Alternative Licensure Program/Education Programs (PEL)

2023 License Renewal ELIS How To... Administrators Alternative Licensure Program/Education Programs (PEL) (CTE) Career & Technical Educators Out of State/Country Applicants Retired Teachers Paraprofessional License Information (PARA) Professional Educator License (PEL) Substitute Teaching (SUB & STS)

PEL - Alternative Licensure/Education Programs

Alternative (non-traditional) teacher licensure is an option for those who have not completed traditional teacher preparation programs but have an interest in changing careers and becoming teachers. If you hold at least a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and wish to pursue a teaching license, alternative licensure may be the right fit for you.

Courses leading to endorsements are offered in many universities throughout the country. Whether you are entering a program or just taking required coursework for subsequent teaching endorsements for your current PEL, please consult with an academic advisor in the education department of the institution to ensure the coursework meets the requirements of ISBE.

ISBE Alternative Programs webpage

ROE # 17's Spotlight on Alternative Licensure Programs

University of Phoenix Alternative Route to Licensure

EIU Accelerated Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Licensure Program

Directory of Approved Programs - ISBE

Pre-Approved Coursework - IL Universities

Pre-Approved Coursework - Out-of-State Universities

The Golden Apple Accelerators Program

American College of Education - Information

American College of Education - Online Certificate, Principal Preparation

American College of Education - Online Master's Degree, Elementary Teaching

American College of Education - Online Certificate Program, Transition to Teaching in Elementary Education

American College of Education - Online Bachelor's Degree, Education Studies