Through this program, certified Washington educators will be eligible to earn a P-12 English Language Learner endorsement upon successful completion of the WEST-E for English Language Learners (test 051) to add to their teaching certificate.

Admissions Requirements

1. Have earned a baccalaureate degree (either a BA or BS) from an accredited institution of higher education.
2. Have earned a GPA ≥3.0 on a 4–point scale during the final 90 quarter credits (or 60 semester credits) of enrolled coursework.
3. Submit a copy of an educator certificate.

Plan of Study

Courses could be offered in different terms, checking with the academic department is paramount in keeping an individual plan current.

Expedited Pace Plan

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First half of term.

²

Second half of term.

Students who earn an English Language Learners Graduate Certificate from EWU should be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of language as a system and apply linguistic knowledge to instruction - Graduates will demonstrate a deep understanding of phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics and use this knowledge to design learning experiences that support ELLs’ language and literacy development across content areas;
• Apply major theories of second language acquisition and multilingual development - Graduates will understand and apply major theories and research related to second language acquisition, bilingual development, culture, and the role of first-language transfer in ELL learning;
• Design, plan, and implement high‑quality standards‑based ESL and content instruction - Graduates will plan, implement, and manage instruction that integrates evidence‑based practices and technology to promote both academic content learning and English language proficiency;
• Develop, adapt, and evaluate curriculum and instructional materials for ELLs - Graduates will design and evaluate TESOL/ELL teaching methods, curricular materials, and assessments aligned with learner needs, cultural backgrounds, and proficiency levels;
• Select, administer, and interpret assessments for English language learners - Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in selecting, using, and interpreting cognitive, academic, and linguistic assessments to guide instruction and monitor ELL progress;
• Create culturally responsive, supportive learning environments for multilingual learners - Graduates will construct learning environments grounded in theories of culture and learning, ensuring that instruction honors students’ diverse linguistic, cultural, and social backgrounds;
• Engage in reflective practice and conduct research to improve ELL instruction - Graduates will apply research methods, evaluate sources, conduct original research, and engage in reflective teaching practices that support academic and professional growth;
• Demonstrate effective collaboration and leadership in supporting ELL learners and families - Graduates will use communication and leadership skills to work collaboratively with educators, families, and communities to support multilingual learners and advocate for equitable practices;
• Integrate technology and digital tools to support language development and access - Graduates will incorporate technology-rich instructional strategies and digital learning tools to enhance engagement, accessibility, and linguistic development for English learners;
• Demonstrate readiness for applied practice through supervised field experiences and/or internship - Graduates will apply ELL instructional methods, assessment techniques, and reflective practice in authentic K–12 or adult ESL settings through structured field experiences or internships.