Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language
Certificate Level: Graduate
Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree
Certificate Type: Post-Baccalaureate
Number of Credits to Completion: 13.5
Instructional Delivery: Online
Calendar Type: Quarter
Expected Time to Completion: 1 year
Financial Aid Eligibility: Not aid eligible
Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) Code: 13.1401
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 25-2031
About the Program
Teaching English as a Second Language certification is an add-on certificate available to candidates that currently possess a Pennsylvania Instructional I or Instructional II teaching certificate. The 13.5 credit ESL certificate program covers the theory and practice of second language education, the structure and sound of English, the design and assessment of ESL course materials, as well as broader issues in intercultural learning. Completion of the program also includes field-based experiences and a capstone action research project, under the guidance of an ESL Program Specialist. It does not require that the instructor speak another language. Credits earned through this program may be applied toward the MS in Teaching, Learning and Curriculum initial certification or advanced track programs. All candidates are also required to complete field experience hours in each course. This certificate has an option to be completed in an accelerated format.
This program satisfies PA State of Education requirements for Program Specialist: ESL endorsement. Interstate agreements generally allow applicability across the US; however, prospective candidates outside of Pennsylvania are advised to check with their state authorities to determine whether this program is appropriate for their case.
Clearances and field placement applications must be submitted before participating in coursework with classroom-based field components. Successful completion of all courses with a grade of B or better and 3.0 cum GPA, satisfactory participation in all required field-based experiences is required for recommendation for the Pennsylvania ESL specialist certification.
Program Requirements
| Courses | ||
| EDUC 602 | Language Learning & Teaching | 3.0 |
| EDUC 604 | Structure and Sound System of English | 3.0 |
| EDUC 606 | Design and Assessment | 3.0 |
| EDUC 608 | The Intercultural Learner | 4.5 |
| Total Credits | 13.5 | |
Sample Plan of Study
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | Credits | Term 2 | Credits |
| EDUC 602 | 3.0 | EDUC 606 | 3.0 |
| EDUC 604 | 3.0 | EDUC 608 | 4.5 |
| 6 | 7.5 | ||
| Total Credits 13.5 | |||
Additional Information
More information is available at the School of Education's website.