Program Details | English for Speakers of Other Languages

Curriculum

This program prepares educators to support multilingual and culturally diverse learners through an understanding of language, culture, and equity in PK–12 settings. Coursework emphasizes culturally sustaining pedagogy, second language acquisition, bilingual education history and policy, and inclusive assessment practices. Candidates develop strategies to create equitable classrooms, design linguistically and developmentally appropriate instruction, and build strong school–community partnerships. The program emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic barriers, including racism, linguicism, and ableism, while valuing the bilingual, bicultural, and multicultural strengths of students and their families. A practicum experience provides opportunities to apply knowledge and skills in real classroom settings.

Course descriptions

For full course descriptions, please consult the Bulletin or Class Schedule.

Program format

Modality

Online, scheduled meetings: This program is held entirely online with synchronous class meeting times via zoom.

Part-time

Time to completion:  one to two years

Scheduling

Evening: Classes are held primarily on Monday evenings. Experiential learning at the end of the program requires daytime hours.

Weekly Estimated Time Commitment

The PSU Credit Hour Policy defines 1 credit hour as requiring a minimum of 3 hours of student time per week over the course of the term. PSU operates on the quarter system, and terms last 10 weeks.

Graduate school is a big commitment; please consider this information as a starting tool to help you gain a sense of the time commitment. Students learn differently and you may find that it takes you more time to complete the coursework on a weekly basis. Generally, a graduate program is more intensive and should require more time on homework than undergraduate courses; therefore, we recommend planning for more time than the minimum.

Students in this program generally take 3-6 credits per term and should expect to spend at least 10–15 hours per week outside of classroom time on homework and related activities.

At the end of the program, students engage in experiential learning through a 90-hour practicum, which takes additional time to complete. At the end of the program, students engage in experiential learning through a practicum, which takes additional time to complete. Generally, the practicum requires 90 hours per term, which is approximately 10 hours per week. The practicum can be taken in the fall,  winter, or spring terms after all or most of the coursework is completed.

Self-paced: This program is self-paced, meaning that students can take most or all courses on their own schedule, attend full-time, part-time, or change their enrollment on a term-by-term basis. Classes follow the regular PSU academic calendar structure.

All classes must be completed within 7 years of beginning the program.

This program of study reflects our recommended pacing. If you are a PPS employee, please connect with us about our partnership program.

Practicum

Practicum is the culminating activity. It provides an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate knowledge and skill in teaching English language learners as acquired through the program coursework. Students complete 90 hours working with at least two students who are English Language Learners. Generally, this means 10 hours per week for one term. Students can complete practicum in their own classroom or in a placement arranged by PSU.

Program Completion

Once you have finished all of the added endorsement program's requirements (coursework, test, practicum), follow all steps of the instructions for adding an endorsement.

You must complete all program requirements before beginning the instructions for adding an endorsement.

General licensure questions? Contact Licensure directly.