Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Bachelor of Arts
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages program teaches knowledge of the theories, strategies and methodologies in teaching English language learners.
Becoming an ESL teacher offers unique multicultural opportunities. As the number of children and young adults who are English language learners has increased, so has the need for schools to recruit teachers who are qualified to teach English as a second language while navigating the curriculum expectations of our schools.
Candidates will gain knowledge of the theories, strategies and methodologies in teaching English language learners, acquire awareness and understanding of the socio-cultural and sociolinguistic issues that impact the acquisition of English as an additional language, facilitate the teaching/learning process for students as they develop skills in a new language, as well as navigating the journey of education and college and career readiness within the global context of our communities. Â
Students who choose the TESOL program will be qualified to teach English to speakers of other languages at any grade level. Successful completion of the program leads to New York state initial certification in TESOL, pre-k through grade 12.
Sixty credits of general education courses are common to all bachelor’s degree programs. These courses are designed to develop the skills – critical thinking, informational literacy, communications, and the ability to work effectively with diverse groups — as well as the ethics and values that will enable students to succeed and make a difference in the lives of others. Â
Faculty will assist student in choosing general education courses that link to their field of education and some general education courses satisfy program requirements.
Students can choose from one of five concentrations areas: English Language Arts, Liberal Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Spanish and French.
Comprehensive field experiences begin in the first semester of study and continue each semester of the program, leading to a teaching assistantship and comprehensive student teaching experience.
The increasing demand for ESL teachers has created a multitude of ESL job opportunities in the U.S. and internationally. It is considered one of the fastest growing, teacher shortage areas in the U.S.
All programs require comprehensive clinical field experience. The opportunity to observe and begin working with qualified teachers on various aspects of the teaching-learning process begins during the freshman year, and is required throughout the program. Field placements are aligned with coursework, include specific assignments and responsibilities, and are completed in three phases:
Childcare Services
Child/Family Advocate
Educational Consultant
Elementary/Middle School Teacher
In Home Childcare
Council for the Accreditation for Teacher Education (CAEP)
