Program Overview

Master of Education - English Language Learning

About

The M.Ed. in English Language Learning (ELL) is designed to provide comprehensive educator preparation for individuals with baccalaureate degrees interested in working with dual language learners (DLLs) or English language learners (ELLs) in various contexts (PreK-12; English as a Second Language with adult learners; English as a Foreign Language internationally). The M.Ed. in ELL includes coursework required for endorsements to teach ELLs in PK-12 settings. The program includes an English Language Learning or Bilingual Education track to allow students to narrow their focus of study.

Available Options

• English Language Learning Track The M.Ed. in - English Language Learning program is designed for individuals with baccalaureate degrees who are interested in working with English language learners in various contexts (P-12; ESL with adult learners; EFL internationally).
• Bilingual Education Track

Accreditation

For information regarding accreditation at UNLV, please head over to Academic Program Accreditations.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program:

• Scholars will (SW) demonstrate understanding of language as a system (phonology, morphology, syntax, pragmatics, semantics) and develop learning experiences that support ELLs language and literacy development in all content areas (Language).
• SW construct supportive learning environments for ELLs through application of major theories and research related to the role of culture in learning and language acquisition (Culture).
• SW plan, implement, and manage high quality standards-based ESL and content instruction integrating evidence-based practices and technology to simultaneously develop content and language skills (Planning, Implementing, and Managing Instruction).
• SW demonstrate understanding in the selection, use and interpretation of cognitive, academic, and linguistic assessments for ELLs (Assessment).
• SW utilize historical perspectives, current policy, and advances in the research field to improve instructional practices and advocacy in the field of ELL education (Professionalism).

Career Possibilities

• PK-12 curriculum coordinator; instructional coach (if licensed)
• Community college instructor
• Higher education staff
• Community-based organizations
• English as a second/foreign language instructor abroad or in the corporate world

Requirements

Plan Description

The M.Ed. English Language Learning program is designed for individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree in elementary, secondary, or special education and seek to earn a master's degree in English Language Learning, with a focus in either English Language Learning or Bilingual Education. Admitted students are required to develop a plan of study relevant to their focus area of study.

Plan Admission Requirements

• Application deadlines: Applications available on the UNLV Graduate College website.
• Admission to the Master's degree program in English Language Learning requires a minimum grade point average of 2.75 for all undergraduate work or a 3.00 for the last two years of undergraduate work. All applicants are evaluated on their scholastic record, professional accomplishments, and potential for advanced studies.
• Required documents:
  • Completed admission application and fee
  • Set of official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities
  • A one-page (350 to 400 words) letter of intent should include (1) the English Language Learning or Bilingual Education focus area of interest, (2) professional and academic goals, and (3) discussion of experiences relative to the focus area of study.

Plan Requirements

• See Subplan Requirements below.

Subplan 1 Requirements: English Language Learning

• Total Credits Required: 36
• Course Requirements:
  • Required Courses - Credits: 6
    • EPY 702 - Research Methods
    • ESP 722 - Multicultural Perspectives in Special Education
  • English Language Learning Courses - Credits: 24
    • Complete 24 credits by completing all of the courses below:
      • TESL 750 - TESL Linguistic Theory
      • TESL 751 - Theory and Practice for Academic English Language Development
      • TESL 752 - Methods and Curriculum for Teaching ELs
      • TESL 754 - Assessment and Evaluation of ELs
      • TESL 755 - Language Acquisition and Development
      • TESL 757 - Policies, Critical Issues, and Best Practices for Pre-K, Elementary, and Secondary ELs Practicum
      • TESL 758 - Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CLD) Program Leadership
      • TESL 759 - Policies, Critical Issues, and Best Practices for Pre-K, Elementary, and Secondary ELs Seminar
      • TESL 760 - Foundations in Education in Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CLD)
  • Elective Course - Credits: 6
    • Complete 6 credits of advisor-approved courses.

Subplan 2 Requirements: Bilingual Education

• Total Credits Required: 36
• Course Requirements:
  • Required Courses - Credits: 6
    • EPY 702 - Research Methods
    • ESP 722 - Multicultural Perspectives in Special Education
  • English Language Learning Courses - 24
    • Complete 24 credits of the courses below:
      • TESL 750 - TESL Linguistic Theory
      • TESL 751 - Theory and Practice for Academic English Language Development
      • TESL 752 - Methods and Curriculum for Teaching ELs
      • TESL 755 - Language Acquisition and Development
      • TESL 757 - Policies, Critical Issues, and Best Practices for Pre-K, Elementary, and Secondary ELs Practicum
      • TESL 758 - Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CLD) Program Leadership
      • TESL 759 - Policies, Critical Issues, and Best Practices for Pre-K, Elementary, and Secondary ELs Seminar
      • TESL 760 - Foundations in Education in Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CLD)
      • TESL 761 - Literacy Development in the Bilingual Classroom
      • TESL 764 - Assessment Bilingual Classroom
      • TESL 765 - Curriculum Development Bilingual Classroom
  • Elective Course - Credits: 6
    • Complete 6 credits of advisor-approved courses.

Degree Requirements

• The master's degree program requires a minimum of 36 credits of approved studies and an overall cumulative GPA of 3.00 in all courses counted toward the degree. Six of these credits are in research (3) and multicultural perspectives (3).
• All graduate students are held responsible for the requirements and academic policies established by the Graduate College and outlined in the front of the graduate catalog. In addition, the Department of Early Childhood, Multilingual, & Special Education has established requirements. While these requirements may be obtained from an academic advisor, they are briefly outlined here.
• Master's degrees must be completed within a six-year period, and continuous enrollment must be maintained throughout the six years, unless a formal request for a leave of absence is approved by the department and Graduate College.
• The M.Ed. degree requires students to complete a minimum of 24 credits within the English Language Learning core, EPY 702, ESP 722, and 6 credits of elective courses.
• Students will be required to complete an electronic portfolio (e-portfolio) related to the focus area's professional standard. The e-portfolio must contain the primary assignments and grading rubrics from all courses on the student's program of study. It is each students' responsibility to collect and retain the assignments and graded rubrics at the end of each semester. Students must earn a "B" or better on the primary assignment in order for it to be included in the e-portfolio.
• The e-portfolio must be completed and turned in for evaluation by each student to the academic advisor during the student's last semester of coursework or in the semester immediately following the student's last semester of required coursework.
• The e-portfolio will be evaluated across six academic standards and 4 performance levels:
  • Academic Standards:
    • Theory into Practice
    • Professional Philosophy
    • Conduct and/or Evaluate Research
    • Content and Pedagogical Knowledge
    • Professional Standard Knowledge
    • Presentation and Format
  • Performance Levels: (with corresponding rubrics)
    • Distinguished (3)
    • Proficient (2)
    • Marginal (1)
    • Unacceptable (0)

Graduation Requirements

• The student must successfully complete and submit an e-portfolio.
• Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.

Contacts

Graduate Coordinator

• Jenna Weglarz-Ward, Ph.D.
• Heather Van Ness, Ph.D.
• Alain Bengochea, Ph.D.

Department of Early Childhood, Multilingual, and Special Education

• We are dedicated to preparing professionals for specialized services in schools, community agencies, and higher education settings. In our bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs as well as two dual Ph.D./J.D. degrees and graduate certificates, we promote cultural diversity and affirm our commitment to the ethical standards of our respective disciplines.

College of Education

• The College of Education creates an intellectual environment that promotes quality instruction, significant research, and professional service. With four unique departments, graduates receive the necessary tools and experiences to make an impact on local, national, and global scales.