This degree is taught in ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, which is internationally ranked for the quality of its teacher preparation programs. In fact, ASU began as an institution for training teachers. The BAE program for elementary education with a concentration in educating multilingual learners prepares students for certification in grades K-8 as well as a preK-12 bilingual education or English as a second language endorsement in the state of Arizona. This program offers students a firm grounding in current research and critical pedagogy for English language learners. Candidates take several courses that focus on language diversity, dialectal variation, funds of knowledge and practices that value cultural and community engagements. Students learn processes for developing and supporting the needs of students with individual language learning plans. Students also receive preparation in elementary academic content areas, including math, language arts, social studies and science with a specific focus on meeting the academic and linguistic needs of emergent bilinguals. Students will learn about the foundations of second language acquisition, biliteracy, culturally relevant pedagogy and effective language instruction. Knowledge of these subjects prepares prospective educators to develop critical perspectives that will help them to advocate for bilingual children and families.
3.5 GPA or equivalent. Must have three years of high school coursework. (If you are currently in high school, ASU needs to see 9–11 grade coursework. If you have completed high school, ASU needs to see 10–12 grade coursework.) Must have and present a completed high school diploma or certificate.