Master of Science in Teaching Emerging Bilingual Learners for Teachers (K-12)

Every student has it in them to succeed. Sometimes, all they need is a teacher who really sees them, who understands them, and who speaks their language. With a master’s degree in bilingual education from Monroe’s King Graduate School, you can become that teacher.

Our Master of Science in Education: Teaching Emerging Bilingual Learners for Teachers K-12 is designed for teachers who:

• Speak both English and Spanish fluently 
• Have already earned their initial teaching certificate in any grade band from the New York State Education Department (NYSED)

The MSEd in bilingual education offers high-level coursework in multicultural and bilingual education theory in both English and Spanish. Candidates then get to apply what they’ve learned through fieldwork opportunities in culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms. 

You’ll graduate not only as an expert in dual-language teaching, but as a champion for equity in education. You’ll also be well-prepared to earn your NYSED bilingual certification (in line with your initial certification).

Evidence suggests that dual-language programs may improve learning outcomes for both EBLs and native English speakers. By becoming a certified bilingual educator, you become a teacher for everyone. 

What Are the Advantages of Earning a Master’s Degree in Bilingual Education? 

Though there has been a significant growth in bilingual and dual-language immersive (DLI) schools in recent years, only 16.5% of American EBLs are in classrooms that fully support their bilingualism. This is despite the fact that bilingual and DLI programs are proven to help EBLs succeed academically. 

This means there’s a huge demand for dual-language educators nationwide, from early childhood education all the way to high school. In New York State alone, nearly 9% of all public school students are EBLs. 

That demand has led to increased incentives for bilingual education teachers. The New York State Senate has even introduced a bill designed to attract and retain certified bilingual teachers in high-need areas. 

Most importantly, you’ll be able to make a difference in the lives of diverse students throughout New York State. The right teacher can help EBLs realize their full potential, both in and out of the classroom. 

Candidates applying for the MSEd in bilingual education must:

• Have earned their Initial Teacher Certificate from the NYSED, and
• Be bilingual in English and Spanish

Candidates must also submit:

• A completed application for admission
• A personal statement describing why they want to attend the program
• A current professional résumé
• A current teaching license
• Transcripts from all prior educational institutions attended
• Two (2) letters of reference attesting to their character and positive disposition, as well as their ability to advocate for students and their families

MSEd candidates must also participate in a pre-admission personal interview.

Learn more about how to apply to Monroe University.

How Much Does a Master’s in Bilingual Education Cost?

Monroe’s dedicated financial aid officers will work with you one-on-one to help you secure every scholarship, grant, and loan for which you’re eligible — including several scholarships  specifically for graduate students including the federal TEACH grant.

We’ve also been awarded an NYSED Teacher Opportunity Corps II (TOC II) grant to provide qualified, diverse New York State resident candidates with Teaching Professions Scholarship specific to our graduate programs. 

It’s opportunities like those, along with our affordable tuition and fees, that make Monroe one of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Value Schools in Regional Universities North. 

*TOC II candidates must be New York State residents who want to pursue teaching in New York State.

Where Can I Teach with a Master’s Degree in Bilingual Education? 

Once you earn your New York State bilingual certification, you’ll be well-positioned to teach in public, charter, and private schools across the state that need licensed, skilled, bilingual educators. There’s a well-documented shortage of bilingual teachers in the state of New York; some districts even offer tuition reimbursement for teachers professionally certified to teach bilingual learners.

View factsheet.