FAQs

The Dominican University School of Education has a great deal to offer anyone who is interested in becoming a teacher or school administrator. To give you the most information about our programs as quickly as possible, we've prepared answers to the most frequently asked questions.


Graduate FAQs

Is there someone I can talk to about my credentials, your programs or any other information I may need?
Yes, you can call Keven Hansen, admissions coordinator, at (708) 524-6921 or email us at educate@dom.edu.

What are the requirements for acceptance into the School of Education graduate programs?
Acceptance requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with at least a 3.0  cumulative grade point average. Students may be conditionally accepted with a grade point average slightly lower than 3.0. Those seeking their first teaching certificate must also take and pass the Illinois Basic Skills test.

When can I start?
We have open admission, so you can begin in any term as soon as your application file is approved for acceptance.

How long does it take to finish the program?
The programs we offer vary in length. Certification for elementary or high school takes about two years; special education and early childhood can take a little longer.

Where do you offer classes?
Classes are offered at our main campus in River Forest as well as at our off-site location in Grayslake.

When are classes held?
Classes generally meet in the evening during the week, with 5:30 PM being the usual start time. Occasional Saturday classes are also available.

How much credit can be transferred into a program?
Up to six semester hours of graduate credit can be transferred prior to matriculation, assuming the coursework is comparable to that which would be covered in the Dominican program.

Can I get teaching certification without a master’s degree?
No, we no longer offer the Teaching Certification for College Graduates program.

Is financial aid available?
Yes. There are a limited number of scholarships and grants available through the School of Education. A student may apply for them after they are fully accepted and have registered for their first course. Federal Stafford loans are also available through the financial aid office.

Do I need any tests for certification?
There are differing State testing requirements for each School of Education program. Your program adviser will give you information on any State tests you need to take.

What do I need to complete my application file?
A complete application file to the School of Education consists of the application, $25.00 application fee, three letters of recommendation, and two official transcripts from each college or university attended. For those individuals seeking their first teaching certification a copy of test results showing a passing score on the Illinois Basic Skills test is also required.

What are the requirements for teaching certification?
Obtaining a teaching certificate requires successful completion of your program of study with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 along with passing scores on any required State tests. (icts.nesinc.com)
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Undergraduate FAQs

What teaching programs can I take at the undergraduate level?
We offer a degree in Early Childhood Education and elementary, secondary, and special K-12 certification programs.

Can I go immediately on to earn my Master’s degree?
Yes, we offer two combined programs that allow you to earn two degrees in six years or less. These include the BA/MS in Special Education and the BA/MS in Early Childhood Education. You can apply for these joint programs in your junior year.

What size are the typical undergraduate classes?
We work hard to provide an ideal learning environment for every class. With a student-faculty ratio of 12:1, you can be assured that you will be able to have quality time with all your instructors.

Where would I student teach?
We place our undergraduate student teachers in a wide variety of local area private, public and parochial schools.

Is financial aid available?
Yes. More than 90 percent of our freshmen receive some sort of financial aid from the wide variety of scholarships, grants and loans that are available. U.S. News & World Report consistently rates Dominican University a “Best Value” in recognition of our excellent academic programs provided at a moderate price.

Do you accept transfer students?
Dominican University School of Education welcomes many transfer students each year. Our transfer admission staff is dedicated to making the process easy for you. If you are a Chicago area community college student, you will find a detailed transfer guide at http://www.dom.edu/ican/apply/transfer.html.

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