The PULSE program is designed for special education paraprofessionals with at least 2 years of classroom experience seeking to earn their bachelor’s degree in special education and their Professional Educator’s License (PEL) with a Learning Behavioral Specialist 1 (LBS 1) endorsement. This program is fully online and is designed to specifically meet the educational needs of adult learners and capitalize on your experiences as working paraprofessionals. Keep your job, your pay, and your benefits all while completing the program!
PULSE: Paraprofessionals Unlocking Licensure in Special Education
Contact Us
To learn more about PULSE, register for a virtual information session
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Features & Highlights
- 100% online, cohort-based, 2-year program
- Course content designed specifically to help you transition from a paraprofessional to a fully licensed special education teacher
- Continue working while earning your degree, even during student teaching
- 97% of PULSE graduates are hired as licensed special education teachers
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance is available, including limited scholarships and grants that cover the full cost of attendance. The first step in determining eligibility is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Eligibility
Candidates need the following to be considered for the PULSE program:
- Associate's degree (Associate of Arts) or 60+ hours with IAI Requirements or General Education requirements completed or Bachelor's Degree
- Courses
- PSY 110-General Psychology
- SED 101-Intro to Special Education
- AMALI Graduation Requirement
- At least 2 years of experience working as a paraprofessional in a special education setting
- Complete PULSE Employer Acknowledgement Form; this form must be completed by an administrator in your district/cooperative
Why Pulse?
As working paraprofessionals just like you, our PULSE students share their transformative experiences. Hear firsthand accounts of how PULSE allows students to balance work, school, and personal lives while advancing their careers. Don’t miss their encouraging testimonials telling why you should go for it!
Learn more about the impact of our PULSE program from current students in this video!
Application Process
- To initiate the admission process, submit the pre-application form. This is not an official application, but rather a way to express interest in finding out more details about the program.
- Submit unofficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions of higher education in the pre-application form.
- All PULSE candidates must receive support from their school district/cooperative to be considered for admission to the program. Provide the contact information of your district/cooperative administrator in the pre-application form.
- Based on this information, our academic advisors will review your work experience and educational history to determine eligibility.
- Following review of your completed pre-application form, an advisor will communicate with you directly. You will be given further instructions to complete your official application for admission to Illinois State University.