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Curriculum and Instruction: Literacy and English Language Learning, M.Ed.

ÐÔÊÓ½ç’s graduate program in Literacy and English Language Learning stands out for its unique combination of national recognition, practical education, and career- focused credentials. From dual endorsements to curriculum aligned with professional standards, the program is designed to elevate your expertise and expand your opportunities in literacy and ELL education.

• Dual Endorsement Advantage – ÐÔÊÓ½ç is the only institution in the Chicagoland area offering dual endorsements in both Reading Teacher and English as a Second Language (ESL) in one graduate program, enhancing educators’ qualifications and career opportunities.
  
  
• International Literacy Association (ILA) Recognition – The program has been recognized by the International Literacy Association, ensuring graduates meet high professional standards in literacy education and stand out as highly qualified literacy specialists.
  
  
• Comprehensive, Practical Curriculum – The coursework is aligned with the standards of the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and the International Literacy Association (ILA), integrating real-world field experiences and clinical hours to prepare educators for immediate impact in diverse classrooms.

With these distinct advantages, ÐÔÊÓ½ç equips educators with the credentials, experience, and recognition needed to impact today’s diverse learning environments.

Dual Endorsements in Literacy and ESL - A Unique Graduate Program

Oftentimes, students’ strengths and needs in literacy and second language learning are intertwined, and teachers are challenged with the task of determining whether the student is struggling with reading or language – or both. ÐÔÊÓ½ç offers dual endorsements in Reading Teacher and English as a Second Language (ESL) in one graduate program.
During their coursework, candidates will learn how to teach culturally and linguistically diverse populations, strategic comprehension instruction, and methods for teaching English as a new language. Upon graduation, candidates will be able to add these endorsements to their existing teaching license. The Reading Teacher and ESL endorsements are available to Illinois teachers who are licensed to teach as Elementary, Early Childhood, Special Education or Secondary Education teachers. The endorsements are valid for grades Pre-K through 12.

Reading Specialist Completion or Bilingual Endorsement Option

Candidates may complete the requirements for Reading Specialist credentials or a Bilingual endorsement in addition to the coursework required for the Master’s degree.

The Literacy and English Language Learning graduate program is recognized by the International Literacy Association (ILA) and by the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This graduate program is fully approved by the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board and the Illinois State Board of Education.

Scholarship Options

Financing your graduate education doesn’t have to be a barrier. ÐÔÊÓ½ç offers a range of scholarship opportunities designed specifically for educators pursuing a master’s degree in literacy, ESL, or bilingual education.

• Dr. Martha H. Rusnak Scholarship for Reading Professionals
• TEACH Grant
• Lasallian Book Scholarship

Visit the Financial Aid for Educational Studies page for more information on education scholarships.

Sample Courses:

Explore courses that build expertise in teaching literacy, English Language Learning, and culturally responsive education.

• Linguistics for Teachers of English Language Learners
• Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment for School Improvement
• Assessment of Literacy and English Language Learning
• Child and Adolescent Literature
• Theory and Practice for Intervention and Remediation of Reading
• Foundations and Methods of Teaching Developmental Reading and Early Literacy

What are my Career Options with a Literacy and English Language Learning, M.Ed.?

A graduate degree with dual endorsements in Reading and ESL opens the door to many impactful roles in education.

• ESL Teacher - Supports non-native English speakers in developing language skills for academic success across grade levels. 
  
  
• Reading Teacher - Provides targeted reading instruction to improve student literacy and comprehension in elementary through high school settings.
  
  
• Literacy Specialist - Collaborates with teachers and administrators to design and implement school-wide literacy programs and interventions.
  
  
• Bilingual Educator - Teaches academic content in both English and a second language, helping multilingual students access the curriculum effectively.
  
  
• Instructional Coach - Mentors teachers by providing strategies to enhance reading and language instruction in diverse classrooms.
  
  
• Curriculum Developer - Designs reading and ESL curriculum that aligns with educational standards and supports culturally responsive learning.

Admission Requirements

• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
• A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher
education with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 for the final 60 credit hours of study
• Official college transcripts from all institutions previously attended
• Successful completion of the ÐÔÊÓ½ç College of Education and Social Sciences Graduate Writing Examination
• Submission of a graduate application form.
• Two letters of recommendation

Please refer to the Office of Graduate Admission for application requirements and specific next steps.

VIEW THE PROGRAM CURRICULUM

Related Programs

• Reading & Literacy, Reading Specialist, M.A.
• Curriculum and Instruction: Reading Teacher Endorsement, M.Ed.
• Curriculum and Instruction: English as a Second Language (ESL), M.Ed.

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