It takes approximately 2 years assuming that all coursework from specialization area is completed. We recommend taking these courses prior to starting the official cohort in the fall semester. We schedule the EDBE and EDCI courses but do not control offering of specialization coursework.

At this time there is no financial aid at UTPA, however, we are always applying for funding opportunities and if awarded would support current, as well as future students. Most public school districts partially or fully support teachers pursuing their master's degree. Check with your school district.

No

With this unique M. Ed. in Bilingual Education, you are not only a "master teacher" but you would have "dual expertise" since you also specialized in a related area (reading, early childhood, special education, gifted & talented, or educational leadership). Depending on area of specialization, you have the following additional benefits which make you extremely marketable:

Reading, Special Education, Early Childhood, Gifted & Talented:

1. You are qualified to be hired as a "program coordinator" at a district (e. g. Reading Coordinator) given your "bilingual Education & reading expertise)
2. You are qualified to "teach at a Texas college or university" undergraduate coursework in your specialized area and in bilingual education since you would meet the 18 hour requirement set by the state of Texas.

Educational Leadership:

1. You are qualified to "teach at a Texas college or university" undergraduate coursework in bilingual education since you would meet the 18 hour requirement set by the state of Texas.
2. You are eligible to continue and pursue your "principal certificate" by completing additional coursework and successfully completing TExES Administrator's Examination through the Department of Educational Leadership at UTPA.