Even if you're pursuing a major in another department, you will benefit from earning our TESOL certificate (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).

Education, foreign language, anthropology, and speech and hearing majors find the certificate particularly helpful as it equips them with a skill set that expands their educational and employment options and further distinguishes them from the competition. Professional and technical communication majors should also consider earning a TESOL certificate (the coursework counts toward the degree's required cognate) as it deepens their understanding of writing and editing and enhances their ability to work with global audiences.

Why study TESOL? English is a global language, the largest second language in the world. Because of its dominance as a world language, the profession of Teaching English as a Second Language is not only in high demand but also ripe for expansion.

A student with TESOL certification has many options professionally: teaching ESL overseas or in the U.S. as a professional, designing curriculum and ESL programs, and working in government agencies. Our TESOL certificate also allows international students to return to their own country and teach ESL.

Is it really worth the extra course work? Absolutely! In a competitive job market and an economic downturn, you should take every opportunity to expand your knowledge and broaden your skill set. The certificate title will appear on your official university transcript, so you can provide your new employer proof of completion.

I want to earn the TESOL certificate. What are my next steps?

Complete four courses with a grade of B or higher. Learn more about the degree requirements.

How do I go about getting an actual certificate?

1. Once you've completed your coursework, apply for certification by contacting the Dean's office.
2. The Dean's office will verify that you have completed the courses with a grade of B or better.
3. The certificate will be sent to the LTC chair, who will sign the form.
4. The LTC chair will return the form to the Dean's office for the dean's signature.
5. The Dean's office sends the form to the Registrar's Office and the certificate is then mailed to you.