University of South Florida

Overview

The Exceptional Student Education (ESE) – ESOL and Reading Endorsement program at the University of South Florida equips aspiring educators with the skills necessary to support K–12 students with diverse academic and language needs. This comprehensive program integrates coursework with structured field experiences, culminating in an action research project focused on enhancing instructional practices and improving student outcomes.

What you'll study

How you’ll study

• Experience a hybrid cohort delivery model that combines online coursework with practical, field-based learning each semester.
• Engage in progressively designed practicum experiences that build teaching readiness over the duration of the program.

Core coursework includes:

• Practicum in Exceptional Teacher Candidate Education
• Child Development within a School Context
• Learning within a School Context
• Enhancing Children’s Learning and Development within a School Context
• Schools and Society
• Measurement for Teachers

Endorsement and culminating requirement:

• Focus on ESOL and reading instructional strategies that utilize evidence-based approaches for supporting reading development and English learners.
• Complete an Action Research Project as the final academic requirement.

Note: The specific sequence of modules and elective options may vary by cohort and advising plan. Your academic advisor will assist in confirming your semester-by-semester schedule.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to have a minimum GPA of 2.8 for admission into the program. Additionally, international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized testing.

• SAT: Reading and Writing ≥ 490
• ACT: English ≥ 17, Reading ≥ 19
• CLT: Verbal Reasoning and Writing ≥ 38

Career prospects

Graduates of the Exceptional Student Education program with an ESOL and Reading Endorsement will be well-prepared to pursue careers in various educational settings. Potential career paths include roles as special education teachers, ESOL instructors, educational consultants, and reading specialists, among others. The program's emphasis on inclusive education and evidence-based strategies ensures that graduates are equipped to meet the diverse needs of K–12 learners effectively.