Become a Teacher in One Year
Transition to a new career through a proven hands-on training model that makes becoming a teacher possible.
The Lake County Teacher Residency™
The Lake County Teacher Residency is a one-year teacher preparation program for career changers with a bachelor’s degree from all backgrounds.
Residents receive a scholarship to obtain a master’s degree from DePaul University (with classes at the University Center of Lake County) and obtain in-classroom experience with guidance from expert coaches and mentors. Graduates of the program make an immediate impact as full-time special education teachers, transforming lives in Zion, Round Lake, and Waukegan public schools.
Mentored
The residency is a supportive program that develops highly effective teachers through master’s level coursework partnered with mentorship from expert coaches and mentors.
Equipped
By combining theory and practice, participants receive the tools they need to become successful special education teachers in Lake County Public Schools.
Placed
Upon completion of the one-year program, individuals are fully licensed to teach in Illinois and are prepared to be placed in a full-time special education teaching position in Lake County Public Schools.
Why Join the Lake County Teacher Residency?
One-Year Master's Degree
Earn a master’s degree from DePaul University in just one year at a reduced tuition cost (with classes held at the University Center of Lake County)
One-On-One Coaching
Receive personalized feedback and support from an experienced mentor teacher and expert resident coach for your entire training year.
In-Class Experience
Gain over 1000 hours of classroom experience learning alongside a supportive mentor teacher for a full school year.
Financial Support
Receive access to a training scholarship and apply for additional partner funded grants to help cover resident expenses throughout the program.
Job Ready
Upon successful completion of the residency program, all Residents are qualified for a full-time special education teaching position within a Lake County public school.
Proven Cohort Model
Learn and grow with a cohort of future teachers within a model that’s been successfully graduating highly effective teachers since 2001.
Schools We Partner With
Explore the district partners where Lake County residents train and launch their teaching careers. Interested in teaching in Chicago & surrounding areas?
Visit the Chicago Teacher Residency page →
Lake County | Lake County Teacher Residency™
Round Lake Round Lake Area Schools (Lake County)
Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 (Lake County)
Zion Elementary School District 6 (Lake County)
Tuition & Financial Aid
As a Resident, you will enroll at DePaul University at a reduced tuition rate.
Tuition
As a Resident, you will be enrolled at DePaul University receiving a reduced tuition rate of approximately $20,400.*
*Tuition subject to increase based on DePaul University’s yearly tuition rate changes. Talk to your recruiter to learn more.
Financial Aid
All Residents receive access up to $30,000+ in financial assistance opportunities, including at least a $22,100 training scholarship paid directly to you to fund your program year.
The Application Process
1) Submit your Application
Complete the online application and upload your unofficial college transcripts, current resume, and essay responses. Our team will review your materials to confirm program and subject-area eligibility.
2) Virtual interview
Eligible candidates will be invited to a 30-minute virtual interview with an AUSL Admissions team member.
3) AUSL Selection & DePaul Recommendation
Following a successful interview, selected candidates will receive official notification to begin their application to our university partner, DePaul University’s Graduate School of Education.
4) Apply to DePaul University
Complete the DePaul application by submitting the following:
- Official Transcripts: From every institution attended (electronic or sealed physical copies).
- Recommendations: Two (2) professional or academic letters.
- Personal Statement: Outlining your goals and interests.
- Writing Sample: Required only for Special Education applicants.
(Detailed instructions will be sent directly by DePaul.)
5: Receive Your Offer & Next Steps
Once admitted by DePaul and approved for final selection by AUSL, you’ll receive your formal Residency offer. Your AUSL recruiter and DePaul admissions staff will guide you through pre-program requirements.
Start Your Application
Create an account to get started on earning your Masters and becoming a teacher.
Request More Information
Ask questions, request specific information, or schedule time to talk with a recruiter.