The graduate certificate in teaching English as a second language (TESL) focuses on the applied aspects of English linguistics. The program offers courses in phonetics, grammar, second language acquisition, teaching ESL, and a practicum.
It prepares students to teach non-native speakers of English in the United States or abroad. Certificate courses fulfill, in part, requirements for an endorsement in English as a second language to the Virginia state teaching credential. Students who want to earn this endorsement should consult with an advisor.
The certificate may be pursued concurrently with any of several degree programs offered through the College of Education and Human Development, the English Department, and the Modern and Classical Languages Department. Part of the course work toward the certificate may be applied toward degrees in those departments.
The graduate certificate in teaching English as a second language may be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis.
This certificate program qualifies for Title IV Federal Financial Aid. For more information about program graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit the disclosure information page at: http://irr.gmu.edu/new/N_IRRHome/HEOA/Gainful.cfm
Degree Requirements (Catalog Year 2013-2014)
In addition to meeting the following requirements for this certificate, students must meet the university requirements for all graduate certificates.
Students pursuing this certificate must complete 18 credits, earning a minimum grade of 3.00 in each course.
Six required courses (18 credits)
LING 520 - Introduction to Linguistics - Credits: 3
LING 521 - Applied Linguistics: Teaching English as a Second Language - Credits: 3
LING 522 - Modern English Grammar - Credits: 3
LING 523 - English Phonetics - Credits: 3
LING 525 - Practicum in ESL - Credits: 3
LING 582 - Second Language Acquisition - Credits: 3
Total: 18 credits
Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.