English as a Second Language Degrees
As the world is becoming more integrated, more people are moving between countries and working with people in other countries. This has increased the need for educators who can teach the English language to those who have moved to the U.S. as well as people in other countries who want to learn English. Degree and certificate programs that instruct individuals to teach the English language are referred to in various ways including, Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), and Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), among others. These programs have similar curriculums but may be structured to meet the needs of specific careers such as teaching English overseas, teaching in U.S. public schools or teaching international college students.
TESL program graduates can choose to teach at elementary, middle and high schools, adult education programs, overseas ESL programs and as well as teach international students at U.S. colleges. Job prospects for ESL teachers vary depending on the location and the degree a person holds. To teach in the U.S., a master's degree or graduate certificate is often needed whereas jobs overseas are readily available to those with a bachelor's degree.
Degree Options
There are many types of programs that one can take to become qualified to teach ESL. Some programs qualify graduates to become licensed so they can teach in public schools. Each state has its own requirements so a qualifying program in one state may not qualify in another state. Below are some examples of the types of programs available. Note that various programs use TESL or TESOL acronyms but there is no distinction in programs based solely on the acronym.- Bachelor's in TESL
- Bachelor's in TESL with Education minor
- Bachelor's in Education with TESL minor
- Graduate certificate in TESOL
- Master's in TESL
- Master's in English with TESL concentration
- Bachelor's TESL Endorsement (for licensed teachers)
- Master's TESL Endorsement (for licensed teachers)
- PhD in TESL
- PhD in Second Language Studies
- PhD in Language Education with concentration in TESOL
Schools
Many universities and colleges that offer education degrees also offer TESL programs. Online programs are readily available as well.
Coursework
Degree programs will include traditional education courses as well as courses similar to those listed below. Certificate programs assume the student has a degree in education and therefore only include TESL courses. TESL practicum or internships are typically required in these programs.
- Second Language Acquisition
- Language and Culture
- TESL: The Spoken Language
- TESL: The Written Language
- Grammar for TESL
- ESL Methods of Teaching
- Intercultural/Cross-cultural Communication
- Linguistics for ESL Teachers
- Technology for ESL Teachers
Interests and Aptitudes
Individuals who appreciate diversity, are caring, patient and creative will be successful in teaching non-English speaking people to speak and write in English. Knowledge of a foreign language is not necessary although it can increase opportunities. Those who plan to teach English overseas will need to be very adaptable, thrive on experiencing new cultures and be flexible in their expectations.
Career Options
Graduates of a TESL program can choose to teach in a number of settings including public schools, colleges, outreach programs and in overseas ESL venues. Most states require a master's degree or post-graduate certification or endorsement to become a licensed teacher in the public schools. Individuals who wish to work overseas typically only need a bachelor's degree although a higher level degree will result in more opportunities and higher pay.
Related Majors
- Foreign Language Teacher Education
- Bilingual Education
- Linguistics
- Elementary School Education
- Middle School Education
- Secondary School Education
- Adult Education
How To Evaluate TESL Programs
When choosing a TESL program, the following factors should be considered:
- Program Focus - There can be major differences between programs that prepare students to teach ESL overseas vs. programs that prepare students for state teacher licensing. Students need to make sure the program they choose prepares them for their intended career.
- Quality - With so many programs to choose from, it makes sense to verify the faculty is well-qualified and the curriculum is current and comprehensive. Many program websites provide faculty backgrounds and course descriptions which can then be compared against those of other programs.
- On-site ESL programs - Schools that offer ESL classes on-site provide their TESL students with easy access to observation opportunities and teaching internships.
Free Online Resources
Below are two resources that provide information helpful to those considering a TESL career:
- TEFL: An Introduction - provides an overview for those considering a career teaching English overseas.
- Instructional Tools for Adult ESL Instructors is a collection of articles about TESL topics.
Resources
Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, Inc. (TESOL Inc.)
International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language
Center for Adult English Language Acquisition
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