Bilingual Bicultural Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the faculty in the Bilingual-Bicultural Education (BBE) Program?

Dr. Sonia Soltero, Bilingual Education, English as a Second Language, and Bi literacy
Dr. Jay Goulah
Dr. Katie Van Sluys, Literacy

What is the difference between getting a masters degree in BBE and getting a masters degree in Teaching and Learning (T&L)?

The masters degree in BBE is not a certification program. The masters degree in T&L is a teacher certification program. The primary difference between the two programs is the focus of each program. A masters degree in BBE with certification has a focus on bilingual education and ESL. A master degree in T&L with ESL/bilingual education endorsements has a focus on general education.

What is the difference between an M.A. and an M.Ed. degree?

The Master of Arts (M.A.) requires a master's thesis. The Master in Education (M.Ed.) does not require a master's thesis but requires an integrative paper before completing the program.

Must I be proficient in a second language to participate in the BBE masters program?

No, you do not have to be proficient in second language to participate in the BBE masters program.

Must I be proficient in a second language to be an ESL teacher?

No, to be an ESL teacher or to get endorsed by the state in ESL you do not have to be proficient in a second language.

Must I be proficient in a second language to be a bilingual teacher?

Yes, to be a bilingual teacher or to get endorsed by the state in bilingual education you must show proficiency in a second language. You must take a state administered language proficiency test to determine whether you have sufficient competencies in the second language. The state endorses bilingual teachers in languages that have large K-12 student representation in the public schools in Illinois. For more information on the languages that are endorsed in Illinois, visit the Illinois State Board of Education website.

If I get a masters degree in BBE and I do not have K-12 state teaching certification, can I get the state endorsements in ESL/bilingual education?

Although you will have the required courses for both endorsements, you cannot get the endorsements from the state without a teaching certification.

What is the difference between a transitional bilingual certificate and an endorsement?

The transitional bilingual certificate (Type 29) is a temporary teaching certificate (for six years) awarded to bilingual teachers who have a bachelor degree in a non-education field and who are taking education courses to get certified in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education or Secondary Education. An endorsement is a state approval of specialization that is added to the state teaching certificate.

How many courses must I take to get my masters degree in BBE and how long will it take to finish the program?

You must take 13 courses toward the M.A. or M.Ed. in Bilingual-Bicultural Education. The length of time it will take you to finish the program depends on how many courses you take per quarter. There are 3 BBE courses offered every quarter, and one in the summer session. The SCG courses are offered every quarter.

May I transfer courses from another university?

You may transfer up to two graduate courses from another university based on a review of transcripts and syllabi to determine equivalency