Student teacher, Cristian Aguilar, helping a student with classwork.
Accelerated Degree

English Secondary Education with Master's

English Secondary Licensure with MA in Education

Part of: Education Department, Communication Arts, Language & Literature Department, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Accelerated Degree, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor to Master of Arts in Education

Undergrad Pathway: English

Licensure: Secondary Licensure

Part of: Education Department, Communication Arts, Language & Literature Department, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Accelerated Degree, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor to Master of Arts in Education

Undergrad Pathway: English

Licensure: Secondary Licensure

Classroom-ready in less time.

This accelerated program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Arts in Education within five years. The program is designed to provide a streamlined path to teacher licensure and advanced educational training.

Years 1–3: Undergraduate Studies

Students focus on completing core academic and disciplinary coursework, along with general education requirements and electives. These foundational years also include experiential learning opportunities and skill development within the student’s chosen field of study.

Year 4: Licensure Preparation

In the fourth year, students transition into education-specific coursework and begin a clinical residency. This hands-on experience involves collaborative teaching in real classroom environments, helping students apply educational theory and meet the requirements for initial teacher licensure in Colorado.

Year 5: Graduate Studies

The final year centers on advanced coursework in education, culminating in a Master of Arts in Education. Students may choose from several emphasis areas—such as Teacher Leadership, K–12 Online Teacher Leadership, or Reading Leadership—to deepen their knowledge and enhance career opportunities.

English Secondary Education with Master's Requirements

Accelerated Degree
Licensure

Accelerated Degree programs let students earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time. After an accelerated undergraduate study, students begin graduate courses, saving time and money. This fast-track option builds skills and experience, helping students start their careers sooner.

A licensure complements a degree and is awarded by entities other than Western. Often awarded by the state for teaching, it is a public and professional assurance that state teaching standards are met and the student is prepared to teach.

After Undergraduate Core Classes

After you have completed the undergraduate portion of your coursework, you apply for the teaching placement and the graduate program. Learn more about application requirements, scholarships, and more.

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado University Foundation offers scholarships for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

General Western Scholarships

The Western Colorado University Foundation offers scholarships for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

Department News

Education Department

Contact Information

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Crawford Hall 101
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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