Inspire Deeper Learning with the EdM in English and Language Arts
Become the teacher they’ll remember. The Master of Education (EdM) in English & Language Arts Education stands apart from other master’s in English education or master’s in language arts programs. Here, you’ll explore culturally sustaining teaching practices for developing students’ critical literacy skills (grades 5–12).
Deepen your expertise in lesson design, critical literacy, instructional delivery, and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to take courses in English with a focus on diverse literature and pedagogy.
Program Pathways
For Current Teachers
Our EdM in English & Language Arts Education is for individuals who already have an initial teaching license or who are interested in teaching outside the public school system. This flexible program can be completed full- or part-time and can be started in any semester.
Essential Communication and Language Skills
In a master’s in language arts or master’s in English education, you’ll further develop tools and techniques to teach essential communication and language skills. Our EdM in English & Language Arts Education allows you to focus on elementary (grade 5), middle school, or high school students using a culturally informed approach.
Increase your impact in topics like vocabulary, grammar, spelling, sentence structure, and reading fluency. Learn culturally sustaining teaching practices for developing students’ literacy.
Critical Thinking and Literary Analysis
You’ll also learn new tools and techniques to work with students to understand language structure, the evolution of the English language, and literary analysis. Help students dissect fiction and nonfiction work to build critical thinking skills. You’ll learn how to leverage diverse literature and pedagogy, empowering students to speak on issues related to equity and social justice.
Licensure Option
If you are seeking initial teacher licensure, you can also explore the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in English for Education & Justice.
Career Outcomes
Most master’s in english education or master’s in language arts programs provide you with new tools and techniques. Our EdM in English & Language Arts Education also equips you to serve economically, culturally, and linguistically diverse elementary, middle, and high school students. You’ll be able to emphasize recent research and successful practices in English and language arts education. You will achieve mastery of:
- Curriculum, planning, and assessment
- Instructional delivery
- Teaching students with a diverse range of needs and backgrounds
- Building effective partnerships with families, caregivers, community members, and organizations
- Subject matter knowledge
EdM in English & Language Arts Education Alumni
When considering a master’s in English education or master’s in language arts program, you should evaluate the career outcomes of program alumni. Graduates of Boston University’s EdM in English & Language Arts Education enter a wide range of careers, including:
- English teacher (grades 5–12)
- Language arts/ELA teacher (grades 5–12)
- Supervisor
- Department chair
- Curriculum developer
- Educational consultant
Featured Faculty
When considering a master’s in English education or master’s in language arts program, it’s important to look at the interests and values of the faculty. The faculty for the EdM in English & Language Arts Education are experienced instructors, committed to equity and social justice in their research, teaching, and service.
Courses in the EdM in English & Language Arts Education
Program graduates complete courses in professional education and additional graduate courses in English. For students interested in adding licensure, student-teaching experience is also required. To meet graduation requirements, all course work will be at the 500 level or higher.
Courses in the program include:
- Educating for Equity and Literacy in the Humanities
- Community Engagement for Teachers
- Current Issues & Early Childhood Education
- Multicultural Literature in the PreK–Grade 12 Classroom
Scholarships Available
Don’t let funding keep you from pursuing a master’s in English education or master’s in language arts. In our EdM in English & Language Arts Education, merit-based scholarships are available, making your degree more affordable.
Admissions & Dates
Fall & Spring 2027
Aug 3, 2026
Application Opens
Spring 2027 Start
Dec 15, 2026
Application Closes
Fall 2027 Start
Jan 15, 2027
Priority Deadline
Fall 2027 Start
Aug 1, 2027
Application Closes
Still wondering which master’s in English education or master’s in language arts is right for you? Connect with BU Wheelock to learn more about the unique aspects of the EdM in English & Language Arts Education. Learn about application requirements and deadlines, sign up for an information session, or start your application today.
Frequently Asked Questions
The EdM in English & Language Arts Education at Boston University Wheelock is designed for licensed educators and experienced teachers who want to strengthen their expertise in teaching English language arts for grades 5–12. It’s an ideal choice for educators seeking to advance their instructional practice, develop leadership skills, or deepen their knowledge of literacy, writing, and curriculum without pursuing initial teacher licensure.
No. This master’s program is intended for educators who already hold an initial teaching license or for professionals who are not seeking licensure. Students who want to earn their first teaching license should explore BU Wheelock’s licensure-focused teacher preparation programs.
You’ll study advanced approaches to teaching literature, writing, literacy, language, and critical thinking while exploring culturally sustaining teaching practices, curriculum design, educational research, and assessment. The program prepares educators to create engaging, equitable English language arts classrooms that support diverse learners.
Yes. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time study options, including hybrid courses that allow many working educators to continue teaching while completing their degree. Students can choose a pace that fits their professional and personal commitments.
An EdM in English & Language Arts Education can help you advance your career as a middle or high school English teacher, instructional coach, curriculum specialist, department chair, literacy leader, or educational consultant. The degree also prepares educators for leadership roles and doctoral study while expanding their expertise in English language arts instruction.