The history – teacher education major at Western Illinois University has a long tradition of cultivating academic excellence and preparing its students for career success and satisfaction. History – teacher education majors have acquired positions teaching history and a variety of social studies subjects in high schools throughout Illinois, as well as elsewhere in the nation. Many have gone on to positions of leadership in their districts as well, serving as principals and school administrators. Western Illinois University's state and nationally accredited history – teacher education program prepares students to teach all fields and periods of history, as well as other social studies courses as required by the state of Illinois. Courses in history, other social sciences and teaching methods, as well as field experiences teaching in the classroom, prepare students for their final semester as a full-time student teacher. Upon graduation, students are licensed to teach in high schools.