Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education

Welcome to the Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education!

The Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education serves the entire university as the home for Educator Preparation Program at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. All paths leading to Texas certification, regardless of college, whether undergraduate or graduate, are guided by the College of Education and Human Performance through the Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education and the Center for Educator Preparation Services. 

We offer five specialized master's degree programs and the nation's first Bilingual Education Doctorate. Highlights of our program are our outstanding faculty who offer nurturing academic environments for learning through traditional, hybrid, and online course delivery. We house the King Ranch Early Childhood Center and we sponsor the Annual Conference in Bilingual Education since 1975 (44 years). 

We invite you to pursue the dynamic careers that await you in the education profession; begin or continue your academic journey through the Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education. 

Bilingual Education (EDBL)

EDBL 5338  Foundations of Bilingual Education  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course is an introduction to conceptual, linguistic, sociological, historical, and legal foundations of bilingual education.

EDBL 5358  Bilingual Child, Bicultural Environment  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course explores psychological and sociological emergent bilingual perspectives on the child's learning environment.

EDBL 5386  Math, Science, and Social Studies in Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL Classrooms   3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course examines methods, techniques and vocabulary needed for teaching mathematics, science, and social studies in dual Language, bilingual, and Sheltered ESL Classrooms. Course may be taught in BL, DL, and ESL.

EDBL 5387  Language Arts and Reading in Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL Classrooms  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An examination of methods and techniques for teaching oral skills, reading, and writing in dual language, bilingual, and sheltered ESL classrooms. Relationship among the communication skills will be explored.

EDBL 5389  Special Topics in Bilingual Ed  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course may be repeated when topics change. Some examples of advanced topics could be translanguaging, bilingual special education, heritage language programs and instruction, educational linguistics, and bilingual/dual language leadership.

Early Childhood (EDEC)

EDEC 5316  Soc and Natural Sci Studies  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Content and methods for promotion development of knowledge, skills and attitudes in social and natural sciences for preschool children. Unit themes will be developed for integrating curriculum.

EDEC 5333  Foundations of Early Ch Curr  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Historical, philosophical, sociological and psychological bases for early childhood curriculum design. The representation of research, theory and professional recommendation in developmentally appropriate practice.

EDEC 5335  Integrated Curriculum  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An advanced course in curriculum design with an emphasis on integration of content areas for instruction. Math, science, language, arts and social studies scope and sequence will be presented. Adaptations for special populations will be included.

EDEC 5349  Creative Activities and Play  3 SCH  (3-0)  

A study of creative thought and behavior in young children. Methods and materials for teaching art, music and dramatics for young children. Theories of play and development.

EDEC 5351  Spec Prob Sem in Early Ch Ed  3 SCH  (0-3)  

The identification and research of specific problems as they relate to preschool programs. May be repeated once.

EDEC 5352  Sem Early Childhood Prog Lead  3 SCH  (0-3)  

The identification and study of the elements, issues, and challenges of leading an early childhood program.

EDEC 5359  Math in Early Childhood Ed  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Development of logical thought and reasoning in young children. Developmentally appropriate activities and materials for promoting quantitative concepts.

EDEC 5369  Emergent Lit in Early Ch Educ  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Emergent literacy as simultaneous development of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Linking research findings to early childhood philosophy and integrated program implementation.

Education (EDED)

EDED 5304  Alt Cert Teachng Intrnshp  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Designed for teachers seeking certification under the alternative certification program. Provides extensive supervised experiences in a setting aligned with student?s chosen program. Prerequisite: bachelor?s degree from a regionally accredited institution, employment by a school district and criteria for admission to the alternative certification program. Course is repeated consecutively for two three-credit hour courses to meet state alternative certification requirements of six hours of internship.

EDED 5315  Classroom Dynamics  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Demonstrates the integration of two or more academic subjects into a learner-centered lesson that provides effective instruction for a diverse student population; evaluates the impact of the physical, cognitive, psychological, and social aspects of child development on creation of a classroom environment that facilitates optimum growth of the whole child.

EDED 5318  Adv Strategs and Lrng Theories  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Advanced teaching skills and strategies for experienced teachers. Verbal and nonverbal instructional strategies and positive discipline approaches.

EDED 5329  Educational Research  3 SCH  (0-3)  

Use of resources, techniques and basic skills.

EDED 5336  Adv Child/Adol Dev/Behavior  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Study of the child and adolescent in contemporary society; ethnic background, interests, attitudes, values and needs; self-concept adjustment mechanisms; learning process, social, emotional, and sexual development. Effectively working with teachers and EC-12 students.

EDED 5376  Pedagogical Methods  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Examination and implementation of developmentally appropriate instructional, assessment and management strategies and techniques with an emphasis on problem-based, inquiry-based and technology-based learning; development of extended inter- and intra- disciplinary learning experiences for all learners from K-12 utilizing appropriate TEKS, resources and materials.

English as a Second Language (EDSL)

EDSL 5320  Research Methods for Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course focuses on research methods suitable for dual language, bilingual, and ESL classrooms.

EDSL 5330  Bilingual/ESL Assessment Policies and Practices  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course is an overview of testing theories and procedures for dual language, bilingual, and ESL programs as well as a review of tests available for these programs.

EDSL 5333  Graduate Seminar on Research in Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL Education  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course focuses on reading and understanding published research on dual- language/bilingual education/ESL.

EDSL 5335  Teach Mats for Elem Sec Clrm  3 SCH  (3-0)  

The evaluation, adaptation and development of instructional materials in ESL suitable for different elementary and secondary classroom environments.

EDSL 5367  Language Acquisition and Development  3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course examines theories and research on child first, second, and bilingual language acquisition.

EDSL 5377  Teaching English as a Second Language   3 SCH  (3-0)  

This course examines theory, research, and classroom practices for teaching listening, speaking, reading, and writing of English as a second language.

Reading (EDRG)

EDRG 5314  Rdg Diagnosis & Remediation  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Identification of specific reading problems through both quantitative and qualitative examination of reading skills. Individually administered diagnostic instruments. Remediation techniques appropriate for overcoming the reading difficulty. Supervised case study work. Prerequisites: EDRG 5372.

EDRG 5332  Using Trade Books to Teach Rdg  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Evaluation, selection and use of children's books in the elementary classroom are emphasized. Special attention is given to using children's literature to teach reading in the elementary school setting.

EDRG 5348  Wkshp in Teachng the Lang Arts  3 SCH  (0-3)  

The application of methods and materials to develop the essential elements of language arts (listening, speaking, writing and language) in the elementary classroom. Emphasis on diagnosis and remediation of individual students. Attention given to state testing programs.

EDRG 5371  Foundations of Reading  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Various models of the reading process as well as the sociological, physiological, psychological and educational factors influencing reading development are presented and researched. Also included are theories of language and literacy acquisition and development.

EDRG 5372  Developmental Reading  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Topics such as reading readiness, beginning reading, word recognition and comprehension skills, needs assessment and instructional strategies.

Fee: $55.00

EDRG 5373  Improving Reading in Sec Sch  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Needs of students in secondary reading courses are examined and appropriate strategies for meeting those needs investigated. Special attention given to using adolescent literature to fulfill the state reading essential element requirements in secondary reading classes.

EDRG 5376  Sem in Spec Probs in Rdg  3 SCH  (0-3)  

A seminar investigating special topics in reading assessment, curriculum or instruction designed for reading specialists, supervisors, consultants and resource teachers. May be repeated for credit when topics change. Prerequisite: 6 hours of graduate reading courses.

EDRG 5377  Clin Practicum in Reading  3 SCH  (0-3)  

Experience in developing competency in diagnosis and remediation of reading deficiencies in clinical setting. Prerequisite: EDRG 5314 and EDRG 5372.

Special Education (EDSE)

EDSE 5304  Research in Special Educ  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Presents the principles and methodology of conducting research in special education; reviews and evaluates pertinent research studies and recent trends in the field; facilitates the preparation for a proposal for a research project.

EDSE 5313  Spec Pop Legis Litigatn Advoc  3 SCH  (3-0)  

State and federal legislation and litigation ensuring the rights of special populations for full participation in American society. Effective lifespan advocacy with and for individuals from special populations and their families. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

EDSE 5320  Special Ed Special Problems  3 SCH  (0-3)  

Study of designated areas in special education as approved by the university. May be repeated for credit when topics change. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

EDSE 5323  Curr Adapt Exc Biling Student  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Curriculum needs and program planning for culturally and linguistically diverse exceptional students. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

EDSE 5333  Bilingual Child Spec Ed  3 SCH  (3-0)  

An overview of special education issues relevant to culturally and linguistically children with disabilities. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

EDSE 5360  Accom Diverse Poplatn in Clsrm  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Introduction to the characteristics and education of exceptional learners. Emphasizes classroom practices and psychological, sociological and medical aspects of disabilities. Inclusionary practices in various educational contexts are investigated.

EDSE 5361  Ed and Psy Measrmt and Eval  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Diagnostic and instructional assessment of individuals with disabilities for collaborative education decision-making. Selection and administration of measures for comprehensive evaluation of individuals within their environments. A minimum of 15 hours of field experience is required. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

EDSE 5362  Behav Aspec Clsrm Org and Mgt  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Development of a broadened perspective on socioemotional disorders. Educational translation and synthesis of psychoeducational theoretical approaches and classroom application into the most viable alternatives to meet the educational needs of special populations. A minimum of 15 hours of field experience is required. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

EDSE 5364  Design Instr and Behav Progs  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Major program designs, curricular goals, content and instructional strategies effective with persons identified as having a range of handicapping conditions and provision of a supportive rationale for these strategies based upon current literature, research and practice. A minimum of 15 hours of field experience is required. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

EDSE 5365  Adv Practicum in Spec Educ  3 SCH  (0-3)  

Individualized field experiences providing opportunity for observation, research and intervention with persons who are handicapped. Experiences in direct and indirect service in professional settings. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360, EDSE 5361, and EDSE 5366.

EDSE 5366  Indiv Psychol and Educ Testng  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Focuses on opportunities for gaining extensive field experience in the administration of standardized individual psychological and educational batteries to children and youth, ages 3-21. Prerequisites: EDSE 5360, EDSE 5361.

Fee: $55.00

EDSE 5367  Assess Ind Severe Disabilities  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Presents a variety of assessment techniques and tools designed specifically for individuals teaching or assessing students with severe disabilities. A minimum of 15 hours of field experience is required. Prerequisites: EDSE 5360, EDSE 5361.

EDSE 5370  Id Young Chldrn with Spe Needs  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Process of identifying young children, ages birth to six, who have disabilities. Assessment strategies and techniques will be emphasized. Fifteen hours of field work are included. Prerequisites: EDSE 5360, EDSE 5361.

EDSE 5373  Development and Disability  3 SCH  (3-0)  

Emphasizes development from the prenatal period through early adulthood. Considers various theories and factors affecting human differences. Explores the cognitive, affective and psychomotor development of persons having a range of disabilities, from mild to multiple and severe. Prerequisite: EDSE 5360.

The Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education offers a Master of Arts and a Master of Science in in Bilingual Education, a Master of Science in Reading Specialization, a Master of Science in Education, a Master of Education in Early Childhood, and a Master of Education in Special Education. The programs are designed to serve the professional staff development needs of educators. Students can earn supplemental certificates valid in Texas while completing their master’s degree.

Bilingual Education, M.A. or M.S

The Master's degree in Bilingual Education is designed to promote the professional development of school personnel involved in meeting the educational needs of emergent bilinguals. The program is open to teachers, administrators, counselors, supervisors, and other professional interested in the education of language minority students. Courses are conveniently scheduled to accommodate the needs of persons working full-time. The department also offers courses leading to certification. 

Core Classes30
Foundations of Bilingual Education
Language Acquisition and Development
Bilingual/ESL Assessment Policies and Practices
Teaching English as a Second Language
Math, Science, and Social Studies in Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL Classrooms
Bilingual Child, Bicultural Environment
Research Methods for Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL
Language Arts and Reading in Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL Classrooms
Special Topics in Bilingual Ed
Graduate Seminar on Research in Dual Language, Bilingual, and ESL Education
Total Semester Credit Hours30

Early Childhood, M.Ed

​The Early Childhood Program offers a master’s degree (M.Ed.) in early childhood education. The program is designed to serve the professional development needs of educators.  

​Students are required to complete 30 hours for a masters in early childhood: Core courses (21 hours) and support field (9 hours) from Reading, Educational Administration, Special Education, etc. for the Support/Resource Area of the degree plan. 

Core Courses21
Soc and Natural Sci Studies
Foundations of Early Ch Curr
Integrated Curriculum
Creative Activities and Play
Sem Early Childhood Prog Lead
Math in Early Childhood Ed
Emergent Lit in Early Ch Educ
Support Field Elective9
Students may select these courses from the following approved support fields: EDBL, EDEC, EDED, EDAD, EDLD, EDSL, EDCG, EDIT, EDRG, STEM
TOTAL 30 Credits

Education, M.S.

The education classes serve to prepare individuals to work in all areas of education and many education related fields.

This degree provides for 12 graduate hours in education and 18 graduate hours in a field of choice. It will prepare students to teach dual enrollment courses, community college courses and/or pursue a higher degree.

Core Courses12
Select one of the following:
EDAD 5383
Computer and Internet Law
Spec Pop Legis Litigatn Advoc
Adv Child/Adol Dev/Behavior
Adv Strategs and Lrng Theories
Adv Instru Strat & Lrng Theory
Classroom Dynamics
Multimedia Design & Production
WWW Learning Environments
Prin of Instl Design & Tech
Supporting Field(s)/Resources18
Select six (6) courses from an approved master's level support field.
Total Semester Credit Hours30
M.S. Education - ACP Secondary
Core Courses12
Pedagogical Methods
Adv Child/Adol Dev/Behavior
Classroom Dynamics
Accom Diverse Poplatn in Clsrm
Education Electives6
Select two (2) courses from any approved masters leverl EDED, EDSE, EDAD, or EDRG
Supporting Field(s)/Resources12
Alt Cert Teachng Intrnshp
Course EDED 5304 is repeated consecutively for two three-credit hour courses to meet state alternative certification requirements of six hours of internship.
Teach Mats for Elem Sec Clrm
Improving Reading in Sec Sch
Developmental Reading
Total Semester Credit Hours30

Reading Specialization, M.S.

The College of Education and Human Performance is accredited as a Reading Specialist EC-12 preparation program. The M.S. Reading Specialization degree is designed to be especially useful in working with students having difficulty in learning to read. The program emphasizes building on student’s strengths and on providing program results in a Master of Science degree awarded by the university and certification as a Reading Specialist issued by the State Board for Educator Certification after passing the Reading Specialist TExES exam and upon evidence of a minimum of 2 years of creditable teaching experience.

In addition to admission to the Graduate College, individuals interested in pursuing certification for Reading Specialist EC-12 must also submit an Application for Admission to Educator Preparation-Professional Class. Applications are available via the program coordinator or by contacting the Certification Coordinator located in Rhode Hall 112. Applicants to this program must hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree.

Core Courses24
Rdg Diagnosis & Remediation
Using Trade Books to Teach Rdg
Wkshp in Teachng the Lang Arts
Foundations of Reading
Developmental Reading
Improving Reading in Sec Sch
Sem in Spec Probs in Rdg
Clin Practicum in Reading
Support Field Elective12
Student may select these courses from the following approved support fields : EDBL, EDEC, EDED, EDAD, EDSE, and EDIT
TOTAL36 Credits

Special Education, M.Ed.

A career as a special education professional is a challenging one which offers various opportunities to work with students, their families, other professionals and the community to enable students with disabilities to become a successful member of society. Special educators are in great demand nationwide and the profession offers many career options.

The 30 semester hour M.Ed. degree in special education includes a supporting field and/or combined studies which provide eligibility for certification in Texas in the following areas: Special Education Teacher, Special Education Director, Special Education Supervisor or Special Education Visiting Teacher.

M.Ed. Special Education
Core Courses21
Accom Diverse Poplatn in Clsrm
Spec Pop Legis Litigatn Advoc
Ed and Psy Measrmt and Eval
Behav Aspec Clsrm Org and Mgt
Design Instr and Behav Progs
Research in Special Educ
Development and Disability
Supporting Field (From an Approved Field)
Supporting Field Electives 19
Total Semester Credit Hours30
1

Students may select from the following approved support fields: EDBL, EDEC, EDED, EDAD, EDLD, EDSL, EDCG, EDIT, EDRG, STEM

M. Ed. Special Education with Diagnostician Certification
Core Courses21
Accom Diverse Poplatn in Clsrm
Spec Pop Legis Litigatn Advoc
Ed and Psy Measrmt and Eval
Behav Aspec Clsrm Org and Mgt
Design Instr and Behav Progs
Special Ed Special Problems
Development and Disability
Supporting Field15
Research in Special Educ
Indiv Psychol and Educ Testng
Assess Ind Severe Disabilities
Id Young Chldrn with Spe Needs
Adv Practicum in Spec Educ
Total Semester Credit Hours36

Educational Diagnostician EC-12, Certificate

The College of Education and Human Performance is accredited as an Educational Diagnostician EC-12 preparation program. Successful completion of this preparation program results in a Master of Education degree awarded by the university and certification as an Educational Diagnostician issued by the State Board for Educator Certification after passing the TExES exam and upon evidence of a minimum of 2 years of creditable teaching experience.

In addition to admission to the Graduate College, individuals interested in pursuing certification for Educational Diagnostician EC-12 must also submit an Application for Admission to Educator Preparation-Professional Class. Applications are available via program coordinator or by contacting the Certification Coordinator located in Rhode Hall 112. Applicants to this program must hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and a valid classroom teaching certificate.

Specialization in English as a Second Language (EDSL)

The Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education offers courses in English as a Second Language (ESL). The courses are designed to prepare teacher educators for leadership roles with educational institutions that serve culturally and linguistically diverse children and adults in the U.S.A. as well as global contexts (e.g., where English is a lingua franca or language for wider-communication).The Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education offers a Master of Arts and a Master of Science in in Bilingual Education, a Master of Science in Reading Specialization, a Master of Science in Education, a Master of Education in Early Childhood, and a Master of Education in Special Education. The programs are designed to serve the professional staff development needs of educators. Students can earn supplemental certificates valid in Texas while completing their master’s degree.The Early Childhood Program offers a master’s degree (M.Ed.) in early childhood education. The program is designed to serve the professional development needs of educators.

Students are required to complete 30 hours for a masters in early childhood: Core courses (21 hours) and support field (9 hours) from Reading, Educational Administration, Special Education, etc. for the Support/Resource Area of the degree plan.

Planned Course Offerings

This section provides a comprehensive list of graduate courses offered by the Department of Teacher and Bilingual Education, along with a two-year schedule indicating when each course is expected to be available. Please note that course offerings and scheduling are subject to change based on faculty availability and student demand. To ensure steady progress toward degree completion, students are strongly encouraged to work closely with their advisor to develop a personalized academic plan.

Bilingual Education (EDBL)

Course Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027
EDBL 5338 X   X  
EDBL 5358   X   X
EDBL 5386 1        
EDBL 5387   X   X
EDBL 5389 X X X X

This course is available during the summer term only.


Early Childhood (EDEC)

Course Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027
EDEC 5316 X   X  
EDEC 5333 1        
EDEC 5335 1        
EDEC 5349 1        
EDEC 5351 1        
EDEC 5352   X   X
EDEC 5359 X   X  
EDEC 5369   X   X

This course is available during the summer term only.


Education (EDED)

Course Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027
EDED 5304 X X X X
EDED 5315   X   X
EDED 5318 X X X X
EDED 5329 X X X X
EDED 5336 1        
EDED 5376 X X X X

This course is available during the summer term only.


English as a Second Language (EDSL)

Course Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027
EDSL 5320 X   X  
EDSL 5330 X X X X
EDSL 5333 X X X X
EDSL 5335 X X X X
EDSL 5367 X   X  
EDSL 5377   X   X

Reading (EDRG)

Course Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027
EDRG 5314   X   X
EDRG 5332 X   X  
EDRG 5348 1        
EDRG 5371   X   X
EDRG 5372 X   X  
EDRG 5373 1        
EDRG 5376 1        
EDRG 5377 X   X  

This course is available during the summer term only.


Special Education (EDSE)

Course Fall 2025 Spring 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027
EDSE 5304 1        
EDSE 5313   X   X
EDSE 5320 1        
EDSE 5360 X X X X
EDSE 5361   X   X
EDSE 5362 X   X  
EDSE 5364 X   X  
EDSE 5365 X X X X
EDSE 5366 X   X  
EDSE 5367   X   X
EDSE 5370 X   X  
EDSE 5373 1        

This course is available during the summer term only.

Marketable Skills

Texas A&M University-Kingsville is dedicated to equipping graduate and doctoral students with the advanced marketable skills necessary for professional and academic excellence beyond the university setting. These skills encompass a range of high-level interpersonal, analytical, and applied competencies that are sought after in today’s competitive workforce.

Our graduate programs are structured to cultivate these capabilities through rigorous academic inquiry, experiential learning, faculty-mentored research, professional internships, and opportunities for scholarly and community engagement.

Below are the marketable skills cultivated through each of the department's graduate academic programs.

Bilingual Education, M.A., M.S.

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Professional communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Digital technology and innovation
  • Advocacy for bilingual and multilingual populations

Early Childhood, M.Ed.

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Effective communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Digital technology and innovation
  • Advocacy for young children

Education, M.S.

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Professional communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Digital technology and innovation
  • Pedagogical knowledge and application

Reading Specialization, M.S.

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Professional communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Digital technology and innovation
  • Pedagogical knowledge and application

Special Education, M.Ed.

  • Critical thinking, analytical thinking, and problem-solving
  • Demonstrate advanced disability-specific knowledge and understand how a teacher must accommodate the specific learning styles of all students within the classroom
  • Advanced ability to accommodate, modify, and differentiate student-specific content material and offer high levels of expectations for achievement
  • Demonstrate an advanced understanding of task analysis, direct instruction, explicit instruction, and setting objectives to meet that requirement
  • Demonstrate an advanced understanding of how to structure the classroom to meet the individual needs of all students, including the physical arrangement of the room, and the need for routines and procedures of a well-run classroom
  • Effective writing appropriate for the teaching profession
  • Attention to detail
  • Interpersonal relational skills
  • Adaptability and enthusiasm
  • Research skills