The Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) minor prepares candidates for becoming K-12 ESL teachers and attaining the K-12 ESL license. This program includes both foundational coursework as well as a student teaching experience. This license is most often sought in conjunction with another licensure area, the most common combinations being with Elementary Education, K-12 World Languages, Secondary Social Studies, or Secondary Communication Arts (English).

What You’ll Gain

• 140 hours of field experience working with English Learners from a variety of language and cultural backgrounds in Minnesota
• An additional 600 hours of classroom exposure during 16 weeks of student teaching
• A background of who English Learners are, and how to help them succeed in academics
• A solid understanding of how the English language works, and how to teach it
• Opportunities to collaborate with students and teachers who work with English Learners at multiple grade levels between kindergarten and 12 ^th grade
• An understanding of immigration trends, policies and program types utilized in Minnesota schools

Coursework

Interested in the courses that this program includes? Check out the content (major) courses and foundational education (minor) courses.

Admission to TESL Education

Interested in the TESL Education program? Learn about the application process to the department and how to prepare. 

Seeking Licensure

For students pursuing a Minnesota teaching in K-12 Teaching English as a Second Language, Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations are also required. Students must complete the following exams:

• Pedagogy: Elementary or Secondary
• Content:  English as a Second Language, grades K-12

For more information regarding licensing, please see Apply for Licensure. Additional questions regarding licensing can be directed to the Program Coordinator. Teacher candidates are reminded of MTLEs prior to student teaching and receive instructions on the application to their license near the completion of their student teaching experience. It is recommended that teacher candidates complete the MTLEs for their applicable license just prior to student teaching. Spring student teachers should be especially proactive in registering early for these examinations.

Teaching English as an International Language (TEIL)

This minor does not lead to a Minnesota Teaching License. Instead, the TEIL minor prepares students from any major to teach English abroad. This minor does not include a student teaching experience.

What You’ll Gain

• Training in English grammar and pronunciation rules for English language teachers
• Lesson and activity planning ideas and practice
• A supervised clinical teaching experience working with English Learners of an age group that interests you
• Advising related to seeking an English teaching job overseas

Coursework

Interested in the courses that this program includes? Check out the content (major) courses and foundational education (minor) courses.

Admission to TEIL Education

Interested in the TEIL Education program? Learn about the application process to the department and how to prepare. 

Seeking Licensure

The Teaching English as an International Language is a non-licensure program. CSB/SJU is not approved to recommend candidates that have completed this program for licensure.