ESL/TESOL Degree Programs
ESL (English as a Second Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) professionals are those who work to help people learn the English language proficiently. This career is in high demand for degreed professionals, which is why many people are entering ESL/TESOL degree programs. From elementary education to professional training, there are many environments that require the skills of an ESL/TESOL instructor. Many graduates will follow such a degree program with official state licensure as a teacher.
An ESL/TESOL instructor works with people from many different cultures. Therefore, one of the main focuses of the degree program’s curriculum will be on clearly communicating with those who are culturally different. Combating language barriers will only be part of the learning process when pursuing an ESL/TESOL degree, however. One must learn how to clearly instruct others to proficiently read and write in English. This is no easy feat, making the degree and career a challenge for many.
There are several requirements to being accepted into an ESL/TESOL degree program. However, they might vary slightly according to school and level of degree. A bachelor’s degree in education with a focus on ESL/TESOL will require applicants to possess a high school diploma or GED. Those seeking a graduate-level degree in the same discipline will likely need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Academic references and a minimum GPA may also be considered for all applicants. Those who are bilingual or even multilingual will find the most success in this field of study.
Upon completion of an ESL/TESOL degree program, those without a teaching license will want to seek official licensure from the state in which they seek employment. An undergraduate degree will also pave the way to a graduate degree, which always increases a professional’s earning potential. There is currently a high demand for ESL/TESOL teachers, as immigration rates are higher than ever. It is important to aid people who wish to integrate with the culture and the biggest obstacle is often learning English. This is, in fact, a noble career and one that offers many job opportunities for those with an ESL/TESOL degree.
