With the recent explosion of English as a world language, there are many opportunities for well-trained teachers of English as a Second Language (ESL) in nearly every area of the globe. Even in the U.S., the constant arrival of immigrants with limited English skills has spurred the development of thousands of ESL programs. Universities in the U.S. generally require that their ESL teachers hold at least the M.A. degree. But employers in most nations abroad, as well as ESL programs sponsored by community colleges, social service organizations, and worksites in the U.S., often seek teachers with a TESOL certificate of the sort offered at UWM.
The Adult/University-Level TESOL Certificate Program is designed for students who have not yet completed the bachelor's degree, or who have already earned the bachelor's degree but have no plans to continue with an M.A. degree in TESOL. Please note that while courses in the undergraduate certificate are the same as those in the graduate certificate, credits taken in the undergraduate certificate are generally not transferable to the graduate degree program.
The Adult/University-Level Graduate Certificate Program is designed for students who already hold the bachelor's degree. Up to six credits earned in this program are transferable to the degree program should the student decide to apply to the M.A. in TESOL.
NB: Students interested in receiving accreditation to teach ESL in the public schools should contact the School of Education.
They offer practical experience, as well as theoretical instruction, in teaching. All certificate program students complete a teaching internship, where they get actual classroom experience under the guidance of a veteran ESL instructor. Internship placements are available in the Milwaukee area and elsewhere.
Apply to the Adult/University-Level TESOL Certificate Programs
