Shape the Next Generation
For over 140 years, NLU has prepared the teachers, specialists, & leaders who transform lives. Whether you are becoming a teacher or advancing your career in education, there is a path built around your life here.
"I knew I wanted a career that would take me places, push me beyond my limits, and make a difference. I found that with teaching, and I found that at NLU."
Luis Bonilla, M.A.T. in Early Childhood Education, Class of 2015
Tell us about the students you want to reach. Take the first step by completing the form below.
Why study with us
As NLU's largest and oldest college, the National College of Education prepares aspiring teachers, practicing educators, and education leaders to make a difference in classrooms, schools, and communities. We blend cutting-edge theory with hands-on practice, connect you to real schools and districts, and surround you with advisors and success coaches, so you can build your credentials with confidence and on a schedule that fits your life. NLU graduates more early childhood educators and teachers than any other institution in Illinois.
Careers in this field
Swipe through where an education degree leads. See what the work feels like, then find the degree that gets you there.
Choose your level to see what it opens up and the programs that get you there. Each links to full details.
Build your foundation for people-centered careers and graduate study.
Specialize and qualify for licensure and advanced, higher-impact roles.
Deepen your expertise with focused specialization beyond the master's.
Lead, research, and practice at the highest level of the field.
Outcomes
Educators across every stage, from the first classroom to district leadership, and where their NLU degree took them.
Early Childhood Education
“As a single mother working full time, the competency-based program was such a lifesaver.”
A single mother who earned the ECACE scholarship and plans to open a home childcare for children with special needs.
M.A.T. Early Childhood Education
“I love putting what I am learning in class immediately in my classroom.”
Changed careers to teaching at 51 and applies her coursework in the classroom right away.
Ed.D. Educational Leadership
“My education at National Louis University has provided me with the knowledge to obtain this goal.”
A principal who turned an underperforming Florida middle school into a high-performing one.
Ph.D. Higher Education Leadership
“It is holistic and tailored support that has made me feel like I matter.”
A first-generation Latina doctoral fellow who turned mentorship into momentum.
MEd to EdD, Education
“I knew the opportunities NLU would provide for my growth as an educator.”
A middle-school science teacher who returned to NLU to advance into leadership.
Ed.D. Adult and Continuing Education
“Careful attention and concern were placed on the work-life balance with schedules at NLU.”
Spent 20 years in publishing and worked two jobs while earning her doctorate.
M.A. Education
“Your circumstances do not define you. Choose to remain hopeful.”
Rose from a New Orleans housing project to teacher, counselor, and published author.
MEd Curriculum and Instruction
“NLU has a strong reputation for producing highly qualified teaching professionals.”
Customizing his degree to serve ESL and disability-transition students.
M.S. Communication
“NLU helped me refine my natural teaching style and provided the language and diverse approaches needed for modern education.”
An experienced educator earning credit hours to teach at the university level.
Master of Arts in Teaching
“I love the fact that I'm fulfilled and walking in my purpose.”
Left a seven-year career, graduated with a 3.9 GPA, and now teaches at Disney Magnet School.
M.Ed. Educational Leadership
“Possibilities are endless. The hardest part of the journey is to start.”
Immigrated from Guyana and rose from classroom teacher toward school administration.
Ed.S. Curriculum and Instruction
“I would like to eventually use my degree to become a learning coach or classroom mentor.”
A teacher of record in her district who advocates for whole-child education.
ESL/Bilingual Endorsement
“I realized the importance of pursuing credentials to effectively teach students of immigrant background.”
A former ESL student herself, now a teacher earning credentials to serve immigrant students.
B.A. Elementary Education
“I've developed a profound appreciation for the relationships that come with being in the education field.”
An Elgin native student-teaching at Hillcrest Elementary in her home district.
In-classroom and online options, with two and three year programs you can fast-track or space out to fit your life.
Academic advisors, success coaches, and a community built to help educators thrive.
Partnerships with school districts and community organizations put you in real classrooms through observation, student teaching, and internships that can lead to a job.
Endorsements, approvals, and a name districts know, built on cutting-edge theory plus hands-on practice.
Florida
NLU's education graduate programs are offered through our Tampa campus and online. Choose Florida on the form above and an advisor will map your Florida options and start dates.
See your Florida optionsAvailable in Florida
Tell us about you, your goals, and the level of study you are interested in. It takes about a minute.
An NLU enrollment advisor reaches out to answer your questions and map a personalized plan for your education.
Submit your application with help from your advisor, choose an upcoming start date, and begin moving toward the career you want.
Classes for the next term begin in
Next start date: September 21, 2026
The practical details
NLU offers multiple start dates through the year, so you do not have to wait to begin. An advisor will help you pick the next start that fits your plans.
Tuition is built to be affordable, with financial aid, scholarships, and generous transfer credit that can lower both your cost and your time to finish.
Choose online, on-campus, or evening formats, learn in small classes, and work with an advisor and success coach from your first call through graduation.
Accreditation
No commitment required. An NLU advisor will reach out within one business day to answer your questions and guide your next move.
Take the First Step