on a laptop

About the Program

Saint Xavier University's 15-month Alternative Licensure program is tailored for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree and are seeking to transition into the teaching profession. The program offers four specialization majors: Early Childhood, Elementary Education, Middle School, and Secondary Education. Through a blend of online coursework and hands-on teaching with a year-long residency where you will be a teacher of record earning a salary and benefits, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become a licensed teacher in Illinois.

Alternative Licensure candidates have the opportunity to implement what they have learned from their coursework into their classrooms in real time since they are completing coursework and teachers of record concurrently.

Saint Xavier University's Alternative Licensure program incorporates high-impact practices to ensure your success as an educator. These include:

Residency: Engage in real-world teaching experiences through a year-long supervised residency where you will be the teacher of record in a real-world classroom, earning a salary and benefits.
Mentorship: Receive guidance and support from experienced educators who will mentor you throughout the program.
Collaborative Learning: Participate in collaborative projects and peer discussions to enhance your learning and professional growth.
Reflective Practice: Develop reflective practices to continuously improve your teaching strategies and effectiveness.

Graduates of the Alternative Licensure program will be able to:

Demonstrate a deep understanding of educational theories and practices.
Design and implement effective lesson plans that meet diverse student needs.
Utilize assessment data to inform instruction and improve student learning outcomes.
Create inclusive and supportive classroom environments.
Apply reflective practices to enhance professional growth and development.
Collaborate effectively with colleagues, parents, and the community to support student success.

Choosing Saint Xavier University means joining a community dedicated to your success. Our Alternative Licensure program offers:

Experienced Faculty: Learn from seasoned educators who bring real-world experience and expertise to the classroom.
Supportive Environment: Benefit from a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that fosters your growth and development.
Professional Network: Connect with a strong network of alumni and education professionals who can support your career advancement.
Flexible Learning: Enjoy the convenience of a program designed to accommodate your busy schedule with a blend of online courses and in-person learning experiences in your field and residency experiences.

We look forward to welcoming you to Saint Xavier University and supporting you on your journey to becoming a licensed teacher in Illinois.

Quick Links

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Graduate Admission

773-298-3053
Email: graduateadmissionFREESXU

Four Alternative Licensure Paths to Choose From

Early Childhood Education (Birth - Grade 2)

Teacher instructing elementary school students

Elementary Education (Grades 1 - 6)

Teacher assisting an individual student with schoolwork

Middle Level Education (Grades 5 - 8)

Teacher assisting high school student in the classroom

Secondary Education (Grades 9 - 12)

Alumni & Student Testimonials

"Saint Xavier University helped me complete my goals with their Alternative Licensure program. I was able to work toward getting both the degree and the teaching license but still work full-time during the day to support my family."
Tania Popp '24 | Current Student |Master of Arts in Teaching

"The program is more than just a degree; it gives me purpose."
Gryssel Montagner '24 | Current Student |MAT in Early Childhood Education

Meet the Faculty

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