Graduate TESOL Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is open to graduate students from any field who desire training in teaching English to speakers of other languages. It is independent of a teaching credential, which is required for teaching in public schools, grades K-12.

The TESOL certificate is recognized by private institutions, as well as some adult schools and community college programs for teaching ESL. Some programs may require an MA in TESOL in addition to the TESOL certificate.

The TESOL certificate is also useful for teaching English abroad, as a foreign language (TEFL).

Although you can begin the Certificate as an undergraduate student, at least 18 units must be completed as a graduate student.

Full information on prerequisites and requirements can be found in the .

This certificate program is eligible for Financial Aid. Please see the department web site for required Federal disclosure information. 

This certificate is state supported.

Always check the to verify the most accurate and updated requirements.

Prerequisites

  1. Baccalaureate degree with a GPA of 3.0 on last 60 units.
  2. LING 325 - Modern English Grammar (3) (or equivalent)

Requirements

Twenty-four units, including:

  • 21 taken in residence;
  • 18 taken as a graduate student;
  • 12 taken at a 500-600 level.

Take all of the following courses:

  • LING 329 - Introduction to Language Acquisition (3 units)
  • LING 486 - Second Language Teaching Methods (3 units)
  • LING 561 - Second Language Curriculum Development (3 units)
  • LING 562 - Second Language Testing and Assessment (3 units)
  • LING 593 - Practicum in TESOL (3 units)

Take one of the following courses:

  • LING 420 - Phonology (3 units)
  • LING 421 - Syntax (3 units)

Take two of the following courses:

  • LING 550 - Teaching Second Language Listening and Speaking (3 units)
  • LING 560 - Teaching Second Language Composition (3 units)
  • LING 575 - Literacy and Linguistics (3 units)

Notes:

Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 in all courses included in the program.

Students who have taken equivalent courses in the above categories but need units to complete certificate requirements may elect to take courses as advised. Students wanting graduate credit for 400-level courses which have not been approved for graduate credit by the home department must consult with the Program Director or Graduate Advisor before enrolling.