Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement)
Hours: 30 Online
About
The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) (ESOL) at Fort Hays State University equips students with the latest academic theories and practical knowledge to meet the diverse needs of K-12 multilingual learners. The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program is online and asynchronous, allowing you to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments.
The program's structure includes 8-week and 16-week sessions and minimal textbook costs, ensuring affordability and flexibility. The curriculum includes ESOL-specific courses in methods and materials, assessment and appraisal, linguistics, and a practicum. In addition, students study cultural diversity, innovative technology integration, educational research, educational leadership, data analysis and assessment, instructional design and assessment, and literacy development.
Why pursue a Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) at Fort Hays State University?
Instructors design our Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) program with flexibility in mind, featuring entirely online and asynchronous courses. This format allows you to balance your studies with professional and personal responsibilities, making it accessible for educators at all stages of their careers. Additionally, the program is coordinated by instructors with extensive experience in preK-12 ESOL teaching, ensuring that you gain insights from seasoned professionals who understand the practical challenges you will face.
FHSU's commitment to affordability and quality is evident through open educational resources (OER), eliminating the need for costly textbooks while providing up-to-date materials. The curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the latest research and trends in ESOL education, ensuring that you are well-prepared to meet the needs of your students. Moreover, the program's structure, which includes 8-week sessions as well as traditional 16-week courses, allows for an accelerated path to completing your degree, helping you advance your career more quickly.
Who is this program for?
The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) (ESOL) program is for educators and professionals passionate about supporting multilingual learners. It is ideal for:
- Educators looking to enhance their skills in teaching English to multilingual students
- Educators seeking to add an ESOL endorsement to their teaching license
- Educators seeking a path to working in higher education
- Individuals aiming to work in diverse educational settings
- Professionals interested in addressing the needs of English Language Learners
- Teachers looking to implement the latest research-based strategies in their classrooms
- Administrators and curriculum developers focused on ESOL education
- International educators seeking to improve their ESOL teaching practices
Learning Outcomes
The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) program at Fort Hays State University aims to produce well-equipped graduates to meet the diverse needs of English Language Learners (ELLs). The learning outcomes ensure you develop a deep understanding of ESOL theory and practical teaching skills.
Develop Cultural Competence
Gain an in-depth understanding of cultural diversity and its impact on language learning to create inclusive classroom environments that respect and leverage students' cultural backgrounds.
Implement Effective Teaching Strategies
Explore various methods and materials tailored for ESOL instruction to design and implement instructional programs that effectively address the unique needs of ELLs using evidence-based strategies and resources.
Conduct Comprehensive Assessments
Learn to assess and appraise ELLs' language development and academic progress using various evaluation techniques to measure student progress and adapt your teaching strategies accordingly and accurately.
Design and Execute Research Projects
Complete a practicum involving an action research project that integrates all aspects of the program to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, demonstrating your ability to conduct research and implement findings in your teaching practice.
Real-World Applications
Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical assignments, you will develop a comprehensive toolkit of resources and strategies that you can immediately apply in your classroom. Methods and materials and assessment and appraisal courses equip you with the skills to effectively teach and assess English Language Learners (ELLs).
In addition to coursework, the program prepares you to pass the Praxis 5362 English to Speakers of Other Languages exam, a requirement for ESOL endorsement in Kansas. This endorsement enhances your credentials and makes you a more attractive candidate for school districts.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers in Other Languages Endorsement) (ESOL) program equips students with cutting-edge knowledge and techniques by leveraging current research and best practices. For instance, the curriculum emphasizes "translanguaging," encouraging students to use their native languages as a scaffold for learning English and other academic content, a practice supported by recent educational research.
Furthermore, using open educational resources (OER) ensures that the program materials are continuously updated, providing you with the most relevant and practical tools for your teaching practice. This approach keeps the curriculum fresh and innovative and prepares you to adapt to future changes in the educational landscape.
Practical Activities
Each course includes assignments and projects that require you to apply what you have learned to real-world scenarios. The program culminates in a practicum, where you will conduct an action research project that integrates all aspects of your coursework. By the end of the program, you will have developed the skills and confidence needed to implement effective ESOL strategies in your classroom.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understanding cultural diversity
- Methods and materials for ESOL
- Assessment and appraisal techniques
- Specialized knowledge of linguistics as applied to English language learners
- Comprehensive practicum experience
- Preparation for the Praxis 5362 exam
How You’ll Learn:
- Entirely online and asynchronous
- 8-week and 16-week course sessions
- Apply knowledge to real experiences
- Practical assignments for resource gathering
- Continuous updates with OER materials
The core curriculum of the Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) program at Fort Hays State University covers a broad range of topics essential for effective ESOL instruction. Courses such as cultural diversity, methods and materials, assessment and appraisal, and linguistics provide a solid foundation in understanding the unique challenges and needs of English Language Learners (ELLs).
In addition to these core courses, the program includes a practicum that synthesizes all learned concepts into a comprehensive action research project. This practical component, which requires 50 hours of work in K-12 classrooms, ensures that you can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world teaching scenarios, enhancing your ability to address the diverse needs of your students. Here are highlights of some of the courses in the program.
AEP 800: Innovative Technology Integration
This course helps aspiring educational leaders develop skills in using free web-based digital materials in various settings. Students will engage with project-based learning through andragogy principles, creating customizable projects that incorporate relevant research and best practices for immediate classroom or workplace integration.
AEP 858: Data Analysis and Assessment
This course helps prospective educational leaders develop fundamental knowledge and skills in data-driven decision-making for effective building leadership. Students will explore various assessments and learn how to interpret, evaluate, and use results for school-wide improvement.Top of FormBottom of Form
READ 884: Literacy Development
This course examines language and literacy development from a psycholinguistic perspective, focusing on the science of how students learn language. It emphasizes classroom techniques to foster emergent literacy development.
Discover the full Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) at Fort Hays State University prepares you to impact the lives of multilingual learners significantly and opens numerous professional opportunities. The program ensures you are ready to excel in various professional settings and roles by comprehensively understanding ESOL theory and practical teaching strategies.
ESOL Teacher
Your primary goal will be to help students develop their English language skills and succeed academically. You will use various teaching methods and materials tailored to meet your students' diverse needs, assess their progress, and adapt your strategies to provide the necessary support.
Curriculum Specialist
You will work closely with teachers and administrators to create instructional programs that are both effective and culturally responsive. Your expertise will help design curricula that enhance learning experiences for English Language Learners and meet educational standards.
Language Program Coordinator
You will manage program implementation, train teachers, and ensure the programs meet student needs. Your leadership will be vital in creating a supportive learning environment and promoting best practices in language education.
Educational Consultant
You will provide professional development, conduct program evaluations, and recommend improvements to ESOL programs. Your expertise will help schools implement effective strategies and improve outcomes for English Language Learners.
ESOL Trainer
You will design and deliver workshops, seminars, and training sessions focused on the latest research and best practices. Your work will directly impact English Language Learners' education quality by empowering teachers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.
To be considered for the Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) at Fort Hays State University, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:
Academic Achievement
Students are required to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework. The admissions board will consider applicants with lower GPAs on a case-by-case basis, particularly if they have relevant professional experience.
Professional Experience
While not mandatory, professional experience in teaching or a related field is highly beneficial.
Statement of Purpose
A written statement (1-2 pages) outlining your professional goals, reasons for pursuing the Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement), and how the program aligns with your career aspirations. The statement should highlight specific experiences that have prepared you for graduate study in ESOL.
Letters of Recommendation
Students must submit two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to their academic and professional abilities. Ideally, one letter should come from a former professor or academic advisor and the other from an experienced mentor or supervisor.
Transcripts
Students must submit all official transcripts from previously attended institutions. These transcripts provide a comprehensive record of your academic history and are used to evaluate your readiness for graduate-level coursework.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,047.58* (Online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online undergraduate tuition rate ($338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
In addition to the Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement), Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that may interest you:
- BSE in Elementary Education
- M.S. in Special Education
- M.S. in Educational Administration
- Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Education Administration)
- Certificate in Science of Language and Literacy (non-degree)
- B.A. in Modern Languages (Spanish and Teacher Education)
- M.A. in English
People use terms like ESL, ESOL, ELL, EL, and multilingual learners interchangeably. These terms reflect the diverse ways in which English language education is approached and understood. Similarly, students who are learning English are sometimes referred to as English learners (ELs), Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD), multilingual learners, and Multilingual Language Learners (MLLs), which is the most current term.
Yes, passing the Praxis 5362 exam is a state requirement to add the ESOL endorsement to a Kansas teaching license. However, each state has specific requirements for licensure.
Students may transfer courses from other accredited institutions into the program upon review.
Instructors designed the Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) to accommodate educators from various states and countries and provide universal teaching strategies.
No, this program is tailored for those who already have advanced English proficiency, as it focuses on improving teaching expertise rather than increasing participants’ English proficiency.
Department Information
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.
- CAEP Accreditation: The Department of Advanced Education Programs at FHSU holds Advanced-Level-Accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This applies to post-baccalaureate or graduate programs that lead to license, certification, or endorsement for P-12 teachers, administrators, and certified school professionals. Note that the non-licensure programs, content-specific programs, and non P-12 educational leadership programs are not covered.
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