Program Overview
The Advanced Certificate in TESOL is a 15-credit program designed for certified teachers to gain expertise in teaching English to non-native speakers. The program covers theories of second language acquisition, multicultural perspectives, and methods for teaching English language arts and content area instruction to English learners. Graduates are eligible to become certified teachers of English as a Second Language in New York State schools.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Overview: The Advanced Certificate in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is a 15-credit program designed for initially certified teachers to gain the knowledge and skills to work effectively in English as a New Language (ENL) classroom settings.
- Objectives: Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:
- Understand the theories of second language acquisition
- Apply multicultural perspectives in education
- Comprehend the social, psychological, and psycho-linguistic aspects of bilingualism
- Develop methods for teaching English language arts to English learners
- Implement methods for teaching content area instruction and assessment protocols to English learners
- Program Description: The program consists of five courses that cover the following topics:
- Psychology and Sociology of Language and Bilingualism
- Literacy Development for First and Second Language Learners
- Content Area Instruction for Linguistically/Culturally Diverse Learners
Careers:
- Career Options: Graduates of the program are eligible to become teachers of English as a Second Language in all New York State schools.
- Opportunities: The program prepares participants for various teaching roles, including:
- Teaching in a general education classroom while supporting ENL students
- Working in a self-contained ENL class or pull-out model
- Teaching in a dual language classroom
- Serving as an ENL coordinator or curriculum specialist
St. John's University
Overview:
St. John's University is a Catholic and Vincentian institution that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, focusing on six core values: Truth, Love, Respect, Opportunity, Excellence, and Service. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with flexible options for online, hybrid, and in-person learning.
Services Offered:
St. John's University provides students with various services, including:
Academic Service-Learning (AS-L):
Students can participate in service projects that integrate academic learning with community engagement.Nondegree Programs:
The university offers nondegree programs in areas like English language, American culture, professional development, and exchange programs.High School Student Programs:
Through the College Advantage Program, high school students can earn college credit at a discounted rate.Student Life and Campus Experience:
St. John's University offers a vibrant campus experience with:
Diverse Student Body:
The university welcomes students from all over the world, fostering a multicultural environment.Global Opportunities:
Students can study abroad in locations like Rome, Paris, and Limerick, immersing themselves in different cultures.Campus Location:
The main campus is located in Queens, NY, offering a blend of suburban tranquility and urban excitement.Key Reasons to Study There:
Holistic Education:
St. John's University emphasizes a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experiences.Focus on Service:
The university encourages students to engage in service activities and make a positive impact on the world.Global Citizenship:
St. John's University fosters global citizenship by providing opportunities for students to study abroad and interact with diverse cultures.Academic Programs:
Undergraduate Programs:
St. John's University offers over 100 undergraduate majors and programs of study.Graduate Programs:
The university provides a range of graduate programs designed to help students advance their careers or explore new avenues of study.Fine Arts Program:
The Fine Arts program at St. John's University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a minor in Psychology.Other:
St. John's University is a Catholic and Vincentian institution with a strong emphasis on service and social justice. The university's core values are woven into every aspect of its operations, creating a supportive and inclusive environment for students.
Entry Requirements:
- A master's degree
- Official transcripts showing a B (3.0 GPA) or better average
- New York State initial teacher certification or eligibility for teaching certification. Entry into the TESOL program is open to those students who hold initial certification in early childhood, elementary or childhood, middle childhood, secondary or adolescent education, literacy or special education. Students who do not hold initial certification should apply to the joint M.S.Ed. program in Childhood Education and TESOL.
- International students are not required to hold initial certification
- Proficiency in English. Students who have foreign academic credentials must demonstrate proficiency in English at the start of the program by passing oral language, and written reading and writing proficiency tests in English administered by the University's ESL Department. Students who do not demonstrate adequate English language proficiency will be required to take ESL course work to bring their English language proficiency up to the required level, as recommended by the ESL Director.