University of Wisconsin–Madison

Overview

The Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Secondary English Education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring English educators. This program combines academic coursework with structured fieldwork, equipping graduates with the necessary skills to excel in diverse educational environments, including support for English language learners (ELLs) in PK–12 settings.

What you'll study

Programme Structure: The program is typically structured over two summers, with an intervening academic year. It integrates graduate-level coursework with essential fieldwork experiences, culminating in a master’s project that synthesizes your learning.

Core Coursework:

• Problems in Educational Policy
• Educating Linguistically and Culturally Diverse Learners
• Linguistics for Educators
• Community-Based Practicum
• Inclusive Education in Secondary Schools

Fieldwork & Practicum: Students engage in supervised practicum experiences tied to their coursework, providing opportunities to observe, plan, and reflect on instructional practices for secondary learners and multilingual/ELL students.

Capstone / Master’s Project: The program culminates in a master’s project that integrates coursework and fieldwork, allowing students to address a specific educational challenge or develop an instructional improvement plan aligned with licensure readiness.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet the graduate admission standards set by the University of Wisconsin–Madison and demonstrate preparedness for graduate-level coursework in education and linguistics. English proficiency is also required, with accepted tests typically including:

• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 92 (or equivalent scores from Duolingo/IELTS)
• Duolingo English Test: minimum score of 125
• IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 7.0

Some applicants may be admitted with additional conditions, which may require an on-arrival English assessment and/or an ESL course during their first semester, contingent upon program approval.

Career prospects

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers as secondary English educators, with a strong emphasis on working with diverse student populations, including ELLs. The skills and knowledge gained through the program will equip you to address the evolving challenges in education, making you a valuable asset in various educational settings.