All of Wyoming’s graduate education options are found at just one institution, the University of Wyoming. Luckily, the university has made its services accessible to students throughout the state, country, and world by having classes and program delivery with a global emphasis. There is a traditional Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction that includes the core classes for an ESL endorsement. The university’s several outreach schools also administer degrees, licenses, and add-on endorsements. Other program formats include video conferences, intensive weekend institutes, audio conferences, and web-based instruction.
ESL Teacher Certification
The Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB) states that there are two options for obtaining an ESL endorsement on a valid credential. The traditional route is via Institutional Recommendation, in which an educator has completed a PTSB-approved series of courses in a subject area as part of a teacher preparation or designated teacher certificate endorsement program. The alternative route to endorsement is via Demonstration of Competency, in which a teacher submits transcripts showing a major or minor with subject equivalency in ESL or bilingual education that totals 27 semester hours.
Alternative Certification Options
One of the few non-traditional routes to teaching in Wyoming is through the Northern Plains Transition to Teaching (NPTT) program. Offered at Montana State University-Bozeman, this grant-funded course of study allows participants to work in high-needs areas of Wyoming public schools while completing PTSB criteria for full licensure.
Master’s in TESOL Programs
University of Wyoming offers a Master of Arts in Education with Concentration in Curriculum and Instruction. This course of study includes an option for earning an endorsement in Early Childhood, English as a Second Language certification, Literacy certification, or Teachers of American Indian Children certification. The Global and Area Studies program has two options for graduate students seeking experience in international studies and careers: the Master of International Studies, and the Masters International Peace Corps Curriculum. Participants must concurrently apply to the Peace Corps for this option.