Educational Specialist in Second Language Instruction

Total Cost Ed.S. in Second Language Instruction
Total Tuition 34 semester credits x $306 per credit	$10,404
Fees $100 Application Fee $150 Conferral Fee $1530 Technology and Library Fee (34 Semester Credits X $45 per Credit)	$1,780
Total Program Cost	$12,184^*

BE6043	Advanced Foundations of Second Language Learners	3 Semester Credits
This course provides an understanding of the historical, political, social, cultural, and instructional concepts and issues that affect linguistically and culturally diverse learners in a variety of settings. Students will research and review local, state, and federal policies regarding entitlement and appropriate services for second language learners. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of language development and acquisition and design research based support and instruction for second language learners. U.S. and international program models are analyzed and current theories of Second Language Acquisition (SLA), bilingualism, and socio-cultural theories are explored for their pedagogical implications. Students will develop assessment instruments, select materials, and learn how to monitor learning outcomes to support and enhance the development of second language learners.
BE6053	Assessment Methods for Second Language Learners	3 Semester Credits
Students in this course examine assessment approaches for second language learners within the larger framework of historical, social, cultural, and political contexts. Students will evaluate assessment tools and research historical theories in order to analyze the best practices in assessment of second language learners. Utilizing a variety of theoretical models related to second language acquisition and academic achievement, students 1) analyze the ways that second language students are diverse, 2) discuss equitable assessment of diverse learners, and 3) evaluate existing instruments for second language learners. Students examine and review relevant state or national standards for content matter learning and language proficiency and examine how those are assessed in mandated, large-scale assessment and in professional assessments (traditional and alternative). Students in non-traditional settings will examine how to align assessment methods with current professional standards for the field. Students will learn how to target certain learning outcomes by using critically evaluated materials.
BE6063	Methods and Materials for Second Language Instruction	3 Semester Credits
This course focuses on the methodology for teaching language and content to second language learners. Participants research and critically examine historical and current ESL and bilingual education program models, theories of ESL and bilingual instruction and literacy, first and second language acquisition, and transfer of skills and content knowledge between first and second language. Relevant federal, state, and local learning and assessment standards are researched, reviewed and applied to their instructional settings. Participants research and use various methods, approaches, and techniques, as well as discuss the selection, use, and evaluation of books, multimedia, and other materials in the first and subsequent languages to support second language learners across multiple professional settings.
BE6073	Professional Advocacy and Leadership for Second Language Learners	3 Semester Credits
This course addresses growth opportunities for leaders as they increase their awareness of the need for advocates in the area of second language instruction in a variety of settings. Students will research policy and laws at the local, state, and national levels and reflect upon how they impact the second language learners in their current professional setting. Emphasis is placed on building the knowledge and skills required to share information on policies and trends with colleagues; to work collaboratively with others to advocate for second language learners and instructor rights, needs, and resources, and to represent and advocate for second language learners both within and beyond their current instructional settings.
BE6083	Understanding Linguistics and Second Language Learners	3 Semester Credits
This course covers the following essential dimensions of linguistics and the acquisition of language: language and the brain, first and second language acquisition, major components of linguistics (phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and sociolinguistics), cognition and learning, and communicative competence. The course examines second language learners and their proficiency in oral, reading, and writing skills in English as well as the importance of the home languages as a foundation for learning a second language. Students get an overview of socio-cultural, psychological, and political variables that play a part in second language acquisition, which will translate to greater understanding of second language learners as they navigate the community and professional settings.
BE6113	Technology for Second Language Instruction	3 Semester Credits
This course will examine types of educational technology resources which support second language learners. Students will explore how to evaluate the use of technology in different educational settings, and how to integrate it in course design. Students will also analyze strategies for assessing and selecting current and relevant technology tools to meet the needs of second language learners. Students will be required to develop an integrated technology project for improving second language learners’ language development or an academic aspect in an instructional setting. Students will also create a research proposal to investigate a technology tool to support second language education, aligned to the developmental needs of their learners.
BE6123	Cross-cultural studies for teaching second language learners	3 Semester Credits
This course evaluates the impact of culture on society and the educational system and the role in addressing the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse students. This course will explore the dynamic processes of acculturation and cultural conflict in learning a second language. Students will examine the role of culture in an educational system and how ethno-linguistic groups contribute to the dynamics of the classroom. Students will analyze behavioral expectations and learning styles of students from different backgrounds and how classroom dynamics and teacher expectations shape perceptual judgments of learners. Students will create culturally relevant instruction to further second language development and the academic success of diverse groups and create ways to foster collaborative and dynamic learning environments.
CAP6003	Capstone in Education Specialist	3 Semester Credits
The Capstone Experience is designed for candidates to demonstrate and document the impact of their knowledge and competencies gained throughout the Educational Specialist program.
LEAD6001	Introduction to Advanced Studies	1 Semester Credits
This course introduces essential resources and tools available to foster academic success in advanced graduate programs. Students will identify their unique strengths and challenges and explore strategies for personal and professional growth.
LEAD6011	Leadership as a Reflective Practice	1 Semester Credits
This course focuses on defining and practicing reflective leadership. Students will analyze leadership characteristics, engage in reflective practice, and plan for future growth as a leader.
LEAD6021	Leadership Seminar	1 Semester Credits
This course provides a foundational understanding of leadership theories, principles, and practices. Students explore a variety of leadership styles to develop their leadership identity.
RES6003	Applied Statistics	3 Semester Credits
This course examines basic principles in applied statistics. Topics include data types, organizing data, graphing techniques, probability concepts, measures of central tendency, normal and skewed distributions, and understanding the area that covers normal distributions. Understanding, applying, and interpreting the principles of simple hypothesis testing methods are also covered. The course is designed to provide an introduction to statistical applications that can be applied in real-world settings.
RES6013	Research Methods	3 Semester Credits
This course provides learners with the foundation and practical application of research methods and designs. Emphasis will be placed on evaluating research literature and aligning the components of qualitative and quantitative methods and designs. Students will explore theoretical frameworks for research studies and dissertations. Ethical practices in research will also be explored.
RES6041	Scholarly Writing and Research Strategies	1 Semester Credits
This course examines the importance of scholarly writing in your leadership practice, the foundation of how to write in a scholarly mode, and research strategies to support your doctoral writing.