Curriculum and Instruction MA Program Handbook 2020-2021 Page 14
To be eligible for a CDE endorsement, students must 1) have a Colorado teaching license and 2)
complete a specific set of courses and all applicable non-coursework requirements. If you wish
to pursue a CDE endorsement, consult with your advisor to ensure that you complete all
requirements.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education Specialization
In the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education (CLDE) specialization, educators complete courses
to prepare them to be evidence-based practitioners and researchers who can foreground culturally
responsive pedagogy and the cultural, language, cognitive, and academic needs of culturally and
linguistically diverse learners in communities and classroom practices. Throughout their coursework,
candidates learn and apply knowledge about first and second language acquisition, the selection and
utilization of culturally relevant literature, essential literacy components and curriculum and assessment
practices for CLD learners with an emphasis on language and funds of knowledge to bridge
communities, classrooms, and schools.
Students who specialize in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education may elect to follow a
coursework plan that allows them to qualify for a CDE endorsement if they have a Colorado teaching
license. Students who are interested in seeking this credential should consult their advisor.
Curriculum Studies Specialization
In the Curriculum Studies specialization, students complete courses intended to add to their breadth
and depth of knowledge of equity and social justice in education so that they will be well-equipped to
meet the learning needs of all students in a variety of educational settings. The Curriculum Studies
specialization focuses on curriculum design, models of curriculum, instructional strategies, assessment,
and student engagement. Students can select courses around various themes in curriculum and
instruction, including (but not limited to) diversity, teacher education, aesthetics, urban education,
family studies, social work, library and information science, zoo and museum education, and
international education. Additionally, course work in this specialization encourages candidates to think
critically and imaginatively about curriculum and instruction and its role in creating a more open and
inviting learning experience for all students.
Mathematics Education Specialization
In the Mathematics Education specialization, students complete courses aimed at developing leaders
and researchers in mathematics education with strong theoretical and historical backgrounds. The
Mathematics Education specialization focuses on ambitious instructional practices that support
meaningful learning experiences for all students, particularly those in historically marginalized groups.
Students become familiar with a wide variety of research designs and methods of inquiry so that they
can apply various theories to address problems of practice with mathematics education. In this way,
students are prepared to address matters of practice in diverse educational settings with a strong
background in mathematical content, pedagogy, and assessment.
K-12 Gifted Education Specialization
In the Gifted Education specialization, students complete courses in gifted education content knowledge
integrated with leadership theory in complex systems that provides a breadth of foundational training
for gifted education leadership positions. Students develop research skills that are focused on problem
identification and interventions; coursework includes both qualitative and quantitative methodologies