Alert: The Plaza Building will remain closed through Jan. 20, 2025.

Learn More

Master of Arts in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education

School of Education & Human Development

Overview

Degree: MA

Classroom Type: Online and on campus classes

Develops the knowledge, leadership skills, and classroom practices that support multilingual learners and their families. Graduates help meet the increasing need for knowledge and skills to design effective practices to serve the number of children who speak and learn in multiple languages.

Application​ deadlines


Rolling Admission

Program Details

Interest Categories: Cultural Diversity & Global Perspectives Education & Counseling

Campus: CU Denver

What you’ll learn

If you feel passionate about elevating bilingualism and inclusivity in your classroom and championing the strengths and assets of children who speak and are learning multiple languages, University of Colorado Denver’s MA in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education is the perfect option for you. This transformational, practice-oriented program for elementary and secondary teachers will develop your knowledge and ability to design classroom practices to support bilingual learners and their families and the leadership skills to advocate for change in schools.

Join a degree program that is a perfect steppingstone to teacher leader and administrative positions. We prepare highly competent professionals through high quality curriculum and hands-on projects that are relevant, empowering, applicable, student centered, challenging and focused on social justice. Our faculty members help you open the doors to your dream position in education. They will change how you practice teaching by giving you a new understanding of the challenges and opportunities experienced by your students. You will learn to reflect on culture, how changing times and changing demographics impact teaching practices, and to identify and create the classroom resources you need. Our alumni are systems change advocates trained to support inclusion of multiple languages in classrooms.

Personalized Professional Master’s Degree™

The MA is part of CU Denver’s Personalized Professional Master’s Degree™. Deepen your expertise in culturally and linguistically diverse education and have the opportunity to personalize your learning with a choice of courses.

The School of Education & Human Development is regularly ranked as a top graduate school and “best online” experiences by U.S. News & World Report.

This MA option does not include licensure or an endorsement.

Choose CU Denver's School of Education & Human Development

The School of Education & Human Development at the University of Colorado Denver attracts students who are passionate about elevating the status of bilingualism and inclusivity in classrooms. We match their passion with an education that is rooted in diversity, technology, proven approaches and real-world practice. That’s why our graduates are prepared to make immediate and life-long impacts on people, communities and the world.

Sample Courses

  • CLDE 5010 - Foundations of Language & Culture in Education 3 credits
  • CLDE 5030 - Language Development of Multilingual Learners: Advanced 3 credits
  • CLDE 5820 - Teaching Multiilingual Learners, Advanced 3 credits
  • CLDE 5050 - Assessment & Advocacy for Multilingual Learners 3 credits
Course Catalog

Recommended Completion Time:2 to 3 years

Required Credits for Completion:30

Admission Requirements


Application Deadlines

We practice "rolling admission" and after your application is complete, we strive to notify you of your admission status in no more than two to three weeks. The CLDE program only admits for summer and fall semesters.

The following deadlines are firm, early submissions are encouraged.

Fall Semester: June 30

Summer Semester: April 30

Application Requirements

  • 2 recommendation letters
  • Official Transcripts from all institutions attended
  • If applying for an endorsement, proof of teaching license or special services license is required
  • Resume/CV
  • Written Statement: Describe your interest in the program, your special strengths, and the goals you hope to achieve through your work in the program
  • $50.00 application fee
  • International Applicants only: Proof of English Language Proficiency (International applicants should review the following information regarding English language proficiency)
  • Admissions Interview: An interview may be required as part of the admissions process. If so, applicants will be contacted with more details.

For more information, email education@ucdenver.edu or call 303-315-6300.

Additional Information


We welcome applications from motivated individuals who have bachelor's degrees and access to working with English language learners.

CMS Login