We seek to support the expanded work of the Bureau. The College's undergraduate and graduate programs are closely intertwined with and heavily influenced by our research emphasis. In fact, in terms of our teacher education program, we believe this distinguishes us from other teacher education programs in the state and across the nation. These programs, two of many developed and empirically tested in our College, serve as exemplars of innovative teacher education and are widely copied by other institutions. Because of their research-based and highly relevant preparation, our graduates are sought after by school districts in Illinois and beyond.
Anecdotal information indicates that they often assume leadership roles in their districts.
Because of the research presence of the College faculty, the College of Education recruits some of the best graduate students in the world. Doctoral students begin working closely with faculty on research projects during their first year of study and continue to conduct research, present and publish throughout their graduate program. Because of their research focused preparation, our graduates are heavily represented among the faculties of peer US institutions including University of Wisconsin, University of Michigan, Michigan State University, University of Maryland, UCLA, and Stanford, as well as leading universities across the world. The College also offers part-time graduate instruction to practicing educators in schools, community colleges, and industry. Through a combination of on campus, extra-mural and distance education, we serve the professional development needs of current and future educational leaders in our state and establish important linkages among them with the College and University as a hub.