Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), B.A.

The B.A. in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is your chance to make a difference and become a teacher of English as a second language. You will discover how languages are learned, explore the best ways to teach, and build cross-cultural communication skills. Hands-on teaching experience is gained through classroom observations and multiple practical opportunities, including student teaching.

You will explore topics like the nature of languages and their acquisition, the challenges of immigration, and the latest teaching and assessment techniques. You will also learn how to create effective lessons, develop curriculum, assess student progress, and use technology to make learning more exciting and accessible. After completion of the program, you will be prepared to pursue careers in teaching English as a second language (ESL) or English as a foreign language (EFL) in various educational settings, both domestically and internationally.

Program Requirements ››

Program Features

The program combines in-depth theoretical coursework with practical teaching experience through supervised placements in local schools.

Highlights

The program can be completed within 4 years with appropriate planning.
The program can be completed alongside another B.A. or B.S. major with the total of 120 credit hours. As a result of completing two majors, candidates can get certified in TESOL and a content area for a range of grades from PreK-12.
The program is appropriate for high school students, transfer students, or anyone who would like to change their career.
Financial aid is available to qualified students.

Introduction to linguistics
Second language acquisition theory
Bilingual education
Methods of teaching English as a second and foreign language
Immigration issues
Multiliteracy
Multiculturalism

Learning Outcome 1: Make sure all students, no matter their language level or needs, get the support they need to learn and grow.
Learning Outcome 2: Use innovative technology and digital tools to make learning languages more exciting and impactful.
Learning Outcome 3: Create engaging lesson plans that help multilingual students improve their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Learning Outcome 4: Understand and celebrate different cultures and languages to make everyone feel included and respected.
Learning Outcome 5: Use different ways to check how well students are doing and adjust lessons to help everyone succeed.
Learning Outcome 6: Keep learning and improving as a teacher by reflecting on your work and finding new ways to grow.

Concentrations

Teaching English (TESOL)

TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) concentration prepares students to teach English to Multilingual Learners in various settings. It covers theoretical, methodological, and pedagogical aspects of second language teaching and learning. The concentration includes coursework in linguistics, language acquisition, teaching methods, and cultural awareness. Students learn to develop curriculum, assess language skills, and adapt teaching strategies for diverse learners. The concentration offers practical experience through supervised student teaching. Graduates can pursue careers teaching English in a variety of PreK–12 settings.

Combining B.A. TESOL with another Major/Concentration

Students have an opportunity to pursue TESOL and another concentration. For example, students interested in Social Studies or Chemistry may get a BA in TESOL and a BA in History or Chemistry. As a result, they will achieve initial certification in TESOL PreK-12 and a cross-endorsement in History or Chemistry 7-12 by simply passing an additional Praxis II exam.

Careers

TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) teachers are in high demand not only in Connecticut but also across the U.S. and around the world. In Connecticut, there’s a shortage of teachers qualified to help students learn English, especially as the number of immigrant families and Multilingual Learners grows. Globally, English is one of the most widely spoken languages, creating a constant need for teachers in schools, language centers, and international programs. This means there are many job opportunities for TESOL teachers at all grade levels, both locally and internationally.

Typical Job Titles

ESL (English as a Second Language) Teacher
EFL (English as a Foreign Language) Teacher
K-12 ESL Teacher
Adult ESL Educator
Online English Teacher
English Language Instructor
Academic English Instructor
Corporate Language Trainer
Exam Preparation Coach (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
Curriculum Developer

Accreditation

The program is approved by the Connecticut State Department of Education and fully accredited.