Overview
UTRGV’s innovative and unique Master of Education (MED) in Bilingual Education is designed to develop master teachers and advocates with a thorough understanding of effective enrichment bilingual education and practices that meet the educational needs of Spanish speakers as well as enrichment opportunities for all children. Students in this degree program take coursework in language development, second language acquisition, and models of effective practice, linguistics, and assessment. Unique among master’s degrees in bilingual education, the MED in Bilingual Education prepares "dual experts" in various areas to promote and support enrichment bilingual education. Students completing the degree will be able to provide expert instruction, advise administrators, participate in program development, and lead professional development for schools and districts. Above all, students will become agents of change by advocating for bilingual learners and equitably implementing education policy for their communities. The Mexican American Studies Specialization is delivered in English and focuses on building teachers who have a strong knowledge of the Mexican American community and experiences.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the graduate program in bilingual education, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other requirements listed below.
- Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester credit hours. If applicant does not meet the minimum undergraduate GPA criterion of 3.0, the applicant will be evaluated holistically using a Likert scale reflecting professional goals, GPA, professional success from resume, and success on related prior course work.
- Personal statement essays (complete both a and b). Essay A: Write 250 words in English explaining your interest in graduate studies. Essay B: Write 250 words for your chosen specialization: Mexican American Studies: In English, explain your interest in Mexican American studies in bilingual environments.
- Resume which includes educational and background and work experience.
- Documentation of one of the following:
(a) i. UTRGV bachelor’s degree in education with a concentration in Bilingual Education or ESL or bachelor’s degree in Spanish, or
ii. UTRGV bachelor’s degree in any field with a minor in ESL instruction, or
(b) Teacher certification in the U.S. or,
(c) Licenciatura or equivalent from another country, in a field related to education or language, or
(d) Employment in a charter school, private school, or a community college.
For other applicants, conditional admission may be considered.
Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply.