Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, Southeast Missouri State University


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Southeast Missouri State University

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Why should I study Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at Southeast?

As an internationally, nationally, and regionally recognized program of excellence, TESOL prepares teachers for the K-12, adult, and college or university setting for teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Graduates appreciate the application of theory to teaching, the hands-on approach to the development of curricula and assessment, the practicum experience, the assistance with the job placement process, and the accessibility and affordability of the training experience. 95% of the teachers in the state of Missouri who have received their TESOL state certification have done so through Southeast Missouri State University. The Program also offers assistance with the job placement process as the student approaches graduation.

Options/Areas of Emphasis: Participants interested in teaching at the postsecondary level (Community College, University or College) may choose to take electives in the areas of composition.

Admissions Requirements: Appropriate G.P.A. at the undergraduate level and a TOEFL score appropriate for graduate study for non-native speakers of English. For more informaiton, please consult the Graduate Bulletin.

Accreditation: North Central Association

Capstone Requirements: There are two options; the thesis or the graduate paper. Students choosing the graduate paper may also choose between comprehensive written exams or the portfolio.

Career Opportunities: Teaching opportunities exist overseas and within the U.S. in the following settings: grades Pre K-12 in public or private schools, Adult Education Programs, College and University Programs, and Intensive English Programs. Teachers interested in teaching in the pre K-12 setting in the United States will need to meet state requirements for certification in addition to the coursework provided in the TESOL program.

Real-World Experience: The TESOL Program requires a 90-contact-hour practical experience before completion of the program. Students may use a current teaching setting to complete the practicum. The work emphasizes the development and implementation of curriculum, assessment tools, and lessons. Placements may be at schools, in an Intensive English Program, in a College or University based ESOL program, or in an Adult Education Program.

Graduate Assistantship Opportunities: Four graduate assistantships are available in our department. Responsibilities include teaching in the University Credit Program or the Intensive English Program. Applicants are to submit an audio recording, three essays or papers written in English, three letters of reference, and an application by Feb. 1 of the year preceding their initial study at the University. For more information please see the graduate assistantship Web site.

Student Organizations: Student membership in MIDTESOL and the international TESOL organization are encouraged. Also the Graduate Student Advisory Council is a student organization at the University

Professional Certificates & Organizations: The training meets the professional guidelines as established by the TESOL organization.

Facilities: Courses are held through interactive television, on-site in communities in Missouri, and over the Web. Faculty are located in the Grauel Buliding and in Pacific Hall.

Research Opportunities: Occasional research opportunities are available in areas related to the field of TESOL.

Teaching Opportunities: Teaching assignments are available in the ESOL Credit Program, the Writing Center, and the Intensive English Program.