Our English as a Second Language (ESL) and Bilingual Education program equips educators with the knowledge and strategies to support multilingual learners. By earning a bilingual and/or ESL endorsement, you will gain expertise in language acquisition, differentiated instruction, and culturally responsive practices. These tools and skills can open doors to new career opportunities and empower you to create inclusive classrooms where every student thrives.
Earn an ESL and/or Bilingual endorsement (if eligible) by completing just six courses. This flexible, all-online option is available to undergraduate, graduate, and non-degree-seeking students (Graduate Certificate) and can be added to any Professional Educator License (PEL).
Graduate students can receive a graduate certificate in English as a Second Language by applying as a non-degree seeking student or adding it to their current program of study. Please contact your advisor for more information.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand linguistics and language acquisition theories.
- Develop skills in culturally responsive teaching.
- Master instructional strategies for English language learners.
Accreditation
Calendar
Don't miss an important date or deadline
Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar
Tuition & Aid
UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.
Value of a UIS Degree
UIS is in the Top 20 for students graduating with the least amount of debt, Midwest Region (2026).
Top 25 best value school (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026).
The average graduate from UIS will see an increase in earnings of $31,700 - $69,000 each year compared to someone with a high school diploma working in Illinois.
Admissions
Applying to UIS is simple
We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.
Review admission requirements
No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.
International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.
Complete your application
An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.
Send your official transcripts
Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.
Submit required statements/writing sample
If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on you're application status page.
Pay your application fee
You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.
Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;
International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.
Courses & Catalog Information
At the University of Illinois Springfield, you'll find a wide range of courses tailored to your interests and career goals. Explore your program details and get all the essential information you need to plan your future.
Career Opportunities
Exploring the following career paths can help you see how your degree opens up a wide range of exciting and rewarding opportunities in various fields.
- ESL Teacher
- Bilingual Education Specialist
- Language Program Coordinator
- TESL Trainer
