The undergraduate Certificate in English as a Second Language is offered by the Department of Educational Specialties.
This certificate prepares certified teachers teach ESL in K-12 classrooms if you hold a valid K-12 certificate; to work as an ESL Adult Education Instructor; to work with city and nonprofit agencies or refugee resettlement agencies as an ESL instructor; or to teach ESL in a private language school.
To receive an undergraduate certificate (at least 15 units) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0.
Please be aware that federal financial aid is not available for some certificates, if the certificate is pursued and completed as a stand-alone certificate (i.e., not completed concurrently with a degree program). See the "Details" tab for additional information.
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 21 |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Required |
Purpose Statement
This certificate prepares candidates for a career as an English as a second language (ESL) classroom teacher, ESL resource teacher, or a teacher responsible for providing ESL instruction and support in the regular classroom or special settings. Candidates gain the knowledge, skills and dispositions for developing ESL skills across reading, writing, and listening, and for involving community and families as partners. They will also leave the program with a historical perspective of English learners in the U.S. Candidates will develop specific skills for assessing English learner proficiency and content area knowledge, and knowledge of various program models. They will become familiar with current research in ESL instruction, and understand how theory can be structured in classroom practice to develop the oral language and literacy skills of all students.
Student Learning Outcomes
Take the following 21 units:
Foundations:
Linguistics
ESL Methods
Teaching Reading and Writing to LEP Students
Assessment of LEP Students
School, Community, Culture, and Parental Involvement
Practicum
This certificate may be pursued and completed concurrently with a degree program or as a stand-alone certificate. Federal financial aid cannot be used if the certificate is completed as a stand-alone certificate.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.