TESOL Graduate Certificate
About the Program
Program Overview
Location: Asynchronous, Online
Non-Degree Option
12 Hours of Graduate Coursework
App Deadline: Jan. 1, May 1, Aug. 1
Prerequisites: None
The online Certificate Program in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is a non-degree option that prepares students to teach English to non-native speakers in a variety of contexts ranging from overseas instruction to community college instruction to language support in community settings.
The program is well-suited for both those who have a background in education as well as those who wish to make a career change and move into an exciting and diverse field. The topics covered are governed by the guidelines established by the TESOL International Association.
The program enables students to analyze the linguistic components of English- syntax, morphology, semantics, pragmatics, phonology, phonetics, and discourse. Students also cover sociolinguistic questions concerning the relationship of language to culture and issues related to dialects and varieties of English. In addition, students will study language acquisition and have opportunities to apply theoretical insight to the practical task of designing and implementing lesson plans and courses of study.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the certificate program, students will be able to:
- Comprehend theories in ESL methodology, second language acquisition, English grammar, and linguistics that inform the Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages.
- Develop pedagogically appropriate teaching materials for second language teaching context(s)
- Examine sociocultural and policy-related aspects of second language learning
- Assess student speaking, listening, reading and writing in second language learning context(s)
Program Requirements
A student who selects the TESOL Certificate Program must successfully complete the following 15 hours of graduate coursework in TESOL:
- ENGL 615 - Linguistic Perspectives, Credits: 3
- ENGL 625 - Applied Phonetics and Pronunciation Teaching, Credits: 3
- ENGL 626 - Integrated TESOL Methods, Credits: 3
- ENGL 635 - Teaching Grammar, Reading and Writing to ESL Students, Credits: 3
Master of Arts in Teaching, TESOL Concentration
If you already have a bachelor’s degree and would like to teach TESOL, the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) allows you to earn an advanced degree and a teaching license at the same time.
Testimonial - Tabitha Hill
During the TESOL Program at WCU, I created detailed lesson plans that have definitely helped me prepare for the lesson planning I've had to do here in China! The ESL Methods, Linguistics, and other TESOL classes have given me knowledge in content and understanding how different cultures may work in a classroom. It's important to know how to cater to each individual child's learning and adapting to that country's culture!