The Bilingual Authorization Program at Whittier College

How much does the BILA program cost? 

The BILA Authorization Program costs $819 per unit. Admitted students will have the opportunity to select from various forms of financial aid.

How long is the BILA program? 

If you are pursuing your credential with BILA, it would take approximately two years (if a full-time student) to complete.

If you are a post-credential applicant, courses would include an emphasis on theory to practice and on various models of bilingual education, including dual language (Spanish immersion).

Three courses (9 units) are required and can be completed in one year, including fieldwork in a bilingual classroom.

• SPAN 525 Chicano/Latino Cultures: An Interdisciplinary Perspective (3 units–offered in Spring and Summer)
• EDUC 591 Bilingualism and Biliteracy (3 units–offered in Fall)
• EDUC 592 Methodology for Primary Language Instruction in a Bilingual Setting (3 units–offered in Fall)
• SPAN 322/522 Spanish Refresher for Education. A fourth course may be required if the language proficiency level is not at Intermediate High proficiency

When are the application deadlines? 

The deadlines for the BILA Authorization Program at Whittier College are as follows:

• Fall semester: July 2
• Spring semester: December 15
• Summer term: May 1

Is the program offered online? 

Whittier College's BILA courses are only offered asynchronously online. The courses are self-paced via a syllabus, online content, and deadlines. There are interactive assignments, discussion boards, and opportunities to meet with your professors. 

What do I need to submit for my application? 

Concurrent Credential Applicants and BILA

• Must be enrolled in a Multiple Subject or Single Subject Credential Program
• Two letters of recommendation; must speak on behalf of the applicant's biliteracy
• Program application
• Candidates must demonstrate Spanish proficiency at the ACTFL Intermediate High Level; assessed via a Spanish language assessment, a video submission, and a writing sample

Bilingual Authorization (Post-Credential Applicants)

• Have a valid 2042 California Preliminary or Clear Credential
• Program application
• Two letters of recommendation; must speak on behalf of the applicant's biliteracy
• Spanish language assessments to determine language proficiency as described above

Master of Arts + Bilingual Authorization

• Have a valid 2042 California Preliminary or Clear Credential
• Program application
• Two letters of recommendation; must speak on behalf of the applicant's biliteracy

What is the cost to apply to the BILA Program at Whittier College? 

Whittier College does not charge an application fee.