News Releases
Capella University announces online master's specialization in English Language Learning and Teaching
More than 20 percent of K-12 students in the U.S. come from non-English speaking homes
MINNEAPOLIS, January 25, 2011 – Capella University, an accredited online university* that has built its reputation by providing high-quality online degree programs for working adults, has announced a new English Language Learning and Teaching specialization within its Master of Science in Education program. More than 38,000 students are pursuing an online education at Capella University (http://www.capella.edu), with 30 percent enrolled in Capella's doctoral degree programs and 48 percent enrolled in Capella's master's degree programs.
A growing need for educators with expertise in teaching English Language Learners
Capella's master's specialization in English Language Learning and Teaching is designed to prepare licensed K-12 educators to teach the growing number of students who are not native English speakers, or serve as an English Language Learner (ELL) curriculum specialist or program manager.
"The number of ELL students has more than doubled over the past several decades," says Barbara Butts Williams, PhD, dean of Capella's School of Education. "Limited English skills can affect student success in every academic area, so it's critical they have teachers skilled in instructional strategies and best practices that have proven effective with ELLs. We created our new English Language Learning and Teaching master's specialization to help fill that need – and the need is great. In 2004, more than a third of public schools had vacancies for ELL teachers, and the number of ELL students continues to grow. Today, there are more than 5 million ELL students and the Pew Hispanic Center estimates there will be 18 million by 2025."
Designed around national curriculum standards
Capella's specialization was designed around national curriculum standards for English Language Learners, and includes such courses as ELL assessment, applied linguistics, curriculum development, cultural competence, and classroom management. It also incorporates information on the latest instructional technologies and collaborative teaching approaches, which improve student success by working together with other teachers, administrators, school guidance staff, and families.
Enrollment now open
Capella is now accepting enrollment applications for its MS in Education, English Language Learning and Teaching specialization. For more information, please call 1.888.CAPELLA (227.3552) or email info@capella.edu.
Review of this specialization is pending in AL, KS, ND, SC, TN, WA, and WI.
State regulations vary regarding course requirements for professional licensure. For assistance with state-mandated course requirements for licensure, contact the designated school representative.
Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure and salary benefits. It is the learners' responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for their states.
New York and North Carolina residents are currently not eligible to enroll in this program.
This specialization is not currently state-approved and will not lead to endorsement until state approval is received.
About Capella University
Capella University is an accredited online university* that has built its reputation by providing quality online degree programs for working adults. Nearly 80 percent of Capella students are currently enrolled in master's or doctoral online degree programs in the fields of business, counseling, education, health administration, human services, information technology, nursing, psychology, public administration, public health, public safety, and social work. Capella also offers bachelor's degree programs in business, information technology, nursing, psychology, public administration, and public safety. Within those areas, Capella currently offers 136 graduate and undergraduate specializations and 17 certificate programs. More than 38,000 learners were enrolled as of September 30, 2010, from all 50 states and 52 other countries. Capella is committed to providing high-caliber academic excellence and pursuing balanced business growth. Founded in 1993, Capella University is a wholly owned subsidiary of Capella Education Company, headquartered in Minneapolis. For more information, please visit http://www.capella.edu or call 1.888.CAPELLA (227.3552).
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*Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), http://www.ncahlc.org. Capella University, Capella Tower, 225 South Sixth Street, Ninth Floor, Minneapolis, MN 55402, 1.888.CAPELLA (227.3552), www.capella.edu.
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