With increasing linguistic diversity among K–12 students, all teachers need hands-on skills in supporting multilingual learners (MLs). The mission of our ESL certification is to empower in- and pre-service teachers with the skills they need to nurture the language and academic learning of MLs.
Overview
As a Second Language (ESL) program specialist, certification allows educators with their initial certifications or those currently pursuing certification to become certified ESL teachers. Proficiency in a second language is not required to enroll.
For MLs, ESL teachers are vital to their ability to learn. With the goal of expanding MLs’ learning opportunities, the program will advance educators’ knowledge and use of evidence-based instructional practices to support the learning and second language development of MLs in K-12 schools. With the understanding that MLs often have inequitable learning opportunities, this certification also seeks to assist educators in being agents of social change in their schools and districts.
Application Requirements
- Transcripts, minimum GPA of 3.0 (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): July 15 for fall start, December 15 for spring start and April 15 for summer start. The application and all supporting materials are due by the listed deadlines.
Modality: Online
Course Requirements: 5 courses (15 credits)
Typical Course Load: fall (2 courses), spring (2 courses), summer (1 course)
Time to Completion: 1 - 2 years
Practical Experience Component: Field work is an important part of this program. Students who are already teachers have the opportunity to complete the field work at their current schools.
Program Alumni: Graduates work as teachers in both public and private K-12 classrooms.
Please Note: Due to Pennsylvania Department of Education criteria, international students are not eligible for PDE certification. Lehigh is unable to provide immigration sponsorship for this program.
Career Opportunities
With ESL certification, K-12 educators can:
- Teach ESL and English Language Development (ELD) classes
- Become linguistically and culturally responsive general education and special education teachers
- Lead and coordinate their school district’s ML departments
Lehigh’s ESL certification program is 15 credits and can be done in as little as 12 months with classes available online and in the evenings.
Curriculum
All courses are 3 credits, unless otherwise noted. Course descriptions can be found in the course catalog.
| course number | course name |
|---|---|
| EDUC 391 | Educational Linguistics |
| EDUC 419 | Second Language Acquisition |
| EDUC 420 | Contemporary Issues in Multilingual Learner Education |
| EDUC 423 | Curriculum and Materials Design for Multilingual Learners |
| SPED 404 | Cultural and Linguistic Diversity |
Faculty & Staff
Donna Toothman
Program Coordinator, Teaching, Learning, and Technology & Special Education Programs
Dr. Sara Kangas
Associate Professor and Program Director
