91Ó°ÊÓ

Help Multilingual learning students overcome barriers and gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

91Ó°ÊÓ’s Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language (M.Ed. in ESL) program focuses on teaching from a multicultural and inclusive perspective. Through coursework and field observations, 91Ó°ÊÓ candidates will learn how to modify instruction and assessment for students with various different language backgrounds and cultures and abilities.

91Ó°ÊÓ's Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language (M.Ed. in ESL) prepares educators to meet the diverse needs of multilingual learners through culturally responsive, research-based instruction. Through rigorous coursework and supervised field experiences, candidates learn to design equitable instruction and assessment, foster inclusive learning environments, and advocate for students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Prepare to make a lasting impact in the lives of multilingual learners

91Ó°ÊÓ's Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language prepares educators to create inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments where multilingual learners thrive academically, linguistically, and socially. Through rigorous coursework, supervised clinical experiences, and personalized faculty mentorship, graduates develop the knowledge, skills, and leadership needed to excel in ESL and bilingual education across PreK–12 settings.

Graduates are eligible for the Illinois State Board of Education ESL Endorsement, valid for grades Pre-K through 12. Bilingual candidates may also earn a bilingual teaching endorsement, both are approved for the full range of K-12 settings.

The ESL graduate program is fully approved by the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board (SEPLB) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). All coursework is aligned with the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) standards.

Graduates are eligible to earn the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) ESL Endorsement, valid for teaching multilingual learners in PreK–12 settings. Candidates pursuing bilingual education may also earn the Illinois Bilingual Endorsement, expanding their qualifications to serve students in bilingual and dual-language programs throughout Illinois.

91Ó°ÊÓ's ESL graduate program is fully approved by the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board (SEPLB) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The curriculum is aligned with the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) professional standards, ensuring graduates are well prepared to meet the linguistic, academic, and cultural needs of multilingual learners in today's diverse classrooms.

What You’ll Learn in the ESL Master’s Degree Program

91Ó°ÊÓ's M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language combines research-based theory with meaningful clinical experiences to prepare educators to effectively serve multilingual learners in today's diverse classrooms. Through rigorous graduate coursework and supervised field experiences, you'll develop the knowledge and skills to create equitable, culturally responsive learning environments that promote academic achievement, language development, and student success.

You will learn to:

• Design culturally and linguistically responsive instruction and assessment for multilingual learners.
• Apply research-based practices in second language acquisition, bilingual education, and literacy development.
• Foster English language development while recognizing and building upon students' linguistic and cultural assets.
• Implement evidence-based instructional strategies that support multilingual learners across content areas.
• Assess language proficiency and academic achievement using culturally responsive and equitable practices.
• Build inclusive classroom environments that value multilingualism, cross-cultural understanding, and student identity.
• Collaborate effectively with families, educators, and community partners to support multilingual learners' success.

91Ó°ÊÓ's TESOL-aligned curriculum prepares graduates to become reflective educators, instructional leaders, and advocates for multilingual learners in PreK–12 schools and diverse educational settings.

• Modify instruction and assessment for multilingual students with diverse backgrounds and abilities
• Teach English language learners in multicultural classroom environments
• Support students in acquiring fluency in both spoken and written English
• Apply evidence-based strategies for literacy development across language populations
• Evaluate and assess bilingual students with cultural and linguistic awareness
• Connect cross-cultural understanding to classroom practice

This TESOL-aligned curriculum goes beyond state standards, making you a more effective educator.

Illinois ESL and Bilingual Endorsements

One of the most valuable outcomes of 91Ó°ÊÓ’s ESL master’s degree program is the path to state licensure endorsement, opening professional doors that a degree alone cannot.

One of the greatest advantages of 91Ó°ÊÓ's M.Ed. in ESL is the opportunity to earn Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)-approved ESL and Bilingual Endorsements. These credentials enhance your professional qualifications and prepare you to meet the growing demand for educators who can effectively serve multilingual learners across PreK–12 settings.

ESL Endorsement - Upon completion of initial coursework, 91Ó°ÊÓ candidates who hold an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) are eligible to add the ISBE ESL Endorsement to their licensure, valid for grades Pre-K through 12.

Candidates who hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) are eligible to add the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) ESL Endorsement upon successful completion of the required coursework. The endorsement is valid for teaching multilingual learners in PreK–12 settings.

Bilingual Teaching Endorsement - Bilingual candidates are also eligible to earn a bilingual teaching endorsement, recognizing their capacity to serve linguistically diverse students at the highest level.

Bilingual Endorsement - Candidates who demonstrate proficiency in a second language and meet Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) requirements are eligible to earn the Illinois Bilingual Endorsement. This credential prepares educators to teach and support multilingual learners in bilingual and dual-language programs across PreK–12 settings.

Endorsement-Only Option - Already hold an Illinois PEL and looking to add an ESL credential without completing the full master’s degree? 91Ó°ÊÓ offers an ESL endorsement-only option for licensed educators who want to expand their qualifications without returning for a full degree.

The ESL graduate program is fully approved by the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board and the Illinois State Board of Education. All coursework is aligned with the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) standards.

Endorsement-Only Option – Already hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)? 91Ó°ÊÓ offers an ESL and Bilingual Endorsement-Only option for licensed educators who want to earn the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) ESL Endorsement without completing the full master's degree. This flexible pathway allows educators to expand their credentials while continuing to serve multilingual learners in PreK–12 settings.

Accreditation and Professional Standards
91Ó°ÊÓ's ESL graduate program is fully approved by the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board (SEPLB) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The curriculum is aligned with the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) professional standards, ensuring graduates are prepared with the knowledge and skills to support multilingual learners through evidence-based, culturally responsive instructional practices.

TESOL Certification in Illinois

The demand for qualified teachers of English to speakers of other languages is growing across Illinois and the country. As student populations become more linguistically diverse, schools need educators who are trained to serve English language learners.

91Ó°ÊÓ’s M.Ed. in ESL positions you at the forefront of that need. With coursework aligned to TESOL standards and fieldwork embedded throughout the program, you’ll graduate with the preparation, the endorsements, and the practical experience that Illinois schools are actively looking for.

Whether you’re pursuing a master’s in teaching English as a second language to expand your current role or transition into ESL instruction, this degree gives you the credentials and the competence to lead.

TESOL Certification in Illinois
As schools across Illinois and the nation continue to serve increasingly diverse student populations, the demand for highly qualified ESL and bilingual educators continues to grow. Today's schools need professionals who are prepared to support multilingual learners through culturally responsive, evidence-based instruction that promotes academic achievement and language development.

91Ó°ÊÓ University's M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language prepares educators to meet this growing need. Through TESOL-aligned coursework, supervised clinical experiences, and expert faculty mentorship, graduates gain the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to effectively teach, advocate for, and lead in diverse PreK–12 educational settings.

Whether you are seeking to expand your current teaching role or transition into ESL or bilingual education, 91Ó°ÊÓ's M.Ed. in ESL provides the credentials, endorsements, and professional preparation to advance your career and make a meaningful impact on the lives of multilingual learners.

Scholarship Options

91Ó°ÊÓ is committed to making graduate education accessible for educators at every stage of their career.

In addition to the wide variety of Education Scholarships available to students, the TEACH Grant is available specifically for candidates pursuing specialization in bilingual education.

Speak with a Graduate Admission Counselor to explore your options and find the funding that fits your goal.

Sample Graduate Courses

The M.Ed. in English as a Second Language curriculum prepares teachers of English to speakers of other languages with advanced coursework across language theory, pedagogy, and assessment.

Sample courses include:

• Foundations of Bilingual and English Language Learner Education
• Linguistics for Teachers of English Language Learners
• Assessment of Bilingual Students
• Cross-Cultural Studies in Literacy and English Language Learning
• Teaching Reading to the Diverse Learner

Sample Graduate Courses
91Ó°ÊÓ University's M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language provides a strong foundation in second language acquisition, bilingual education, literacy, linguistics, assessment, and culturally responsive teaching. Through rigorous coursework, candidates develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support multilingual learners and create equitable learning environments across PreK–12 settings.

Sample courses include:

• Foundations of Bilingual and English Language Learner Education – Explore the historical, legal, and theoretical foundations of bilingual and ESL education while examining best practices for supporting multilingual learners.
  
  
• Linguistics for Teachers of English Language Learners – Develop an understanding of language structure, language acquisition, and linguistic diversity to inform effective instructional practices.
  
  
• Assessment of Bilingual Students – Learn to design, administer, and interpret culturally and linguistically responsive assessments that support multilingual learners' academic and language development.
  
  
• Cross-Cultural Studies in Literacy and English Language Learning – Examine the relationships among language, literacy, culture, and identity while developing strategies for creating inclusive learning environments.

Admission Requirements

• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)*
• A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 for the final 60 credit hours completed
• Official college transcripts from all institutions previously attended
• Submission of graduate application form
• Two letters of recommendation

Please refer to the Office of Graduate Admission for application requirements and specific next steps.

*Illinois PEL required for ISBE endorsement; candidates without Illinois PEL are eligible for Master of Education Program.

Career Outlook for ESL and Bilingual Educators

Teachers of English to speakers of other languages are among the most in-demand specialists in Illinois education. As school districts across the Chicago area and throughout the state serve growing numbers of English language learners, educators with a master’s in ESL or a bilingual teaching endorsement are positioned for high-impact careers.

As schools across Illinois and the nation continue to serve increasingly diverse student populations, the demand for highly qualified ESL and bilingual educators continues to grow. Educators with advanced preparation in English as a Second Language and bilingual education are well positioned for rewarding careers that support multilingual learners and promote educational equity across PreK–12 settings.

Settings where M.Ed. in ESL graduates work:

• Elementary and secondary public and private schools
• Bilingual education program across Illinois
• ESL resource and pull-out programs
• Dual-language immersion classrooms
• Community and adult literacy organizations
• Curriculum and instructional coaching roles

91Ó°ÊÓ’s relationships with more than 60 school districts, seven counties, and about 130 schools in the Chicago area means you’re being prepared for the schools and communities right here that need you.

Graduates of 91Ó°ÊÓ's M.Ed. in ESL pursue careers in:

• Elementary and secondary public and private schools
• Bilingual education programs
• ESL resource instruction programs
• Dual-language and two-way immersion programs
• Community-based and adult literacy organizations
• Curriculum development and instructional coaching
• Multilingual learner program coordination and educational leadership

91Ó°ÊÓ's strong partnerships with more than 60 school districts, seven counties, and approximately 130 schools throughout the Chicago metropolitan area provide candidates with meaningful clinical experiences and valuable professional connections. These partnerships ensure graduates are well prepared to meet the needs of multilingual learners and make an immediate impact in schools and communities across Illinois.

VIEW THE PROGRAM CURRICULUM

Related Programs

Looking for a program that combines ESL with literacy instructions? 91Ó°ÊÓ also offers:

• Curriculum & Instruction: Literacy and English Language Learning, M.Ed. - the only program in the Romeoville, Illinois area offering dual endorsements in both Reading Teacher and English as a Second Language in a single graduate degree. 

FAQs

What is an ESL master’s degree?
An ESL master's degree is a graduate program that prepares educators to effectively teach and support multilingual learners in PreK–12 educational settings. 91Ó°ÊÓ University's Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language combines coursework in second language acquisition, linguistics, literacy, culturally responsive pedagogy, and assessment with supervised clinical experiences. Graduates develop the knowledge and skills needed to create inclusive learning environments and may be eligible to earn Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) ESL and Bilingual Endorsements.

What is the difference between an M.Ed. in ESL and a MATESOL or TESOL master’s?
An M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language and a MATESOL (Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) both prepare educators to support multilingual learners through coursework in second language acquisition, linguistics, literacy, and culturally responsive teaching practices.
91Ó°ÊÓ's M.Ed. in ESL is distinguished by its alignment with Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) requirements and the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) professional standards. In addition to earning a master's degree, eligible candidates can pursue Illinois ESL and Bilingual Endorsements, preparing them to teach multilingual learners in PreK–12 schools throughout Illinois.

For licensed educators seeking to advance their careers in Illinois, 91Ó°ÊÓ's M.Ed. in ESL offers both the academic preparation and the state-approved endorsement pathways needed to meet the growing demand for highly qualified ESL and bilingual educators.

What is TESOL certification in Illinois?
In Illinois, TESOL certification typically refers to the English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement issued by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). Educators who hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) may earn this endorsement by completing an ISBE-approved ESL preparation program, such as 91Ó°ÊÓ's Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: English as a Second Language.

91Ó°ÊÓ's TESOL-aligned curriculum provides the knowledge, clinical experiences, and professional preparation needed to effectively teach and support multilingual learners in PreK–12 settings while meeting Illinois endorsement requirements.

Can I earn an ESL endorsement without completing the full master’s degree at 91Ó°ÊÓ?
Yes. 91Ó°ÊÓ offers an ESL Endorsement-Only option for educators who hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and want to earn the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) ESL Endorsement without completing the full master's degree.

This flexible pathway allows licensed educators to expand their professional credentials, strengthen their expertise in supporting multilingual learners, and meet Illinois endorsement requirements while continuing their careers in PreK–12 education.

What is the TEACH Grand, and am I eligible?
The TEACH Grant is a federal grant available to graduate students pursuing specializations in high-need fields, including bilingual education. Eligible candidates in 91Ó°ÊÓ’s M.Ed. ESL programs pursuing bilingual education coursework may qualify. Contact the Office of Graduate Admission or the financial aid office for eligibility details.

What are the admission requirements for a master’s in ESL at 91Ó°ÊÓ?
Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a GAP of at least 2.75 for the final 60 credit hours, an Illinois Professional Educator License (for the endorsement pathway), official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a completed application form.

What grade levels does the 91Ó°ÊÓ ESL and Bilingual endorsement cover?
Both the ESL and bilingual endorsements earned through 91Ó°ÊÓ’s M.Ed. programs are valid for grades Pre-K through 12.

Need more Information?

Share ➤