The certificate program in TESOL is an 18-28 semester hour program designed to prepare Christians to teach English to those whose primary language is not English. The emphasis is upon how this preparation can be used in cross-cultural settings to advance God’s Kingdom. Students may choose one of two tracks. TESOL courses are offered in non-traditional format (e.g. evening courses, intensive courses in January or June, Web-based courses on the Internet, or as independent study courses). Students wishing to complete a TESOL certificate must apply to and be accepted as a student at the University. For more information contact the program director, Miriam Windham.
Program Objectives:
1. Teach ESL/EFL in ways consistent with methods and theories taught in
ES 324, ES 325, and ES 400.
2. Teach and interact with ESL/EFL students in ways appropriate for and considerate of their cultures in accordance with what is taught in ES 323.
3. Assess and evaluate ESL/EFL students’ needs and progress in ways consistent with what is taught in ES 322 and ES 326.
4. Find meaningful places of service during university and after graduation.
Track One: Academic Certificate (18 hours) This track is the standard TESOL program in the U. S., intended for students who, along with a bachelor's degree in another discipline, desire to teach outside the public school system. Students may teach in public schools and universities outside the U.S. as well as in many U.S. settings. This track requires ES 324, ES 325, and ES 400, plus three of the five remaining TESOL courses (which must be approved by the TESOL Certificate program director), for a total of 18 hours. This track works well in the Intercultural Studies elective area.
Track Two: Teacher Certification (18 hours) This track is intended for school teachers who already have state certification (elementary or secondary) but wish to add a secondary endorsement. This track requires all TESOL courses except ES 321 and ES 327 for 15 hours, plus 3 semester hours of practicum (100 clock hours, of which 50 must be in a public school setting). Students in this track are responsible for applying to the State Board of Education for their TESOL certification upon completion.
NOTE: Transfer students must take at least two of the TESOL courses at LCU to qualify for the TESOL certificate.