Flexibility is fundamental to Vermont’s graduate programs in TESOL, International Education, TEFL, and ESL teacher licensure. Students can opt for fully online formats, low-residency programs, distance learning, summer institutes, international study for graduate units, interdisciplinary studies incorporating ESL and bilingual education, and traditional on-campus formats.
ESL Teacher Certification
The Vermont Agency of Education (VAE) and the Vermont Standards Board for Professional Educators issue an English Language Learner endorsement as an add-on to a valid teaching certificate. Holders can teach PK-6, 7-12, or PK-12, depending upon their endorsement. Among the requirements for earning the endorsement are completing classes covering:
- Linguistics
- Language Acquisition
- Cultural Diversity
- Assessment
- TESOL Methodology and Curriculum Development
- Program Planning, Consultation, and Coordination
Obtaining the add-on Bilingual Education endorsement requires proof of second language proficiency and courses or background in:
- Bilingual/Multicultural Education
- Sociolinguistics/Psycholinguistics
- English Language Structure
- Language Assessment
Participants must also pass the Praxis II Exam (ELL) to earn the add-on endorsement.
Alternative Certification Options
The Alternate Licensure Route offered by VAE is unique. It entails providing a peer-review process for candidates who have subject-area mastery but who have not graduated from a traditional teacher training program. The four-step process involves individuals assembling a portfolio and other documentation to prove they meet the 16 Principles for Vermont Educators.
Master’s in TESOL Programs
TESOL, international education, and ELL licensure and endorsements are among the program tracks from which students can choose at Saint Michael. The school offers a Master of Arts in TESOL and a Peace Corps Master’s International Program. Acceptance to the Peace Corps is required for enrolling in this program. It also offers a MATESOL + PreK-12 Licensure program and a MATESOL + PreK-12 Endorsement for Licensed Teachers program. One of the top choices for students interested in international education and other global professions, SIT Graduate Institute, also has programs that suit people interested in domestic TESOL. It offers two programs with low-residency options: a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program and a Master of Arts in International Education program. Finally, there’s a Master of Arts in Intercultural Service, Leadership, and Management (Self-Designed) program. This interdisciplinary course of study integrates classes from SIT’s degrees in Conflict Transformation, International Education, and Sustainable Development.