This 30-credit program is designed certified, experienced classroom teachers looking to gain a strong foundation in curriculum and instruction of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) populations. This program provides candidates with a strong foundation in literacy curriculum, instruction, and assessment at the PK-12 levels.

In this program, you will prepare to not only meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse students, including English language learners, but also to assume leadership positions within your school as ESOL teachers. This program is designed for the certified teacher who wishes to be certified by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) as an ESOL teacher based on and aligned to the standards outlined by the TESOL International Association. If you want to be certified in a state or district other than Maryland as an ESOL teacher, you will need to contact your state or district to determine edibility steps.

Candidates should complete the six courses in the literacy core before proceeding to the CLD Track.  Courses within the core and the clinical block may be taken in any order unless otherwise stated.

As courses are only offered in hybrid and/or online formats, students must have access to a device (such as a tablet or computer) that includes both internet connectivity and audio/video capability. High-speed internet connectivity access is also required.

In addition to passing all courses with a satisfactory grade, as a graduation requirement, candidates must take and earn a score of 163 or higher on the Praxis II: English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) #5362 during the CLD Track in order to graduate. For May graduates, candidates are responsible for providing Loyola official Praxis II ESOL exam scores by April 15. Similarly, January graduates are responsible for providing Loyola official Praxis II exam scores by December 15. September graduates are responsible for providing Loyola official Praxis exam scores by August 15.

Candidates must submit an electronic application for graduation to the Records Office the first week of their final semester.