Utah Endorsement Courses

P-12 educators will examine foundational theories of learning and development in relation to the integration of technology in education. Emphasis is placed on the application of these theories to curriculum design, instructional practice, and assessment. Learners will critically engage with digital tools and platforms to develop research-informed strategies for the purposeful incorporation of technology within P–12 learning environments.

P-12 educators will examine the principles and practices of effective technology leadership within contemporary organizational contexts. Through case studies across diverse industries, students will analyze the factors influencing the success and challenges of technology-driven instructional initiatives. Emphasis is placed on understanding the cultures, strategies, and leadership approaches that promote continuous innovation and the informed adoption of emerging technologies.

P–12 educators will develop and apply the knowledge, competencies, and pedagogical approaches needed to foster 21st-century learning skills.Emphasizing collaboration, communication, critical and creative thinking, and media literacy, the course engages educators in exploring the ethical and responsible use of technology in a global and digital context. Participants will analyze issues of digital citizenship, data privacy, and information literacy while developing strategies to create inclusive, adaptive, and innovation-oriented learning environments.

By examining the principles and practices of digital citizenship within local and global contexts, participants will develop the knowledge and skills to guide students in fostering responsible, ethical, and informed online engagement. Emphasis is placed on data privacy, digital identity, copyright, and information literacy, with applied learning experiences designed to promote critical evaluation of digital content and the creation of positive, connected learning environments.

P-12 educators will examine foundational theories of learning and development in relation to the integration of technology in education. Emphasis is placed on the application of these theories to curriculum design, instructional practice, and assessment. Learners will critically engage with digital tools and platforms to develop research-informed strategies for the purposeful incorporation of technology within P–12 learning environments.

P-12 educators will examine the principles and practices of effective technology leadership within contemporary organizational contexts. Through case studies across diverse industries, students will analyze the factors influencing the success and challenges of technology-driven instructional initiatives. Emphasis is placed on understanding the cultures, strategies, and leadership approaches that promote continuous innovation and the informed adoption of emerging technologies.

P–12 educators will develop and apply the knowledge, competencies, and pedagogical approaches needed to foster 21st-century learning skills.Emphasizing collaboration, communication, critical and creative thinking, and media literacy, the course engages educators in exploring the ethical and responsible use of technology in a global and digital context. Participants will analyze issues of digital citizenship, data privacy, and information literacy while developing strategies to create inclusive, adaptive, and innovation-oriented learning environments.

By examining the principles and practices of digital citizenship within local and global contexts, participants will develop the knowledge and skills to guide students in fostering responsible, ethical, and informed online engagement. Emphasis is placed on data privacy, digital identity, copyright, and information literacy, with applied learning experiences designed to promote critical evaluation of digital content and the creation of positive, connected learning environments.

P-12 educators will examine foundational theories of learning and development in relation to the integration of technology in education. Emphasis is placed on the application of these theories to curriculum design, instructional practice, and assessment. Learners will critically engage with digital tools and platforms to develop research-informed strategies for the purposeful incorporation of technology within P–12 learning environments.

P-12 educators will examine the principles and practices of effective technology leadership within contemporary organizational contexts. Through case studies across diverse industries, students will analyze the factors influencing the success and challenges of technology-driven instructional initiatives. Emphasis is placed on understanding the cultures, strategies, and leadership approaches that promote continuous innovation and the informed adoption of emerging technologies.

P–12 educators will develop and apply the knowledge, competencies, and pedagogical approaches needed to foster 21st-century learning skills.Emphasizing collaboration, communication, critical and creative thinking, and media literacy, the course engages educators in exploring the ethical and responsible use of technology in a global and digital context. Participants will analyze issues of digital citizenship, data privacy, and information literacy while developing strategies to create inclusive, adaptive, and innovation-oriented learning environments.

By examining the principles and practices of digital citizenship within local and global contexts, participants will develop the knowledge and skills to guide students in fostering responsible, ethical, and informed online engagement. Emphasis is placed on data privacy, digital identity, copyright, and information literacy, with applied learning experiences designed to promote critical evaluation of digital content and the creation of positive, connected learning environments.

Grounded in the principles of scientific literacy, K-6 educators will be introduced to the Nature of Science (NOS) and the Nature of Engineering (NOE) as core components of scientific literacy. Participants engage in explicit and implicit explorations of how science and engineering function as disciplines while experiencing phenomena-based, three-dimensional instruction designed to deepen conceptual understanding. The course emphasizes equitable and effective science teaching practices and serves as the foundational course in the Elementary Science Education (ESE) sequence.

Designed for K–6 educators, this fifth course in the ESE sequence explores the crosscutting concept of Stability and Change as a foundational component of scientific literacy. Participants construct and refine explanations through argumentation and data analysis across living, physical, and Earth systems. Emphasis is placed on designing and implementing phenomena-based, three-dimensional instruction that promotes conceptual understanding, equity, and effectiveness in science education.

In this fourth course in the ESE sequence, K-6 educators will deepen their understanding of the crosscutting concept Cause and Effect: Mechanism and Prediction and the practice of Planning and Carrying Out Investigations. They will explore core concepts from the physical, life, and Earth sciences, using inquiry-based learning to connect scientific theory with effective three-dimensional instruction.

Grounded in the principles of scientific literacy, K-6 educators will be introduced to the Nature of Science (NOS) and the Nature of Engineering (NOE) as core components of scientific literacy. Participants engage in explicit and implicit explorations of how science and engineering function as disciplines while experiencing phenomena-based, three-dimensional instruction designed to deepen conceptual understanding. The course emphasizes equitable and effective science teaching practices and serves as the foundational course in the Elementary Science Education (ESE) sequence.

K-6 educators will examine the concept of systems and their role in supporting sensemaking of natural phenomena in this second course within the ESE

The flow and conservation of energy and matter within and across systems are examined to support both conceptual understanding and scientific literacy. In this third course within the ESE sequence, K-6 educators will develop and refine models to explain related phenomena, engage in scientific discourse through the critique and revision of models, and analyze student work and assessments to inform instructional practice. Emphasis is placed on designing equitable and effective science instruction that fosters deep understanding of energy and matter in the classroom.

Designed for K–6 educators, this course explores STEM integration through the lens of mathematics. Participants engage with mathematical concepts, Standards for Mathematical Practice (SMPs), and Effective Mathematics Teaching Practices through rich, inquiry-based tasks. Participants will also model strategies for creating student-centered learning environments that promote authentic, interdisciplinary connections across STEM disciplines.

Designed for K–6 educators, this course explores STEM integration through the lens of science. Participants examine and apply models of STEM instruction while engaging in science practices that emphasize authentic phenomena and three-dimensional learning. Through lesson design, reflection, and assessment, participants develop pedagogical strategies to support disciplinary literacy, integrate science with other STEM disciplines, and connect instruction to real-world scientific and engineering careers.

Designed for K–6 educators, this course examines STEM integration through the lens of engineering and technology. Participants explore and apply models of STEM instruction by engaging in the engineering design process and Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) using effective technological tools. Emphasis is placed on developing disciplinary literacy, fostering authentic connections between science and technology, and creating student-centered learning environments that support integrated, inquiry-based instruction.

Designed for K–6 educators, this course explores STEM integration through the lens of mathematics. Participants engage with mathematical concepts, Standards for Mathematical Practice (SMPs), and Effective Mathematics Teaching Practices through rich, inquiry-based tasks. Participants will also model strategies for creating student-centered learning environments that promote authentic, interdisciplinary connections across STEM disciplines.

Designed for K–6 educators, this course examines STEM integration through the lens of engineering and technology. Participants explore and apply models of STEM instruction by engaging in the engineering design process and Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) using effective technological tools. Emphasis is placed on developing disciplinary literacy, fostering authentic connections between science and technology, and creating student-centered learning environments that support integrated, inquiry-based instruction.

K-6 educators will examine research on how children develop conceptual understanding of the four basic operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Participants explore how students identify, distinguish, and solve various problem types and consider how these insights inform effective instructional practice in mathematics education..

K-6 educators will gain a deep mathematical and pedagogical understanding of rational numbers, operations with rational numbers, and proportional relationships. Participants will enhance their teaching practices by crafting lesson dialogues that employ strategic questioning to foster meaningful mathematical discourse, while receiving constructive feedback to refine their approach.

K-6 educators will gain a thorough understanding of geometry and measurement, including shapes, spatial relationships, geometric modeling, and the attributes and systems of measurement. Students will deepen their pedagogical skills through case study analysis and reflection, while enhancing their mathematical knowledge by creating instructional videos on key topics in geometry and measurement.

K-6 educators will develop mathematical and pedagogical understanding of algebraic expressions, equations, functions, and real numbers. Emphasis is placed on formulating and proving conjectures and on designing instructional approaches that guide students to make and justify their own conjectures.

K-6 educators will gain a comprehensive understanding of algebraic expressions, equations, functions, and real numbers, both mathematically and pedagogically. They will learn to formulate and prove conjectures, as well as how to guide their own students in making and justifying conjectures.

K-6 educators will examine research on mathematical problem solving to develop a deeper understanding of what it means to solve problems and how to teach problem solving effectively. Students will explore how children reason about foundational concepts in data analysis and apply problem-solving approaches to teaching these topics. Emphasis is placed on connecting research insights to participants’ own instructional practice.

K-6 educators will develop mathematical and pedagogical understanding of algebraic expressions, equations, functions, and real numbers. Emphasis is placed on formulating and proving conjectures and on designing instructional approaches that guide students to make and justify their own conjectures.

K-6 educators will examine research on how children develop conceptual understanding of the four basic operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Participants explore how students identify, distinguish, and solve various problem types and consider how these insights inform effective instructional practice in mathematics education..

K-6 educators will gain a deep mathematical and pedagogical understanding of rational numbers, operations with rational numbers, and proportional relationships. Participants will enhance their teaching practices by crafting lesson dialogues that employ strategic questioning to foster meaningful mathematical discourse, while receiving constructive feedback to refine their approach.

K-6 educators will gain a thorough understanding of geometry and measurement, including shapes, spatial relationships, geometric modeling, and the attributes and systems of measurement. Students will deepen their pedagogical skills through case study analysis and reflection, while enhancing their mathematical knowledge by creating instructional videos on key topics in geometry and measurement.

K-6 educators will examine research on mathematical problem solving to develop a deeper understanding of what it means to solve problems and how to teach problem solving effectively. Students will explore how children reason about foundational concepts in data analysis and apply problem-solving approaches to teaching these topics. Emphasis is placed on connecting research insights to participants’ own instructional practice.

K-6 educators will gain a comprehensive understanding of algebraic expressions, equations, functions, and real numbers, both mathematically and pedagogically. They will learn to formulate and prove conjectures, as well as how to guide their own students in making and justifying conjectures.

Designed for aspiring Elementary Mathematics Specialists, this course provides a comprehensive perspective on curriculum, instruction, and assessment in elementary mathematics education. Emphasis is placed on leadership strategies that support teachers and improve educational systems.

K-6 educators will focus on developing leadership knowledge and skills in mathematics education, including understanding policy and curriculum issues, research-based instructional practices, and the implementation and evaluation of professional development. Students will also examine the evaluation of educational structures that impact equity, including the use of instructional materials, and explore the roles and responsibilities of math coaches and mentors in supporting effective teaching practices.

Designed for aspiring Elementary Mathematics Specialists, this course provides a comprehensive perspective on curriculum, instruction, and assessment in elementary mathematics education. Emphasis is placed on leadership strategies that support teachers and improve educational systems.

K-6 educators will focus on developing leadership knowledge and skills in mathematics education, including understanding policy and curriculum issues, research-based instructional practices, and the implementation and evaluation of professional development. Students will also examine the evaluation of educational structures that impact equity, including the use of instructional materials, and explore the roles and responsibilities of math coaches and mentors in supporting effective teaching practices.

K-6 educators will focus on developing leadership knowledge and skills in mathematics education, including understanding policy and curriculum issues, research-based instructional practices, and the implementation and evaluation of professional development. Students will also examine the evaluation of educational structures that impact equity, including the use of instructional materials, and explore the roles and responsibilities of math coaches and mentors in supporting effective teaching practices.

K-6 educators will explore effective strategies for enhancing the involvement of parents of culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students. Participants will investigate best practices for fostering greater engagement with CLD families, promoting a collaborative approach to support student success.

K-6 educators will integrate language and literacy methodologies into content areas using the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP®). Participants will develop and implement units, lessons, and activities that incorporate SIOP strategies, providing a practical, hands-on experience to enhance instruction for culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students.

K-6 educators will examine key educational issues surrounding diversity in ethnicity, culture, language, geography, economics, and identity. Designed for educators and parents, it focuses on strategies for building equitable, inclusive learning environments that engage and support all students. Participants will develop the knowledge and skills to design and implement programs that meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse learners while promoting equity and inclusivity across educational settings.

K-6 educators will study and apply theories of first and second language acquisition and cognition to support English language proficiency, literacy, cognitive development, and academic success of ESL learners.

K-6 educators will study and apply theories of first and second language acquisition and cognition to support English language proficiency, literacy, cognitive development, and academic success of ESL learners.

K-6 educators will deepen their understanding of methods and techniques for assessing, placing, and accommodating culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students. Participants will explore best practices for language and academic assessment to ensure effective support and equitable learning opportunities for CLD learners.

K-6 educators examine the social and emotional development of gifted and talented learners, emphasizing theoretical foundations and evidence-based practices that support their well-being. Participants will analyze case studies to identify individual learner needs and develop informed recommendations and interventions to address those needs within educational contexts.

K–6 educators will explore classroom-level strategies, materials, and curricula effective for gifted learners. Emphasizing practical application, the course covers key components of gifted pedagogy—content, process, and product—along with principles of differentiation and assessment. Participants will design and share instructional materials tailored to the needs of high-ability students while deepening their understanding of effective classroom practices for gifted education.

K–6 educators examine in-depth understanding of models, systems, and global practices used to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, and intellectual needs of gifted and talented learners. Emphasizing theoretical frameworks and evidence-based approaches, the course explores how conceptual models inform effective instructional strategies and program design, helping educators translate theory into practice to better serve gifted students across varied educational contexts.

This foundational course introduces K–6 educators to the characteristics, definitions, and conceptualizations of giftedness and intelligence. Participants examine the diverse cognitive, social, and emotional traits of gifted and talented learners, along with historical and contemporary approaches to their identification and support. This course establishes the theoretical and practical foundation for advanced study in gifted education.

K–6 educators examine in-depth understanding of models, systems, and global practices used to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, and intellectual needs of gifted and talented learners. Emphasizing theoretical frameworks and evidence-based approaches, the course explores how conceptual models inform effective instructional strategies and program design, helping educators translate theory into practice to better serve gifted students across varied educational contexts.

Guided by the International Literacy Association (ILA) Standards for Literacy Professionals (2018), K–12 educators will gain the knowledge and leadership skills required to advance comprehensive, evidence-based literacy instruction across varied educational contexts.

In alignment with the International Literacy Association (ILA) Standards for Literacy Professionals (2018), K-12 educators will prepare to develop, implement, and lead effective literacy programs.

Under qualified supervision, participants engage in extended, integrated field experiences that include assessing and addressing LEA and school literacy needs; developing and evaluating literacy frameworks, evidence-based intervention systems, and coherent assessment plans; and designing and leading professional learning and literacy initiatives that engage educators, families, and communities. Successful completion of this Capstone course provides participants with the knowledge and documentation necessary to apply for the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) K–12 Literacy Specialist Endorsement.

K-6 educators will learn theoretical, historical, and evidence-based foundations of literacy instruction, processes, and leadership.

K-6 educators will focus on evaluating, designing, and leading school- and district-wide literacy curricula and instructional practices. Participants will develop and implement comprehensive, evidence-based literacy frameworks aligned with state and LEA standards; facilitate professional collaboration and coaching to improve instructional quality; and promote inclusive, culturally and linguistically responsive literacy practices. Emphasis is placed on data-driven decision-making, differentiation, and the integration of digital tools to support effective, equitable literacy learning.

Grounded in the International Literacy Association (ILA) Standards for Literacy Professionals (2018), K-12 educators will be prepared to lead the development and evaluation of comprehensive, school- or district-wide literacy assessment systems; analyze and communicate data to inform instruction and interventions; and design professional learning initiatives that promote effective, evidence-based literacy practices.