Best Online Master's in Multilingual Learner Education for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online master's in multilingual learner education degree?

An online master’s in multilingual learner education helps educators build skills to support students from diverse language backgrounds. The flexible format fits around teaching schedules and other professional commitments.

Typical coursework covers:

• Second language acquisition
• Culturally responsive teaching
• Assessment methods for English learners
• Instructional strategies for bilingual or dual-language settings

Programs often include:

• Practicum or fieldwork in your local school or community
• Asynchronous classes for flexible scheduling
• Real-time application of strategies in your current role
• Collaboration with peers across regions

Some programs also offer specializations in TESOL, bilingual education, or equity-focused instruction aligned with licensure goals.

Where can I work with an online master's in multilingual learner education degree?

With an online master’s in multilingual learner education, you can work in a variety of educational and language-focused settings that support linguistically diverse communities.

Common career paths include:

• K–12 Schools: Teach as ESL, bilingual, or dual-language instructors supporting language-diverse students.
• Adult Education Centers: Instruct English as a second language to adult learners and newcomers.
• Colleges and Universities: Serve as instructors or coordinate language learning programs.
• School District Offices: Work as ELL program coordinators, instructional coaches, or policy advisors.
• Curriculum and Education Firms: Develop language and literacy programs for multilingual learners.
• Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Provide language instruction, advocacy, or family support services.
• Education Policy and Advocacy Groups: Influence legislation and equity-focused programs for multilingual populations.

The degree also supports transitions into educational leadership and teacher training roles.

How much can I make with an online master's in multilingual learner education degree?

A master’s degree in multilingual learner education can increase your earning potential and open doors to leadership roles. Salaries vary based on job type, experience, and setting.

Here is a closer look at the earnings for adult basic and secondary education and ESL teachers:

• Median annual wage: $59,950
• Lowest 10%: Under $39,750
• Highest 10%: Over $95,750

Here are the median wages for adult basic and secondary education and ESL teachers by industry:

• Local junior colleges: $61,430
• Local K–12 schools: $61,280
• State junior colleges: $55,910
• Private educational services: $51,010

List of Online Counselor Education Degree Programs for 2025

1. Stonehill College

Stonehill College offers an online M.Ed. in Bilingual Education that equips educators to support linguistically diverse learners through culturally responsive instruction, advocacy, and leadership in dual-language and multilingual settings.

Courses include second language acquisition, language assessment, literacy development, and instructional strategies. Graduates are prepared for roles as bilingual educators, specialists, or advocates, promoting equity in diverse educational environments.

• Program Length: One to two years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Bilingual Education
• Cost per Credit Hour: $763
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online MA in Education with a concentration in Educating Multilingual Learners, designed to enhance your skills in language acquisition, inclusive pedagogy, and multilingual learner advocacy.

Courses include research and evaluation, bi/multilingual development, sustaining pedagogy, and language policy. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles supporting linguistically diverse communities in schools, districts, or policy-focused organizations.

• Program Length: 18 to 24 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Educating Multilingual Learners
• Cost per Credit Hour: $676
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. UNC Extended Campus

University of Northern Colorado offers an online M.A. in Multilingual Education (TESOL) that builds your skills in second language acquisition, curriculum development, and culturally responsive teaching for multilingual learning environments.

Courses include second language theory, ESL methods, academic literacy, multilingual seminars, and graduate research. Graduates are equipped for K–12, adult ESL, higher education, assessment roles, or doctoral pathways.

• Program Length: 30 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: TESOL
• Cost per Credit Hour: $668
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: HLC

4. San Jose State University

San José State University offers an online MA in Multilingual and Multicultural Literacy Education that strengthens your skills in culturally sustaining literacy, language equity, and inclusive instruction aligned with California’s reading and dyslexia standards.

Courses include phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, language policy, and critical pedagogy. Graduates are prepared for roles as reading specialists, literacy leaders, or advocates in multilingual and underserved educational communities.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Multilingual and Multicultural Literacy Education
• Cost per Credit Hour: $660
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WSCUC)

5. College of Charleston

College of Charleston offers an online M.A.T. in Multilingual Learner Education designed for non-education majors seeking licensure, emphasizing bilingual pedagogy, second language acquisition, and inclusive literacy practices for diverse classrooms.

Courses include educational foundations, linguistics, ESOL methods, literacy for multilingual learners, assessment, and cultural diversity. Graduates are prepared for K–12 licensure and roles supporting multilingual students in South Carolina and beyond.

• Program Length: One and a half to two years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Multilingual Learner Education
• Cost per Credit Hour: $533
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 to 33
• Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers an online M.Ed. with a Bilingual/Bi-Cultural concentration that empowers educators to lead inclusive classrooms grounded in equity, language development, and culturally responsive teaching.

Courses explore bilingual methods, dual language instruction, language policy, and family engagement. Graduates are prepared for roles supporting multilingual learners as teachers, specialists, or coordinators in diverse K–12 and community settings.

• Program Length: 18 to 24 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Bilingual/Bi‑Cultural concentration 
• Cost per Credit Hour: $538
• Required Credits to Graduate: 32
• Accreditation: HLC

7. Arizona State University (Fulton)

Arizona State University (Fulton) offers an online MA in Education with a concentration in Educating Multilingual Learners, crafted to strengthen your expertise in language acquisition, inclusive literacy methodology, and multilingual policy advocacy within diverse learning contexts.

Courses include research and evaluation in education, bilingual acquisition & development, sustaining pedagogy, and language policy. Outcomes include readiness for leadership, curriculum design, advocacy, and instructional roles supporting multilingual learners in schools, districts, or community organizations.

• Program Length: 12 to 15 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Educating Multilingual Learners
• Cost per Credit Hour: $676
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: HLC

8. Texas A&M

Texas A&M offers an online M.Ed. in Bilingual/ESL Education designed to deepen your expertise in bilingual pedagogy, biliteracy development, and culturally responsive instruction for diverse educational settings. Graduates become instructional leaders for multilingual learner populations. 

Key courses include Bilingual Oral Language Assessment, ESL Methodologies, Dual Language Teaching Strategies, Reading & Language Arts in bilingual settings, and Field Practicum. Graduates are ready for roles in curriculum development, leadership, teaching, and community advocacy.

• Program Length: 12 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Bilingual/ESL Education
• Cost per Credit Hour: $367
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Accreditation: Texas State Board for Educator Certification

9. Kansas State University

Kansas State University delivers an online M.S. in Curriculum & Instruction with an English as a Second Language concentration, advancing your expertise in bilingual methodology, culturally responsive teaching, and linguistically diverse classroom strategies. 

Courses include ESL/Dual-Language Methods, Linguistics, Culture & Language in Practice, Assessment, and Practicum. Grounded in the CLASSIC model, graduates are prepared for ESL endorsement roles, curriculum leadership, or instructional coaching in multilingual educational settings.

• Program Length: 16 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: ESL concentration
• Cost per Credit Hour: $536
• Required Credits to Graduate: 31
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Indiana University–Bloomington

Indiana University–Bloomington’s online M.S.Ed. in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education develops your expertise in literacy theory, language policy, and culturally informed pedagogy. You’ll learn to support diverse learners across formal and informal educational contexts. 

Courses include Instructional Issues in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education, Capstone, inquiry and leadership studies, and electives like language policy, mentoring, CALL, reading methodologies, and TESOL techniques. Graduates are equipped for teaching, curriculum writing, or specialist roles.

• Program Length: One to two years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Literacy, Culture & Language Education
• Cost per Credit Hour: $539.36
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Accreditation: HLC

How long does it take to complete an online master's in multilingual learner education program?

Most online master’s in multilingual learner education programs take one and a half to two years to finish, with part-time options extending up to three years, especially among the most affordable online master's in multilingual learner education options, which offer flexible, asynchronous, or hybrid formats ideal for working professionals.

While 69.7% of ESL teachers hold a bachelor's degree, 19.5% pursue a master’s, often to advance or specialize. Accelerated tracks can shorten completion to 12 to 15 months, depending on credits, load, and practicum requirements.

The chart below from Zippia shows the most common ESL teacher degrees.

How does an online master's in multilingual learner education compare to an on-campus program?

Online master's in multilingual learner education programs offer the same academic depth and curriculum as traditional on-campus formats, with digital tools enabling collaboration despite the physical distance. The primary difference lies in how content is delivered and the extent of face-to-face interaction.

Similarly, students pursuing a Christian studies online degree can access rigorous coursework and interactive learning experiences without being on campus, benefiting from the same flexibility and quality as traditional programs.

These programs provide much-needed flexibility for working educators and career changers, often incorporating optional in-person residencies or local practicums to simulate campus-based experiences. With a projected global need for 44 million more teachers by 2030 to achieve universal education, online pathways are playing a critical role in expanding access to advanced teacher training.

What is the average cost of an online master's in multilingual learner education program?

Costs vary widely by institution and residency status. Average tuition ranges from $367 to $763 per credit. A 30 to 36 credit program may cost between $13,500 and $30,000 total, excluding fees and materials. For students comparing options, online EDS programs in leadership often follow similar pricing structures, though some specialized leadership-focused programs may have slightly higher tuition.

Public universities often offer lower tuition for in-state students. Some programs charge flat online rates regardless of location. Private institutions may have higher tuition but offer more scholarship aid.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online master's in multilingual learner education program?

Graduate students pursuing multilingual learner education can access several funding options to reduce out-of-pocket costs. These include federal aid, scholarships, grants, employer support, and loan forgiveness programs.

• FAFSA: Students can apply for federal financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
• Institutional Aid: Many universities offer scholarships, assistantships, or diversity-based funding.
• State Grants: Some states provide grants for teachers earning ESL or bilingual endorsements, including support for those enrolled in the shortest ESL graduate certificate programs online to quickly meet certification needs.
• Employer Reimbursement: Educators may qualify for tuition reimbursement through their school or district.
• TEACH Grants: Available to students planning to teach in high-need fields at low-income schools.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Eligible for those working in qualifying K–12 public service positions.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online master's in multilingual learner education program?

Admission requirements vary, but most online master's in multilingual learner education programs seek candidates with academic readiness and a commitment to multilingual education. Some welcome non-education majors planning to earn teaching credentials during the program.

• Bachelor’s Degree: Usually required in education or a related field; some programs accept any undergraduate degree.
• GPA Minimum: Typically 2.75 or higher is expected.
• Teaching Experience: Teaching experience is preferred or required for some programs, especially for non-education majors enrolling in a fast-track online master's in adult education, where practical experience supports accelerated learning and instructional effectiveness..
• Basic Skills Test: Some licensure tracks or state regulations require a basic skills test. Key areas to strengthen include working with young learners (44.03%) and using classroom tools like whiteboards (19.54%).
• Additional Materials: Some universities may require applicants to provide letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.

This chart from Zippia details the specific ESL teacher skills to develop for online master's in multilingual learner education program graduates. 

What courses are typically in an online master's in multilingual learner education program?

Most online master's in multilingual learner education programs blend foundational coursework with applied learning to prepare educators for multilingual and multicultural classrooms, an essential skill set as English learners (ELs) now make up 10.6% of public school students in the U.S.

Coursework aligns with national or state standards like TESOL and bilingual education frameworks.

• Linguistics: Understand language structure and how it influences communication, literacy, and learning across multilingual populations.
• Second Language Acquisition: Study theories and research on how students acquire a second language in academic and social contexts.
• Bilingual Literacy: Learn instructional methods for developing reading and writing skills in both English and students’ home languages.
• Pedagogy: Explore inclusive, culturally responsive teaching practices that support language development and academic success.
• Assessment: Gain skills in evaluating student language proficiency and academic achievement using appropriate, equitable tools.

In addition to these core areas, students can typically choose electives in curriculum development, language policy, instructional design, or education leadership. This will allow them to tailor the program to their goals and classroom needs.

What types of specializations are available in online master's in multilingual learner education programs?

Online master's programs in multilingual learner education often allow students to concentrate in areas aligned with their teaching goals. Specializations help deepen your expertise and may lead to certification or endorsements. Similarly, students exploring online biotechnology graduate certificate programs can expect focused tracks that target specific skills and career pathways in their field.

• Bilingual Education: Focuses on instruction in two languages, emphasizing academic content and language development for bilingual students in dual-language or transitional programs.
• TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages): Prepares educators to teach English language learners using research-based strategies in U.S. or international settings, from beginner to advanced language levels.
• Dual Language Immersion: Trains teachers to implement bilingual programs where instruction is delivered in both English and a partner language, supporting biliteracy and cross-cultural skills.
• Multicultural Education: Explores inclusive teaching practices that value cultural diversity, reduce bias, and foster equity for multilingual learners across different backgrounds.
• Literacy and Language Development: Emphasizes reading and language instruction techniques to support multilingual learners’ academic growth through targeted literacy interventions and differentiated instruction.
• Educational Equity and Inclusion: Focuses on dismantling barriers in education by promoting access, representation, and fairness for multilingual and historically underserved student populations.
• ESL K–12 Licensure Preparation: Aligns coursework with licensure requirements, providing content and practicum experiences needed to become certified to teach English as a Second Language in public schools.
• Heritage Language Instruction: Supports educators in teaching students who speak a non-dominant language at home, promoting language retention, cultural identity, and academic development.

Choosing a specialization allows you to align your studies with your passion, meet licensure needs, or prepare for leadership roles in multilingual learner education. Similarly, programs like a fast-track master's in teacher leadership online can accelerate your path toward managerial roles in the education sector.

How to choose the best online master's in multilingual learner education program?

Selecting the right program involves more than convenience; it’s about finding a school that aligns with your professional goals and teaching values. Look for programs that combine academic rigor, flexibility, and strong support systems. Just as a cyber security online bootcamp requires careful evaluation of curriculum, instructors, and hands-on practice, choosing an online master's in multilingual learner education demands attention to similar quality indicators.

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized regional or national bodies, validating its quality and helping meet licensure and employment standards across different states or countries.
• Faculty Expertise: Review faculty backgrounds to see if instructors have real-world teaching experience and academic research in multilingual education, TESOL, or bilingual instruction.
• Curriculum Design: Choose a curriculum that integrates language acquisition, culturally responsive practices, assessment, and classroom management, all aligned with national teaching standards and multilingual education frameworks.
• State Licensure Alignment: Make sure the program’s coursework and practicum meet your state’s requirements for ESL, bilingual, or TESOL certification or endorsements.
• Flexible Learning Format: Online programs should offer asynchronous or hybrid options that fit your schedule, especially if you’re balancing work, family, or relocation limitations.
• Student Support Services: Look for advising, tutoring, mentoring, and tech support. These services improve the online experience and help you stay on track toward graduation.
• Practicum Placement Support: Programs with strong school partnerships or placement assistance can ensure relevant, local, or virtual practicum opportunities that meet licensure requirements.
• Tuition and Affordability: Compare tuition rates across programs. Consider whether in-state tuition, military discounts, or affordable credit-per-hour options apply to you.
• Scholarship and Financial Aid Options: Explore fellowships, grants, and graduate assistantships. Many programs offer dedicated aid for teachers or those working with underserved student populations.
• Program Reputation: Research rankings, alumni reviews, and graduate outcomes. A strong reputation can signal quality instruction, networking opportunities, and employer recognition.
• Emphasis on Inclusive Pedagogy: Select a program that prepares you to teach with equity, inclusion, and cultural competency. This is essential for working with multilingual and diverse learners.

What career paths are available for graduates of online master's in multilingual learner education programs?

An online master's in multilingual learner education opens diverse professional doors in both classroom and non-classroom settings. Graduates are equipped to influence learning outcomes, policy, and instructional quality across varied educational spaces.

• ESL or Bilingual Classroom Teaching (K–12): Work directly in public or private schools teaching English learners, delivering standards-based content while supporting language development and cultural integration across elementary, middle, or high school settings.
• Adult ESL Instruction: Teach English to adult learners in community colleges, literacy centers, or workplace programs, ideal for graduates of the fastest online master's in adult education programs focused on practical, career-ready teaching pathways.
• Curriculum Development: Design culturally responsive, linguistically appropriate curricula and instructional materials for ESL, bilingual, or dual-language programs at the district, state, or educational publishing levels.
• Instructional Coaching: Support and mentor classroom teachers by modeling effective strategies for multilingual learners, analyzing data, and delivering professional development on language acquisition and inclusive instruction.
• ELL Program Coordination: Oversee district-wide English Language Learner programs, including compliance, teacher support, student placement, curriculum alignment, and communication with families and community stakeholders.
• Higher Education Instruction: Teach education courses at colleges and universities focused on TESOL, multicultural education, or bilingual pedagogy, often paired with research responsibilities and curriculum design.
• Educational Policy and Advocacy: Influence language education policy by working with government agencies, nonprofits, or think tanks to advocate for equitable access, funding, and culturally sustaining practices.
• Community-Based Language Services: Coordinate or teach in nonprofit organizations offering language classes, refugee support, or family literacy programs designed to serve multilingual and immigrant communities.
• Educational Leadership: With additional licensure or certifications, take on leadership roles such as principal, department head, or district administrator, focused on supporting language learners and inclusion.
• Teacher Training and Professional Development: Deliver workshops or courses for in-service teachers on language development, instructional equity, and inclusive classroom strategies in schools or training institutions.

Is accreditation impacting program quality and career outcomes?

Accreditation serves as a benchmark for educational quality and institutional credibility, directly influencing both academic rigor and career advancement. Evaluating whether a program is accredited by a recognized body ensures that the curriculum satisfies industry standards and state licensure requirements. This distinction also plays a key role in employer perceptions and potential salary outcomes. Additionally, well-accredited programs often support smoother transitions into advanced studies. For those interested in further academic progression, consider exploring the fastest online EdD degree programs as a pathway to leadership roles in education.

What is the job market for graduates with an online master's in multilingual learner education?

Demand for multilingual education professionals remains strong, especially in urban and rural districts facing shortages. Earning an accelerated elementary education degree online can be a strategic way to enter these high-need classrooms quickly before taking up specializations such as multilingual learner education. The U.S. Department of Education continues to list ESL and bilingual educators as high-need roles across many states.

While employment for adult ESL teachers may decline by 13% from 2023 to 2033, about 4,100 openings are projected annually due to workforce turnover. Graduates with specialized training remain well-positioned for advancement in K–12 schools, adult learning centers, and global education.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Master's in Multilingual Learner Education Degree Programs

Other Things You Should Know About the Best Online Master's in Multilingual Learner Education Programs

Will this degree help me transition into education policy or leadership?

Yes, many programs offer courses in leadership, advocacy, and policy. These can help you move into roles that shape multilingual education programs, district policies, or community initiatives.

Are there programs focused on refugee or immigrant education?

Yes, some programs offer specializations or electives focused on refugee, immigrant, and newcomer education. These cover trauma-informed practices, culturally responsive support, and community engagement strategies.

How do equity-focused tracks differ from traditional ones?

Equity-focused tracks emphasize social justice, culturally responsive pedagogy, and systemic change. They prepare educators to address opportunity gaps and advocate for inclusive learning environments beyond language instruction.

Can practicum be waived if I already teach multilingual learners?

Some programs allow practicum waivers or substitutions for licensed educators with relevant classroom experience. You’ll need to provide documentation and meet specific program requirements.