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Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS I) Endorsement

Teachers who have an Illinois Professional Educator License endorsed for early childhood education, elementary education, middle grades, or secondary education may add a subsequent teaching endorsement in LBS1 and will be able to teach special education in grades K-22.

In addition to the National Louis University Graduate Admission Requirements, applicants must:

  • Hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) endorsed in the teaching field (teaching endorsements can’t be added to administrative and school support PEL’s)

Endorsement Details: 

  • Requires 15 SH for completion
  • A grade of “C” or better in all coursework is required
  • Requires passing of the LBS1 content test (#290) 
  • Requires completion of SPE 500 or its equivalent
    • Note: SPE 500 may be waived by an Academic Advisor if the candidate holds an IL PEL and/or provide transcripted evidence of successful completion ("C" or better) of an equivalent course. 
  • Credit for Prior Learning may be accepted for SPE 506, SPE 508 or SPE 509
  • Candidates may be eligible for financial aid. Contact the Financial Aid office for more information.

Required Courses

SPE 501Educational and Diagnostic Assessment in Special Education

3
SPE 506Frameworks, Perspectives, and Collaboration in Special Education

3
SPE 527Curriculum Adaptations in the Least Restrictive Environment

3
and
SPE 509Methods of Instruction in Foundational Literacy for Diverse Learners

3
or
SPE 508Methods of Instruction: Literacy Across the Curriculum for Special Education

3
and
SPE 507Methods of Social/Emotional Support

3
Note: SPE 509 is recommended for candidates with a Middle or High School PEL. SPE 508 is recommended for candidates with an Elementary or Early Childhood PEL. It is recommended that candidates complete the literacy course in the grade range not covered by the initial PEL. 

Upon completion of all endorsement requirements, candidates may apply for state endorsement in LBS1 though NLU's entitlement process.

Visit ISBE website for additional information https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Special-Education-Requirements.aspx