Graduate Certificate in English as a Second Language

Embark on an enriching journey with our ESL (English as a Second Language) program, crafted to transform educators into global leaders adept at meeting the diverse needs of students who speak English as an additional language. This dynamic program not only focuses on linguistic proficiency but also prepares you to be an effective, culturally-aware educator. With this training, you'll have the exciting opportunity to teach English in various countries, opening doors to cross-cultural experiences and the chance to make a significant impact in classrooms around the world. Candidates must take and pass content area tests in each area to qualify for Illinois entitlement.

Grading Policy

Passing at the graduate level is considered a B or higher. A maximum of eight hours of C (2.0) grades is applicable, provided that a minimum GPA of 3.0 is reached at the time of program completion and an approved Student Petition is on file in the Office of Records and Registration. Grades of C- or lower are not accepted.

Graduate Degree Opportunity 

Combine the graduate certificate with an additional 16 credit hours of education course work to fulfill requirements for a Master of Arts in Education or Master of Educational Leadership. Courses can be used to apply for an Illinois State Board of Education ESL endorsement. ESL Clinical Experience may not be required for students who have met the clinical requirement of the Illinois State Board of Education for English as a Second Language Letter of Approval/Endorsement. An active Illinois teaching license is required. 

Requirements

Required Courses
EDL 493	Cross-Cultural Studies for Multilingual Students and Families	3
EDL 550	Theoretical Foundations of ESL and Bilingual Education	3
EDL 584	Assessment of and Program Design for ESL and Bilingual Students	3
EDL 592	Linguistics	3
EDL 594	Bilingual and ESL Methods and Materials	3
TEP 475	Cultural Studies and Identity in Education	3
Total Hours		18