Seattle University College of Education and the School of Teaching ESL have created a cooperative agreement that gives students many choices regarding continuing professional development in the teaching of English to speakers of other languages.

Program FAQs

What options do I have to earn a TESOL certificate or ELL Endorsement?

S-TESL offers a variety of class formats that can be applied towards certificates, or the ELL endorsement. Formats may be combined to earn your a certificate or endorsement.

• Four Week Intensive - upon completion earns 12 credits, which can be applied towards a 12 credit certificate, a 24 credit certificate, or the 25 credit endorsment.
• Evening Classes - each class earns 3 credits, which can be applied towards a 12 credit certificate, a 24 credit certificate, or the 25 credit endorsment.
• Online Classes - each class earns 1- 3 credits, which can be applied towards a 12 credit certificate, a 24 credit certificate, or the 25 credit endorsement.
• Summer Intensives - each class earns 3 credits, which can be applied towards a 12 credit certificate, a 24 credit certificate, or the 25 credit endorsement.

What kind of jobs will this TESOL certificate qualify me for?

Completion of a BA + TESOL certificate is a typical requirement for entry-level positions internationally. Other factors (additional education and experience) will determine if you can compete for better positions. It's a good idea to search on the Internet to familiarize yourself with the job market in the area(s) you wish to teach.

In the U.S., a BA + TESOL certificate can qualify you to teach in adult education in private language schools or community ESL classes. Much depends on the local economy. In the U.S., a master's degree is expected for adult education in more competitive areas (such as the Puget Sound region).

Is this TESOL certificate recognized everywhere?

While there is no "standard" TESOL certificate, our graduates have successfully found work all over the world.

The School of Teaching ESL has the credibility of being affiliated with and monitored by an excellent university. People have praised the education they received at the School of Teaching ESL - on the last day of class, and years later from the field. (See Feedback from Graduates.)

The School of Teaching ESL emphasizes decision-making, and the knowledge you need to make the many decisions you will be required to make in your teaching career. A well-seasoned instructional staff helps to prepare you for your next step in TESOL. The 900-level education credits from Seattle University and the Certificate in TESOL awarded by Seattle University will always be of value on your resume

How does S-TESL help with job placement?

First, we prepare you well for the real world in your coursework. Second, we offer a monthly job seminar to help students prepare for a job search. Finally, we share job information via our email discussion list for graduates. We also maintain binders of pertinent information in our student lounge area.

How successful are S-TESL graduates in finding work?

Very successful. Most students who complete our program and are ready to teach, find appropriate settings to meet their goals. See graduates.

Will the TESOL Certificate qualify me to teach in public school?

No. A public school teacher must be state certified. However, we do have an ELL Endorsement program for teachers wishing to add an ELL Endorsement onto their public school certificate.

Why do I need training?

16 Reasons to get your S-TESL TESOL Certificate before you begin teaching:

• You will better understand the needs of your students.
• You will be able to adapt and supplement existing curriculum.
• You will be able to prepare for a language class (set language objectives, create materials, and develop lesson plans for various skill areas).
• You will know how to find additional resources related to language teaching.
• You will have a community of colleagues.
• You will understand how languages are best learned.
• You will be showing respect for your students - and they will respect you more.
• You will have practice working with non-native speakers.
• You will feel more confident in front of a class.
• You will know why you are doing what you are doing.
• You will understand why some things don't work when you try them.
• You will be able to correct your mistakes.
• You will be contributing to a positive image of the English language profession.
• You won't embarrass yourself in front of students and colleagues.
• You won't earn the disdain of the administration.
• You won't contribute to the idea that anyone can teach English if they can speak it.

Read TESOL.org's position statement on certificate training programs.