Master of Education in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education

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The Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education addresses the need for licensed teachers to be knowledgeable in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). This graduate degree meets all the requirements set forth in the rules by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) for an endorsement in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education. The degree is also aligned with the standards for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This graduate degree is designed to provide professional development for current and aspiring educators and school professionals who are seeking additional skills in teaching English language learners both in Colorado and around the world. The M.Ed. in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education is also designed to provide the skills necessary to work in other countries as English teachers or here in Colorado schools in support of English language learners. Requirements for a TESOL certificate are embedded within the degree curriculum.

Objectives of the Master of Education in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education

The Master of Education degree in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education Program provides students with the tools to advance their professional education careers. At Colorado Christian University, Master of Education in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education Program graduates will demonstrate the content knowledge and professional behaviors necessary for successful performance as CLDE/TESOL teachers within a US school, or as English teachers in other countries.

The overall program goal is to prepare educators with the knowledge and ability to teach English to speakers of other languages in the United States and other countries. Students will be able to:

Evaluate how Scripture informs the theories, concepts, principles, and practices of CLDE/TESOL
Develop instructional strategies to meet English language learner needs
Incorporate original research into the established body of knowledge in CLDE/TESOL
Incorporate original research within the established body of knowledge in CLDE/TESOL as part of developing and applying a personal Philosophy of Education
Develop lessons focusing on critical linguistic structures in support of second language development
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the relationship between cultural identity and heritage and English language learning

Admission to the Master of Education in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education Degree Program

Admission to the M.Ed. in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education program is selective. Applicants are evaluated on the basis of previous academic performance, personal and professional accomplishments and goals, and strength of professional disposition qualities. Each applicant is carefully evaluated for his or her ability to contribute to the program. A strong desire to complete graduate-level work in a Christ-centered, biblically based community is important.

Admission Requirements

A completed application form (including essay, transcripts, and fees)
Valid state-issued driver’s license or state-issued ID card or passport
An official transcript that reflects a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
One professional recommendation from an individual who is not a family member
Personal interview
Resume or Curriculum Vitae
A minimum undergraduate grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with an undergraduate grade point average between 2.0 and 2.49 will be admitted on a conditional admit (CAD) basis for the first semester. CAD students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better in their first nine (9) credits to remain in the program.
Completed background check (Required for program admission in order to complete field requirements.)

Academic Requirements

Students who earn a C- or lower in a graduate education course are required to repeat the course. CLD 691 - Capstone must be completed with a B- or higher.

Time Limitation

All work applied toward the M.Ed. in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education degree must be completed within a four-year period from the date of enrollment. After the four-year period, a M.Ed. in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education student who has not completed the requirements to graduate will be withdrawn from the program. Students who step out of the program for more than 365 days, or go beyond the four-year period and wish to complete their M.Ed. in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education degree will be required to apply for readmission. If readmission is granted, additional coursework may be required. Students will be required to adhere to current academic policies, tuition, and fees.

Required Courses for the Master of Education in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education Degree (30 Credit Hours)

Graduate Certificate in TESOL

Requirements for a TESOL certificate are embedded within the M.Ed. in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education curriculum. Students who have completed the following five courses in the degree will receive a TESOL certificate.

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Education in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education Degree

The faculty recommends students in the Master of Education in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education degree to the Board of Trustees as candidates for graduation when they have completed the following requirements:

Completion of 30 credit hours required for the degree
A letter grade of C or better in each graduate education course and a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher on the university’s 4.0 grade scale in all CCU coursework
Completion of CLD 691 - Capstone for the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Educator with a grade of B- or better
Satisfactory completion of the specific courses required for the full degree within four years of program admission and enrollment
Formal and timely application for graduation by the date specified by the University Registrar
No outstanding financial obligations to the University