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 prepares educators with cutting-edge academic theory and practical strategies to support the diverse needs of K–12 multilingual learners. Offered fully online and asynchronously, the program allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities.
The program offers both 8-week and 16-week sessions, along with minimal textbook costs, ensuring a flexible and affordable learning experience. The curriculum features ESOL-specific courses in methods and materials, assessment and appraisal, linguistics, and a practicum. In addition, students explore topics such as cultural diversity, innovative technology integration, educational research, leadership, data analysis, instructional design, and literacy development.
Why pursue a Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement) program at FHSU is designed with flexibility in mind, featuring fully online and asynchronous courses. This format enables students to balance their studies alongside professional and personal commitments, making it accessible to educators at all stages of their careers. The program is led by instructors with extensive experience in PreK–12 ESOL teaching, ensuring students benefit from practical insights and real-world expertise.
FHSU’s commitment to affordability and quality is reflected through the use of open educational resources (OER), which eliminate the need for costly textbooks while providing current and relevant materials. The curriculum is regularly updated to incorporate the latest research and trends in ESOL education, preparing graduates to effectively meet the diverse needs of their students. Additionally, the program offers both 8-week and 16-week sessions, allowing for an accelerated pathway to degree completion and enabling graduates to advance their careers 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
- Educators seeking to deepen their understanding of teaching students identified by various terms, including ESL (English as a Second Language), ENL (English as a New Language), ELL (English Language Learner), EL (English Learner), EAL (English as an Additional Language), EIL (English as an International Language), emergent bilingual, multilingual learner, dual language learner, plurilingual learner, culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) learner, and the now outdated term, limited English proficiency (LEP)
- 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
Real-World Applications
Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical assignments, educators will develop a comprehensive toolkit of resources and strategies that they can immediately apply in the classroom. Methods and materials, and assessment and appraisal courses equip graduates with the skills to teach and assess English Language Learners (ELLs) effectively.
In addition to coursework, the program prepares educators to pass the Praxis 5362 English to Speakers of Other Languages exam, a requirement for ESOL endorsement in Kansas. This endorsement enhances graduates’ credentials and makes them more attractive candidates for school districts.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of 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 educators with the most relevant and practical tools for their teaching practice. This approach keeps the curriculum fresh and innovative and prepares them to adapt to future changes in the educational landscape.
Practical Activities
Each course includes assignments and projects that require educators to apply what they have learned to real-world scenarios. The program culminates in a practicum, where they will conduct an action research project that integrates all aspects of their coursework. By the end of the program, graduates will have developed the skills and confidence needed to implement effective ESOL strategies in their classrooms.
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 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 educators can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world teaching scenarios, enhancing their ability to address the diverse needs of 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 leadership building. Students will explore various assessments and learn how to interpret, evaluate, and use results for school-wide improvement.
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) prepares graduates to impact the lives of multilingual learners significantly and opens numerous professional opportunities. The program ensures educators are ready to excel in various professional settings and roles by comprehensively understanding ESOL theory and practical teaching strategies.
ESOL Teacher
As ESOL teachers, their primary goal will be to help students develop their English language skills and succeed academically. They use various teaching methods and materials tailored to meet students' diverse needs, assess their progress, and adapt strategies to provide the necessary support.
Curriculum Specialist
Curriculum specialists work closely with teachers and administrators to create instructional programs that are both effective and culturally responsive. Their expertise helps design curricula to enhance learning experiences for English Language Learners and meet educational standards.
Language Program Coordinator
Language program coordinators manage program implementation, train teachers, and ensure the programs meet student needs. Their leadership is vital in creating a supportive learning environment and promoting best practices in language education.
Educational Consultant
Educational consultants provide professional development, conduct program evaluations, and recommend improvements to ESOL programs. Their expertise helps schools implement effective strategies and improve outcomes for English Language Learners.
ESOL Trainer
ESOL trainers design and deliver workshops, seminars, and training sessions focused on the latest research and best practices. Their work directly impacts 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
Applicants 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
Applicants must submit a written statement (1–2 pages) outlining their professional goals, reasons for pursuing the Master of Science in Education (English for Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement), and how the program aligns with their career aspirations. The statement should highlight specific experiences that have prepared them for graduate study in ESOL.
Transcripts
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. These transcripts provide a comprehensive record of their academic history and are used to assess their 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 $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/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:
- BSE in Elementary Education (Early Childhood Unified)
- BSE in Elementary Education (PreK-6)
- M.S. in Special Education (Gifted)
- M.S. in Special Education (High Incidence)
- M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence)
- M.S. in Educational Administration
- Certificate in Science of Language and Literacy (Graduate Level)
- 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.
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
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, add an endorsement, 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.
- CACREP Accreditation:
The Department of Advanced Education Programs holds Advanced-Level Accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). See the Fort Hays State University CAEP Accredited Provider page for details.
Advanced-Level Accreditation is provided at the post-baccalaureate or graduate levels leading to licensure, certification, or endorsement. Advanced-Level Programs are designed to develop P-12 teachers who have already completed an initial-licensure program, currently licensed administrators, or other certified (or similar state language) school professionals for employment in P-12 schools/districts. CAEP's Advanced-Level accreditation does not include any advanced-level program not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts; any advanced-level non-licensure programs, including those specific to content areas; or educational leadership programs not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts.
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