Program Overview
Credits: 120 credits with at least 36 credits in the academic content area of specialization.
Becoming an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher will provide you with unique multicultural opportunities in a growing field around the world and in our local schools. As a student in our Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program, you’ll be encouraged to explore theories, strategies, and methodologies in teaching English language learners, facilitate the process for them, and navigate the journey of education within the global context of our communities.
Once you successfully complete our program and pass New York state testing requirements, you’ll qualify for initial teacher certification in New York to teach English to speakers of other languages at any grade level.
Extensive Field Experience
You’ll blend theory with practice here, as our Education students begin observational experiences in schools in their first semester at Niagara. You’ll develop skills and gain direct experience to eventually take on planning and leadership roles in the classroom.
Personal Instruction and Advisement
Due to our small class sizes, you’ll have the benefit of direct interactions with faculty and regularly meet with an advisor who will work with you for the entirety of your college career.
First Semester Coursework
Our Education students have relevant coursework in every semester beginning on day one, helping you understand the profession and solidify your decision to become a teacher.
Discovery Awaits
What You’ll Study at Niagara University
All of our Education programs include a blend of general education, major academic concentration, professional education, and comprehensive field experiences. These components of the curriculum are designed as a sequential, coherent program of study that culminates in a comprehensive and supervised student teaching experience.
As a teacher candidate, you’ll also be expected to develop and demonstrate professional commitment and relationships, responsibility, critical thinking, and reflected practice. These core skill sets are assessed in courses, field experiences, and student teaching.
Find Your Best Self
Knowledge, Experience, and Skill Development
Confidence in the classroom, thanks to field experiences beginning in your first semester
Professional commitment to responsibility and ethical relationships
Critical thinking skills
Prepare to Soar
Academic, Experiential, and Career Pathways
Related Programs
- American Sign Language, Minor »
- Dance, Minor »
- Theatre Studies, Minor »
- Literacy, Minor
- Graduate Education programs
Opportunities
Classroom experiences throughout the area
Niagara University Future Teachers Association
Careers
Teacher certification in New York state
Certification in 46 reciprocity states
Teaching in foreign countries
Assistance into Ontario College of Teachers for eligibility
Median salary for ESL Teachers $60,550 per year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Ready to Apply?
Filling out an application is easy!
NU offers rolling admissions, which means that you can apply at any time for the upcoming semester. Applications are reviewed as they come in, and students are typically notified of an admission decision in 3-4 weeks. What’s stopping you?
Apply Now