M.A. Dual Endorsement | LBS I and Bilingual/ESL

Through interactive online coursework, collaborative projects, and immersive assignments, you'll engage in hands-on learning and create lesson plans and strategies for immediate application in your classroom.

Graduates of the M.A. Dual Endorsement program at Saint Xavier University will be equipped to design and implement equitable, inclusive, and culturally validating learning environments that meet the diverse needs of students. They will utilize effective instructional strategies tailored for students with disabilities and English learners, develop and apply classroom management plans, and collaborate with families, caregivers, and communities to support student success. With a thorough understanding of laws, policies, and service delivery models related to special education and bilingual/ESL instruction, graduates will plan and deliver integrated language and content instruction, fostering positive learning experiences.

The Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS I) Endorsement program provides you with all the tools, resources and expertise needed to serve as a special educator or as a more proficient general educator to students with disabilities in your general education classroom.

The courses in this program cover topics including characteristics of students with disabilities, diagnosis assessment for educational decision-making, and methods of teaching students with disabilities. Learn more about the LBS I Endorsement, including specific courses and requirements.

When you earn a Bilingual Education endorsement or an ESL endorsement, you develop the skills and capabilities necessary to serve students who are English language learners in a general education classroom, co-teaching setting or push-in or pull-out model, such as a dual language model.

Coursework required for either endorsement include six courses (or 18 credit hours) of study following ISBE requirements. In addition to completing the required courses, those seeking bilingual endorsement must pass an Illinois proficiency exam in a second language.

Learn more about the Bilingual or ESL Endorsement program, including specific courses and requirements.