Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Break Through Language Barriers
The Graduate Certificate in Teaching English Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) prepares educators to work with Multilingual Learners (MLs) in both U.S. and international contexts. Coursework provides students with knowledge of applied linguistics, language acquisition theories, and methods of teaching.
The Certificate is designed for students at various stages in their careers, including:
- Seasoned content area educators or leaders who seek to enhance their expertise in teaching MLs;
- Recent college graduates or career-switchers who are interested in exploring the area of MLs teaching without earning a full Master’s degree;
- Individuals who wish to teach English internationally in private English language schools or through worldwide exchange programs; or
- Current graduate students in education who would like to augment their skills and qualifications with documented expertise in teaching English.
Real World Experience
Students apply foundational concepts in TESOL through course discussions and experiences in classrooms in and around the nation’s capital.
Designed For You
Course assignments and experiences are tailored to students' interests and career goals, from teaching in international settings to supporting ELs in U.S. elementary and secondary classrooms.
Accessible World-Wide
The certificate program is offered fully online, making this program available to you wherever you are in the world.
The GW Advantage
Dual enrollment in our certificate and master's programs allows you to shorten time to degree completion. Combine GW certificates and courses to create a program that's tailored to your career vision. Upon successful completion of the certificate, course credits can be applied toward earning a master's in Curriculum and Instruction or International Education.*
*All requirements must be met and student accepted to the master's program
Degree:
Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Department:
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Course Delivery:
-Main Campus
-Online
Program Entry:
Spring, Summer
- Our Mission
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The mission of the Graduate Certificate in Teaching English Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program is to prepare educators to work with multilingual learners (MLs) in both U.S. and international contexts.
- Curriculum
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The following requirements must be fulfilled: 12 credits in required courses.
Course List Code Title Required CPED 6551 Second Language Instructional Methods CPED 6556 Linguistic Applications in English as a Second Language CPED 6557 Second Language Acquisition CPED 6627 Teaching Second Language Reading and Writing - Program Outcomes
- By the end of this program, students will gain expertise in TESOL and second language acquisition that will open doors to potential teaching opportunities within the U.S. and internationally. With the influx of U.S. students who speak different languages, administrators prioritize hiring content area teachers who can demonstrate expertise in serving multilingual learners. Paired with a content area specialization, the Graduate Certificate in TESOL makes prospective teachers competitive for teaching and leadership positions in schools serving culturally and linguistically diverse students and positions teachers to pursue opportunities in the flourishing area of English language teaching.
Apply Now
GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD >
To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at education@gwu.edu or 202-994-9283.
| Apply Now | Schedule Consultation with Admissions Counselor |
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To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.
- Prerequisite: Bachelor's Degree
- Resume
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- Statement of Purpose
- Two Letters of Recommendation
*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants.
For more information on any of these requirements, please visit our Admissions FAQs page.
The deadline for Summer 2023 admission has passed. For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at education@gwu.edu or 202-994-9283.
Tuition & Financial Aid
We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.
Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.
The tuition rate* for the Graduate Certificate in TESOL program is $1,205 per credit hour. This program requires 12 credits.
Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.
*Summer 2023, Fall 2023, Spring 2024
The TESOL certificate program has been a great addition to my professional skill set. I have been informally tutoring English language learners in my community for several years without formal training. Going through this program has helped me to gain concrete and tangible skills that I have been able to implement immediately in my work. My classes are better organized, more intentionally structured, and have led to increased gains amongst my students.
MALIKA HOOK MUHAMMAD ('23)
Graduate Certificate in TESOL
Career Outlook
Gaining expertise in TESOL opens the door to potential teaching opportunities within the U.S. and internationally. With the influx of U.S. students who speak different languages, administrators prioritize hiring content area teachers who can demonstrate expertise in serving ELs.
Paired with a content area specialization, the Graduate Certificate in TESOL makes prospective teachers competitive for teaching and leadership positions in schools serving culturally and linguistically diverse students. The certificate positions teachers to pursue opportunities in the flourishing area of English language teaching.
- Potential Employment Settings
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Possible career directions include teaching and leadership positions in:
- Elementary or secondary schools
- Private language schools
- Community volunteer language programs
- International English language programs
- International exchange programs (e.g., Fulbright English Teaching Assistants, Peace Corps)
Coordinator, Graduate TESOL Certificate