Teacher with students and flashcards

Certificate, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Overview

The TESOL certificate is a fully online program for individuals who wish to teach English to non-native speakers but who do not need the English as a Second Language certification required to teach ESL in U.S. public schools.

Those seeking a TESOL certificate are looking to gain skills in teaching linguistically diverse populations. This program focuses on how individuals learn language and how to support them as they acquire English, whether it be in adult education classes, schools overseas or other settings. 

To earn the TESOL certificate, students take four online courses (12 credits), completing the certificate in as little as two semesters. 

Application Requirements

  • Transcripts, minimum GPA of 2.75 (undergraduate)
  • Proof of English proficiency

Quick Facts

Transcript Evaluations: Evaluations are required for applicants who have earned a degree outside the U.S.

Deadline(s): April 15 deadline for summer start, July 15 for fall start and Dec. 15 for spring start. The application and all supporting materials are due by the listed deadlines.

Modality: Online

Course Requirements: 4 courses (12 credits)

Typical Course Load: fall (1-2 courses), spring (1-2 courses), summer (1-2 courses)

Time to Completion: 1 year

Alumni Current Positions: Our graduates are typically teachers who work for overseas private language schools or public schools but many also teach at universities, international schools or large companies.

Please Note: Lehigh is unable to provide immigration sponsorship for this program. Current Lehigh students with an F-1 visa may enroll in this program concurrently with a degree. Students outside of the US may enroll in this program and complete it entirely online. 

Your best work is ahead.

Curriculum

All courses are 3 credits, unless otherwise noted. Course descriptions can be found in the course catalog.

You will choose three courses from the list below plus an additional approved elective course. 

course numbercourse name
EDUC 391Educational Linguistics
EDUC 419Second Language Acquisition
EDUC 420Contemporary Issues in English Language Learner Education
EDUC 423Curriculum and Materials Design for English Language Learners
SPED/TLT 404Cultural and Linguistic Diversity