Focus on High-Quality Academic Preparation
Northwestern University's School of Education and Social Policy is the only School of Education and Social Policy in the nation, and is ranked seventh of all graduate schools of education nationwide by
U.S. News and World Report. The School of Education and Social Policy's teacher preparation programs were ranked highest of all teacher preparation programs in Illinois by the National Council on Teacher Quality in 2010.
Reflection and Inquiry
Our students learn to become truly reflective educators who are able to continuously assess and improve their own professional practice. Our
master's research project trains students as action researchers who can systematically study and solve problems they encounter in their classrooms.
Emphasis on the Social Contexts of Education
What students learn is tied to the social context in which they learn. In order to be effective and ethical educators, students must examine the roles of public and private schools in the larger social context. Therefore, in addition to instruction in teaching methodology, our students receive instruction in the social contexts of education and have field experiences in both urban and suburban schools.
Collaborative Environment Enhances Student Learning
We believe that learning is a social practice. Our program recruits a diverse group of the best and brightest students, and we conduct our courses in a collaborative environment that helps our students best take advantage of the knowledge, insights and experiences of their peers.
Connecting Theory to Practice
Our students learn how theories suggest questions and ideas about practice, as well as how practice (partnered with inquiry and reflection) suggests modifications to theory. Our faculty is comprised of teachers with decades of experience, as well as researchers engaged in improving teaching and learning. These experienced educators aid students in integrating theory with professional practice and building their own philosophy of teaching.
Flexible Scheduling
Our program's flexible scheduling allows NU-TEACH completers to finish the degree in as little as one calendar year. Our core courses are scheduled in the evenings and meet just once per week to accommodate working students. Students may begin the program in any academic quarter.
