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How many credits do I need?
For the MAT program: 48 semester hours, M.Ed. program: 44 sh, and C.A.S. program: 37 sh.

What is the grade level for LBS I certification?
Kindergarten though 12 LBS I.

How long will this take?
MAT: full-time – 6 Quarters, half-time 11 Quarters
M.Ed.: full-time – 6 Quarters, half-time 10/11 Quarters
C.A.S.: full-time – 6 Quarters, half-time 10/11 Quarters

What is the length of classes?
MAT, M.Ed. & C.A.S: typically 10 week terms, 3 credit classes are 11 weeks

Are preclinical hours needed?
MAT: 165 hours prior to student teaching.
M.Ed.: 120-135 hours prior to student teaching.
C.A.S.: 120 hours prior to student teaching.

What if I have any deficiencies?
None are allowed prior to student teaching for any program.

How do I make up deficiencies?
By taking classes locally that qualify.

Do I need to take the Basic Skills test?
For the MAT and M.Ed. program, the Basic skills test must be passed prior to being admitted.

What times are classes generally offered?
Full time clusters are offered 2 days per week from 9am-3:30.
Half time clusters are offered 2 days per week at 6pm – 9:00 or 9am-3:30 on Saturday.
Summer schedules may vary.

How long is student teaching in Illinois?
10-12 weeks for each program.

Are transfer credits allowed?
See an advisor for each specific case.

How many credits are needed for certification?
MAT: 48 semester hours
M.Ed.:    40 semester hours
C.A.S.: 37 semester hours

What areas of certification are offered in the Masters Special Ed Program?
Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS I)

As a student at large, how many semester hours can I take before being accepted into the program?
9 semester hours are allowed.

What other requirements are there regarding deficiencies?
For each program there are 2 credits required with a C or better in each of the following:
·    Communication Skills
·    Science
·    History
·    Social Science
·    Global/Multicultural Perspectives
·    Philosophy
·    Fine Arts
·    Literature
·    Math

Is there a minimum GPA required?
MAT: 3.0 and pass the Basic Skills test.
M.Ed. & C.A.S.: Look at the last 60 credit hours and courses takenas an undergrad that coincide with chosen content area and a minimum3.0 GPA.

Approximately how large are the classes usually?
18-22 students.

Can I use NLU courses that are a part of the program if I previously took and passed them?
Yes, they will be waived and the student does not have to attend those class sessions.

Who are the current Program Coordinators?
Howard Falk (x5624)
Donna Wakefield (4628)

If I need my transcript evaluated, whom do I contact?
Linda McDonough (x5729).

What is the Certification Test for Special Education?
Pass the LBS I test prior to student teaching and pass the APT test prior to certification.
For the C.A.S. program the APT test is NA if already LBS I certified.

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