What you will study
The University of Central Missouri’s TESL graduate certificate is designed to help
you understand the process of learning an additional language. At the same time, you’ll
come to understand the specific needs of working with culturally and linguistically
diverse students both in the U.S. and overseas. Our graduate courses in teaching English
as a second language combine theory with direct, hands-on experience in all the facets
of working as a professional in the ESL field.
These are among some of the most popular courses:
- Language and Culture: Explore the fascinating nature of culture and its impact on perceptions, communication,
behavior and ways of learning, emphasizing its influence on school achievement. This
course will help you better understand your students and the ways you can help them
succeed.
- English as a Second Language Practicum: Take this hands-on course for the opportunity to both observe and teach in an ESL
classroom. You’ll design lessons and teach while being observed by a faculty member,
then receive authentic feedback from your observer to improve your skills over time
with repeated observation.
- Advanced Teaching Methods for TESL: This course focuses on skills that teachers will be expected to have to be successful
ESL/EFL or TESOL educators. You’ll complete multiple tutoring projects that consist
of needs assessments, training and follow-up testing to determine the success of your
interventions.
Unique learning opportunities in ESL, EFL, TESL and TESOL
The University of Central Missouri’s graduate certificate program in Teaching English
as a Second Language focuses heavily on hands-on, practical application of coursework
for a truly guided learning experience.
- First-hand experience: Through courses such as English as a Second Language Practicum and Advanced Teaching
Methods for TESL, you’ll gain first-hand experience in teaching and tutoring. As a
result, you’ll develop advanced skills in assessments, training, testing, interventions
and more.
- Professional Certificate: Unlike many colleges in Missouri, UCM’s TESL graduate certificate program includes
a field practicum that gives you the experience employers seek, both in the U.S. and
abroad.
What can you do with a Teaching English as a Second Language graduate certificate
from UCM?
The University of Central Missouri’s graduate TESL certificate provides you with the
training needed to take your ESL/EFL education skills to institutions at home and
abroad. Upon certification, you’ll have the requisite skills to pursue many different
and exciting jobs at schools and learning institutions all over the world, including:
- Adult and higher education English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher
- English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teacher (overseas)
- ESL program administrator
- English language proficiency (ELP) test developer
- ELP assessment rater
- Positions within community-based organizations
Explore careers in TESL
TESL certification can open up a wide variety of career opportunities for you around
the globe. Use the interactive tool below to explore the possibilities and get information
on job outlooks, potential earnings and more.
Financial assistance options for your TESL graduate certificate
Pursuing your graduate certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language shouldn’t
have to break the bank. At the University of Central Missouri, our programs remain
some of the most affordable for students in the state and across the country. Plus,
we’ve been recognized as one of the top overall universities in the country for low
student debt by LendEDU.
Students earning their TESL graduate certificate are not eligible for aid, but if
you’re also enrolled in a degree program at the same time as the TESL graduate certificate
program, you may be able to benefit from many scholarships and awards. You can learn
more about program-specific scholarships with the .
Meet Our Faculty
Dr. Christina Kitson, program coordinator
Dr. Kitson’s research on the issues of assessment, use of computers in learning and
ELL teacher certification policies make her a valuable resource for TESL students
preparing to enter the workforce.
Meet Alieya W.
MSE English Language Learners ’21, TESL Graduate Certificate ’22
“The idea of being able to travel and teach was very appealing to me. Since joining
the UCM TESL program, I have learned a lot about the background of the English language
as well as the obstacles that students may face when learning. Overall, I have learned
that this is the program for me and I cannot wait to start teaching.”
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