Embark on a journey of educational excellence at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's College of Education and P-16 Integration! From our diverse array of academic programs, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees, to our hands-on field experience opportunities, we're here to empower you to make a difference in the world of education. Explore our initiatives, engage with our dedicated faculty, and discover your path to success. Welcome to a community where learning knows no bounds.
Educator Program and Field Experience
Explore how UTRGV's teacher certification program ensures top-quality educators through rigorous training and oversight.
Discover how the Office of Field Experiences ensures hands-on training, bridging theory with practice for effective educator preparation.
Program Coordinators
- Early Care and Early Childhood Studies (BS) | Non-Teacher Certification
Dr. Vejoya Viren | vejoya.viren@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8886 | BMAIN 2.106 - Early Care and Early Childhood Studies (BS) | Teacher Certification
Dr. John Lowdermilk | john.lowdermilk@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3465 | EEDUC 1.302A - Education (BS) with concentration in Bilingual Education | Teacher Certification
Patricia Robles, M.Ed. | patricia.robles01@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-2645 | EEDUC 2.612 - Education (BS) with concentration in English as a Second Language | Teacher Certification
Patricia Robles, M.Ed. | patricia.robles01@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-2645 | EEDUC 2.612 - Special Education (BS) | Teacher Certification
Julie Pecina, M.Ed. | julia.pecina@utrgv.edu | EEDUC 1.632 - All-Level/Secondary Program | Teacher Certification
Dr. Raul Garza | raul.garza11@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-8288 | EEDUC 2.650 - UTeach Program | Teacher Certification
Lizette Ingle | lizette.ingle@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-2174 | EEDUC 3.240D
- Higher Education Administration (MA)
Dr. Federico Guerra | federico.guerra@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-5002 | EEDUC 3.102D - School Psychology (MA)
Dr. Nancy Razo | nancy.razo@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3490 | EEDUC 1.222 - Teaching (MAT) with concentration in Bilingual Education
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Teaching (MAT) with concentration in Curriculum Generalist
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Teaching (MAT) with concentration in Special Education
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Bilingual Education (MED) with specialization in Biliteracy
Dr. Kip Austin Hinton | kipaustin.hinton@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8847 | BMAIN 2.118 - Bilingual Education (MED) with specialization in Dual Language
Dr. Kip Austin Hinton | kipaustin.hinton@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8847 | BMAIN 2.118 - Bilingual Education (MED) with specialization in Educational Leadership
Dr. Kip Austin Hinton | kipaustin.hinton@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8847 | BMAIN 2.118 - Bilingual Education (MED) with specialization in ESL
Dr. Kip Austin Hinton | kipaustin.hinton@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8847 | BMAIN 2.118 - Bilingual Education (MED) with specialization in Mexican American Studies
Dr. Kip Austin Hinton | kipaustin.hinton@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8847 | BMAIN 2.118 - Counseling (MED) with specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Dr. Veronica Castro | veronica.castro@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-5319 | EEDUC 1.220 - Counseling (MED) with specialization in School Counseling
Dr. Veronica Castro | veronica.castro@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-5319 | EEDUC 1.220 - Curriculum & Instruction (MED) with concentration in Elementary Math and Science Education
Dr. Jair Aguilar | jair.aguilar@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-8768 | EEDUC 2.658 - Curriculum & Instruction (MED) with concentration in English
Dr. Jair Aguilar | jair.aguilar@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-8768 | EEDUC 2.658 - Curriculum & Instruction (MED) with concentration in Mathematics Education
Dr. Jair Aguilar | jair.aguilar@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-8768 | EEDUC 2.658 - Early Childhood (MED)
Dr. Hilda Medrano | hilda.medrano@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3629 | EEDUC 2.608 - Educational Leadership (MED)
Dr. Jesus Abrego | jesus.abrego@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3436 | EEDUC 1.510 - Educational Technology (MEd)
Dr. Rene Corbeil | rene.corbeil@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-7540 | BMAIN 1.318 - Reading and Literacy (MED) with concentration in Biliteracy
Dr. Isela Almaguer | isela.almaguer@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3630 | EEDUC 2.632 - Reading and Literacy (MED) with concentration in Digital Literacy
Dr. Isela Almaguer | isela.almaguer@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3630 | EEDUC 2.632 - Reading and Literacy (MED) with concentration in English/Adolescent Literacy
Dr. Isela Almaguer | isela.almaguer@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3630 | EEDUC 2.632 - Reading and Literacy (MED) with concentration in Reading Specialist
Dr. Isela Almaguer | isela.almaguer@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3630 | EEDUC 2.632 - Special Education (MED)
Dr. John Lowdermilk | john.lowdermilk@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3465 | EEDUC 1.302A
- Curriculum and Instruction (EdD) with a specialization in Bilingual Studies
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Curriculum and Instruction (EdD) with a specialization in Curriculum and Pedagogical Generalist
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Curriculum and Instruction (EdD) with a specialization in Educational Technology
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Curriculum and Instruction (EdD) with a specialization in Literacy
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Curriculum and Instruction (EdD) with a specialization in Mathematics Education
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Curriculum and Instruction (EdD) with a specialization in Science Education
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Curriculum and Instruction (EdD) with a specialization in Special Education
Dr. James Jupp | james.jupp@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3403 | (956) 882-7660 | EEDUC 3.202A - Educational Leadership (EdD) with a concentration in Higher Education Administration
Dr. Marie Simonsson | marie.simonsson@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-7388 | EEDUC 1.602 - Educational Leadership (EdD) with a concentration in PK-12 Administration
Dr. Marie Simonsson | marie.simonsson@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-7388 | EEDUC 1.602 - Educational Leadership (EdD) with a concentration in Special Education
Dr. Marie Simonsson | marie.simonsson@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-7388 | EEDUC 1.602
- Practitioner Reflection-Based Educator Preparation Academy
Victoria Hernandez | victoria.hernandez@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3484 | EEDUC 2.510G
- All-Level/Secondary Education Minor
Dr. Criselda Garcia | criselda.garcia@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3448 | EEDUC 3.102G - Early Care and Early Childhood Studies Minor
Dr. Vejoya Viren | vejoya.viren@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8886 | BMAIN 2.106 - Educational Technology Minor
Dr. Rene Corbeil | rene.corbeil@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-7540 | BMAIN 1.318 - Leadership Studies Minor
Dr. Criselda Garcia | criselda.garcia@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3448 | EEDUC 3.102G - Reading Minor
Dr. Isela Almaguer | isela.almaguer@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3630, EEDUC 2.632 - Secondary Bilingual Education Minor
Patricia Robles, M.Ed. | patricia.robles01@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-2645 | EEDUC 2.612 - Special Education Minor
Julie Pecina, M.Ed. | julia.pecina@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3466 | EEDUC 1.632
- Educational Diagnostician Certification
Dr. Nora Nevarez | nora.nevarez01@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3466 | EEDUC 1.654 - E-Learning Certificate
Dr. Rene Corbeil | rene.corbeil@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-7540 | BMAIN 1.318 - Online Instructional Designer Certificate
Dr. Rene Corbeil | rene.corbeil@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-7540 | BMAIN 1.318 - Primary Care Behavioral Health Certificate
Dr. Selma Yznaga | selma.yznaga@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-7855 | BNOBL 130 - Reading Specialist Certification
Dr. Isela Almaguer | isela.almaguer@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-3630 | EEDUC 2.632 - Secondary Bilingual Education Certificate
Dr. Kip Austin Hinton | kipaustin.hinton@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-8847 | BMAIN 2.118 - Superintendent Certification
Dr. Jesus Abrego | jesus.abrego@utrgv.edu | (956) 665-7333 | EEDUC 1.510B | (956) 882-7961 | BMAIN 2.200J - Technology Leadership in Education Certificate
Dr. Rene Corbeil | rene.corbeil@utrgv.edu | (956) 882-7540 | BMAIN 1.318
Academic Programs
Bachelor's
Bachelor's Degree
Early Care and Early Childhood Studies (BS)
Bachelor of Science in Early Care and Early Childhood Studies
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Early Care and Early Childhood Studies prepares students to become highly skilled professionals in careers that focus on early childhood development. Students are prepared for educational leadership, and research, and gain expertise in the human development of young children from birth to eight years of age in public and private educational settings.
Bachelor's Degree
Early Care and Early Childhood Studies - Teacher Certification (BS)
Bachelor of Science in Early Care and Early Childhood Studies - Teacher Certification
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Early Care and Early Childhood Studies with teacher certification prepares students to become educators with an understanding of the unique needs of young children from birth to eight years of age. The program focuses on preparing students with expertise in human development for teaching, research, educational leadership, in public and private educational settings.
Bachelor's Degree
Education (BS)
Bachelor of Science in Education
Program Modality: Campus
Inspire the next generation by becoming a teacher with a Bachelor of Science in Education at UTRGV.
As a student in this program, you will explore various topics such as teaching methods, leadership skills, and child development. You will be eligible for Early Childhood through 6th grade (EC-6) teacher certification to teach at the elementary level. Additionally, the program offers Bilingual Education and English as a Second Language (ESL) concentrations, which prepare you to become certified to help students learn English as their second language.
UTRGV is recognized by the State Board of Educator Certification, meaning that once you meet all the degree requirements, you will be officially recommended for teacher certification. Join us at UTRGV and start your journey toward a rewarding career in education!
Bachelor's Degree
Special Education (BS)
Bachelor of Science in Special Education
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor of Science in Special Education program at UTRGV will prepare you to help special needs students overcome daily challenges and thrive in their educational journey.
Our curriculum combines in-depth knowledge with practical skills, ensuring you can step into the classroom confidently. By the time you graduate, you will be fully prepared to handle the unique challenges and opportunities of teaching students with diverse learning needs. Plus, you will be eligible for Early Childhood through 6th-grade (EC-6) teacher certification with a Special Education supplement.
UTRGV is recognized by the State Board of Educator Certification, meaning that once you meet all the degree requirements, you will be officially recommended for teacher certification. This endorsement highlights the quality and rigor of our program, making you a standout candidate for potential employers.
Choose UTRGV to pursue a degree in Special Education and start your journey toward an inspiring and fulfilling career!
Master's
Master's Degree
Bilingual Education (MED)
Master of Education in Bilingual Education
Program Modality: Online
The Master’s degree in Bilingual Education is an innovative and unique program with several concentrations. The program is designed to develop master teachers and advocates with a thorough understanding of effective enrichment of bilingual education and practices that not only meet the educational needs of Spanish speakers but also provide bilingual/biliterate/bicultural enrichment opportunities for all children.
Master's Degree
Counseling (MED)
Master of Education in Counseling
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Counseling prepares highly competent professionals to respond to the mental health needs of a multicultural community. Graduates are committed to advocacy and leadership in the communities they serve. The degree satisfies the requirements to apply for state of Texas licensure (Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC) or the School Counselor Certification.
The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Master's Degree
Curriculum & Instruction (MEd - Content Specialization in Elementary Math and Science Education)
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with a Content Specialization in Elementary Math and Science Education
Program Modality: Online
Our 100% online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Elementary Math and Science Education enhances your ability to serve the needs of elementary students. Learn advanced skills in curriculum development and implementation while becoming a content specialist in the high-demand areas of math and science. This online M.Ed. program can advance your specialized knowledge and skills for use in the classroom or in a variety of education settings.
Master's Degree
Curriculum & Instruction (MEd - Content Specialization in English)
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with a Content Specialization in English
Program Modality: Online
Our 100% online, accelerated Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Content Specialization in English provides the skill set needed to become an English language instructional leader to serve a diverse population in classroom and other settings. It enhances your ability to serve the needs of high school and community college students. Learn advanced skills in curriculum development and implementation while becoming a content specialist in the high-demand areas of English writing and language studies. This online M.Ed. program can advance your specialized knowledge and skills for use in the classroom or in a variety of educational settings.
Master's Degree
Curriculum & Instruction (MEd - Content Specialization in Mathematics Education)
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with a Content Specialization in Mathematics Education
Program Modality: Online
The UTRGV M.Ed. in C&I with a Content Specialization in Mathematics Education provides the skill set needed to become a mathematics instructional leader to serve a diverse population, especially the English language learner.
Career outcomes range from school district administrator to curriculum specialist, coordinator and instructional coach.
UTRGV is a collaborative partner in the Texas Regional Collaborative in Science and Math, which promotes mentoring and professional development in science & math instruction.
Master's Degree
Early Childhood (MED)
Master of Education in Early Childhood
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Early Childhood is ideal for professionals who aspire to develop expertise in the areas of child development, early language, and literacy development, theory of development, and application of developmentally appropriate practices. The program provides the skills to advocate for quality early education of children from diverse backgrounds.
Master's Degree
Educational Leadership (MED)
Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Program Modality: Online
The Master’s degree in Educational Leadership is designed to build forward-thinking schoolteachers into leaders and administrators who can provide leadership in various educational settings and are competent in management, organization, school law, finance, and contemporary personnel practices.
Students will learn how to effectively direct and advocate for academic excellence and lead positive change in today's schools with a particular focus on students from multicultural backgrounds and English language learner (ELL) populations.
Master's Degree
Educational Technology (MEd)
Master of Education in Educational Technology
Program Modality: Online
The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Technology is designed to prepare persons in K-12, higher education, corporate, and military settings to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for the classrooms and boardrooms of tomorrow. Graduates of this program will have a much better understanding of the uses of technology and how they can be applied in instructional/training settings.
Master's Degree
Higher Education Administration (MA)
Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration
Program Modality: Online
The Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration program within the Department of Organization and School Leadership at UTRGV will prepare those who aspire to leadership positions in key college or university administrative areas with the required knowledge, skills, and competencies that higher education administrators need to enter such positions.
Master's Degree
Reading and Literacy (MED)
Master of Education in Reading and Literacy
Program Modality: Online
The Master’s degree in Reading and Literacy prepares PK-12-grade teachers in the practical and theoretical aspects of reading. The program specializes in literacy within bilingual, multilingual, transnational, and immigrant contexts. Within the specializations offered, students will learn about the reading process, how people learn to read, and how bilingual/ESL issues impact reading.
Master's Degree
School Psychology (MA)
Master of Arts in School Psychology
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in School Psychology prepares students to work with children and adolescents from diverse socio-cultural and linguistic backgrounds to help them succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. Upon completion, graduates have expertise in mental health and educational interventions, child development, learning, behavior, motivation, curriculum and instruction, assessment, consultation, collaboration, school law, and school systems. The degree satisfies the requirements to be a School Psychologist and apply for state of Texas licensure (Licensed Specialist in School Psychology).
Master's Degree
Special Education (MEd)
Master of Education in Special Education
Program Modality: Online
Special education students need teachers and advocates with the unique expertise to guide them to a successful future. If your passion matches your ambition, you can earn your M.Ed. in Special Education online with UTRGV in as few as ten months.
Master's Degree
Teaching (MAT)
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Program Modality: Online
The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program at UTRGV is a fully online, alternative certification program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become certified teachers in Texas. This comprehensive program offers three concentrations: Bilingual Education, Special Education, and Generalist, allowing students to tailor their studies to their professional interests and career goals.
Doctorate
Doctoral Degree
Curriculum and Instruction (EdD)
Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Program Modality: Online
The Doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction with several specializations, prepares educators to assume leadership positions in institutions of higher education, as well as in local, regional, and independent school districts at multiple levels. The program also enables successful candidates to teach in colleges and universities.
Doctoral Degree
Educational Leadership (EdD)
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Program Modality: Campus
The Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership program is committed to creating leaders with the knowledge and skills to make educational institutions better places for children, adolescents, and adults of all ages.
Schools And Departments
Explore the College of Education's diverse schools and departments! CEP offers departments from Bilingual and Literacy Studies, Organization and School Leadership to Human Development and School Services, and beyond. Each department provides a variety of undergraduate minors and graduate certificate programs, allowing you to customize your academic path. At UTRGV, we want to support your dreams of shaping the world of education!