Charles Merritt, Ed.D.
Clinical Associate Professor, Education
Coordinator of Bilingual Authorization
Students are able to earn the Bilingual Authorization concurrently with a multiple subjects or single subject credential or added on to a valid CA teaching credential. You will be challenged academically and professionally through classroom and field experiences to assist students in developing high levels of proficiency in both Spanish and English.
This program will provide you with experiences and knowledge to teach in dual language settings, to teach high levels of academic literacy and various content areas in Spanish. You’ll be able to increase your awareness of and your ability to address the linguistic and learning needs of the students in your classroom.
Program Highlights
- Emphasis on application of theory to practice
- Field work experience in bilingual classroom
- Graduates are sought out by top districts seeking bilingual teachers
- Courses are offered face-to-face or in a blended format
Faculty
Catalog
Overview
The Division of Teacher Education offers the California Bilingual Added Authorization to both qualified current credential students and qualified post-credential teachers returning to add to their teaching certification. The FPU Bilingual Authorization will require an additional 6 units of coursework for Multiple Subjects and Single Subject credential students seeking the authorization concurrently with their credential, and an additional 14 units for post-credential teachers. Currently, FPU will offer the Bilingual Added Authorization in Spanish. The focus of the program will be preparation to teach in dual language or bilingual settings at both the elementary and secondary levels.
Locations Offered
Online
Required Courses (14 Units)- EDUC 606 - Bilingualism & Bilingual Education in The U.S. Credits 3
- EDUC 607 - Aspectos Del Bilinguismo/Bilingualism in Context Credits 3
- EDUC 650 - Principles & Practices of Biliteracy Development Credits 4
- EDUC 651 - Methods of Bilingual/Multilingual Education Credits 4 or
- EDUC 653 - Bilingual Reading & Writing for Secondary Classrooms Credits 4
Possibilities Await
With an FPU Education
The decision to embark on graduate studies is a big one. Our 40+ graduate programs will equip you to succeed in your career and in your life. You’ll become part of a small community of learners, thrive in a flexible learning environment and be challenged by a rigorous curriculum. Learn how much further you can go at FPU!
For more information, contact the campus nearest you, attend an information meeting or ask about a program.
First Steps to Admission
- Apply online
- Submit 2 reference forms (Varies based on program of interest)
These can be filled out by academic or professional acquaintances familiar with your ability to complete graduate-level work. Print the reference form. - Include statement of intent.
You can also provide an addendum explaining your interest in the program, any long-term goals and your experience in the field. - Request official transcripts.
Transcripts must be from accredited institutions to verify your bachelor’s degree. Send transcripts electronically to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or mail sealed transcripts to the Registrar’s Office at 1717 S. Chestnut Ave. Fresno, CA 93702. - Complete program requirements.
These requirements are specific to your program of choice. You will be contacted for an interview and additional requirements if applicable. - Apply for financial aid.
You can apply for FAFSA. Use FPU school code: 001253 - Schedule an appointment.
Meet with your Student Financial Services Advisor. You can contact them at 559-453-2041 | sfs@fresno.edu.
Program Requirements
Note: As a result of COVID-19, admission requirements have temporarily been simplified. Please contact your program representative for more information.
- Education Plan form
- Verification of negative TB test (within last 12 months)
- Valid California Credential or enrollment in Multiple Subjects or Single Subject credential program concurrently
- Admission interview and initial language assessment in Spanish
Must be either enrolled in MS or SS credential program concurrently or have a valid 2042 California preliminary or clear credential.
Concurrent Credential Applicants
- Entrance interview and initial assessment of spoken and written Spanish
Post-Credential Applicants
- Program application
- Letters of recommendation
- Entrance interview and initial assessment of spoken and written Spanish
- Must be able to gain access to a bilingual classroom for fieldwork during EDUC 650 and 651/653
Cost & Financial Aid
The below listed prices reflect the current and upcoming Fall and Spring semesters and do not include any financial aid. Paying for college can be an overwhelming step in your education journey. We can help you find all the opportunities to reduce your out of pocket costs.
Tuition & Fees
* This is an estimate. Costs subject to change. Please refer to the Catalog for additional fees. Cost of attendance figures are used for budgeting purposes only and represent an estimate of projected tuition and fees for the coming academic year. Actual tuition rates are approved by the Board of Trustees and may vary.
Types of aid
Financial aid can refer to scholarships, grants and loans, which are available to you from the government, the university or outside sources. Aid types vary depending on the type of student you are.
Career Opportunities
School districts in the Central Valley, and across California, are rapidly expanding their bilingual education programs. With the Bilingual Authorization, you’ll be able to support newly added dual language (Spanish immersion) classrooms and programs at the elementary level and/or existing programs within secondary schools.
School districts are constantly seeking out highly qualified bilingual teachers who are prepared to teach under FPU’s teacher education mission and vision.
Career Development Happens Here
The staff in our Career Development and Experiential Learning Center are here to help you prepare to enter the working world. Whether your a freshman or an FPU alum, there are a number of resources and trainings offered to help you find the internship and job you’re looking for.
- Resume writing classes
- Career assessments, exploration & planning
- Job search and networking opportunities
- and much more