Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Education | Graduate Studies | Fort Lewis College

Teach across cultures and language

An education student works on a project with grade school children.

You want to make public education accessible and equitable for students of all linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Learn how to meet the needs of bilingual students and teach in culturally inclusive and responsive ways with this graduate program option.

This program does not include teacher licensure.

Cohorts begin the fall semester of every even year.

Culturally & Linguistically Diverse (CLD) Education program options

CLD Program options

Endorsement Pathway & Certificate

Earn a certificate as you complete the requirements for adding a CLD endorsement (TESOL in New Mexico) to your existing teaching license. These courses are also included in the MAE program option.

21 credits

Master of Arts in Education

Earn a Master of Arts in Education with specialization in CLD education. Courses satisfy requirements for adding an endorsement to your existing teaching license.

30 credits

Program overview

You will work with faculty and professionals to understand theories, concepts, and research about language acquisition and development for emergent bilinguals.

  • Examine best practices for curricula and instruction that support literacy and language development.
  • Boost your knowledge of instructional strategies to support developing English language proficiency.

  • Learn how to include culture, diversity, and equity in environments for academic access and learning opportunities.
  • Apply data to support linguistically marginalized students, especially in content learning and language development.

  • Work in school-based field settings to apply language acquisition theory and instructional methods for language and content learning.
  • Collaborate with your faculty advisor on a research project exploring educational issues impacting instruction and school structures.

Program requirements

Minimum eligibility for Graduate Studies

Bachelor’s degree 

You have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university. 

Grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher 

You need a 3.00 or higher on a 4.00 GPA scale for undergraduate and prior graduate coursework.

*Note: This is true for coursework, even if it did not lead to a degree. We will calculate a cumulative GPA if you have multiple transcripts. 

GPA exceptions 

If your GPA is below 3.0, and you still wish to apply, you can write a letter to the Admission Committee that includes: 

  • Why you did not meet the 3.0 GPA requirements.
  • An action plan addressing those reasons with specific strategies to balance coursework (including class time and homework) and personal commitments. Your strategy may include:
    • Creating and adhering to a schedule
    • Using FLC’s writing support program and other campus resources
    • Setting regular meetings with faculty
    • Following specific study plans 
Requirements to apply to the CLD program

Teaching experience in P-12 schools is not required for this program. 

We encourage you to apply if you: 

  • Have full-time or part-time employment in a teaching position (or on leave from a teaching position) in a local public or private school as the instructor of record (not a student teacher or para-professional). 
  • Teach on Special Assignment (TOSA), English Language Development teacher, and/ or Instructional Coach 
  • Have access to students and school data if you are not employed as a teacher. 

Note: Full-time or part-time school volunteers are eligible for consideration in particular situations.

Technology requirements

Teacher Education graduate programs require specific computer technology. Graduate students can use a personal device that meets these requirements or have full access to the campus computer labs. 

View the full list of requirements on the Admitted Student Checklist.

Career possibilities

The Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Education program will:  

  • Augment your existing teaching license with a CLD endorsement in Colorado or a TESOL endorsement in New Mexico.
  • Teach you to be an effective educator in an organization that serves people of diverse backgrounds.
  • Prepare you to teach internationally.
 
Megan, School of Education

Scholars in Action

Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Education