ESL Program Specialist Certificate

Overview

Saint Joseph’s University’s English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Specialist certificate prepares individuals who possess Level I or Level II instructional certification to teach non-native speakers of English to be proficient in speaking, reading and writing English.

What is the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Specialist Certificate?

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Specialist certificate at Saint Joseph's University is a 16-credit program that satisfies the Pennsylvania state education requirements for preparation to teach English as a second language.

This certificate is available to those who currently possess a Pennsylvania Instructional I or Instructional II teaching certificate. Delivered online, the ESL certificate program offers a convenient and flexible option for certified teachers to expand their skills and knowledge in this area and earn certification in as little as three semesters.

What Can I do with an ESL Program Specialist certificate?

The ESL Program Specialist certificate may be added as part of a Reading Specialist certification or as part of an M.S. Ed. Reading Specialist program track. After successful completion of five graduate courses and field experience hours, candidates may submit documentation to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which will issue a program specialist certificate for ESL.

How will the ESL Program Specialist certificate from Saint Joseph's University Enhance Your Career?

The ESL certificate program is taught by expert faculty who integrate readings, discussion and field experiences into coursework. The curriculum covers the theory and practice of second language education for English language learners (ELL), the design and assessment of ESL course materials and broader issues in intercultural learning.

View Curriculum and Courses

Length	8-12 months.
Credits	16 credits
Start Terms	Rolling admission; Spring, summer or fall.
Format	Online.
Tuition for 2022-2023	$812 per credit hour. Learn more about our tuition & fees.
Stack this Certificate into a Master's Program	This certificate may be added as part of the M.S. in Education — Reading Specialist PK-12 program.
Requirements	You must have a bachelor’s degree and a valid Pennsylvania Instructional I or Instructional II certificate.
Admission Information	To learn more about the admission process and required materials, Graduate Admission can provide more information or answer any questions.
Financial Aid	Scholarships, federal and state grants, loans and other types of financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Our Office of Financial Aid can help you understand your options.**certificate.
Discount Eligibility	Alumni of Saint Joseph's are eligible to receive 10% off the cost of this program through our alumni discount. Completed a year or more of service with a recognized service organization? You may be eligible for our mission discount. Check with your employer to see if they are an Edcor or a Bright Horizons EdAssist member, which may entitle you to a discount on graduate programs. *note - discounts cannot be combined.
Veterans	Saint Joseph's is a Yellow Ribbon School that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans Services can help you access and understand your benefits.

Education MS — Elementary/Middle School 4-8

Saint Joseph’s University’s Master of Science in education, elementary/middle school, will prepare you for initial instructional certification.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification

Saint Joseph's University's Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education PK-12 Certification program is designed to serve those interested in the education of the 40 to 50% of children impacted by hearing loss.