Master's of Education (M.Ed.) in TESL
(Designed for experienced teachers)

Overview:  The M.Ed. program in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) qualifies graduates who already hold an "A" level teaching license for add-on K-12 licensure to teach English as a second language in both public and private school settings.

Program Objectives: As prospective teachers of English as a second language, graduates of the program are prepared to:

·        Possess instructional skills that enable them to teach in diverse setting

·        Recognize how diverse languages, cultures, family backgrounds, and abilities affect the learning of English as a second language, as well as affirm students’ native languages and cultures

·        Adapt lessons for language minority students; thus, increasing their access to and participation in the total curriculum;

·        Identify and implement curriculum theories and practices relevant to human development and learning;

·        Be well grounded in current trends and research in English as a Second Language, and be able to conduct action research;

·        Acquire the leadership skills to share their knowledge of ESL instruction with mainstream teachers and other professionals.

Master's of Arts  in Teaching (MAT) in ESL
(Designed for those seeking licensure in N.C.)

Overview:  The M.A.T Program in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) is a 39 hour program designed to prepare teachers to work with K-12 and adult ESL (English as a Second Language) and EFL (English as a Foreign Language) students. The Program offers two options for candidates.  They may choose to complete only Phase One, also called the fast-track licensure program to earn the “A” license in TESL.  The second option is to complete the entire MAT program, earning  an “A” license at the completion of Phase One and the “M” license after two years of teaching experience and the completion of Phase Two.

Program Objectives: As prospective teachers of English as a second language, graduates of the program are prepared to:

·        Demonstrate understanding of concepts, theories, research, and practice relating to language acquisition and literacy development of LEP students;

·        Apply effective methods, practices, and strategies based on second language acquisition theories and research to plan, implement, and manage ESL and content instruction;

·        Use a variety of assessments related to the education of LEP students

·        Recognize how diverse languages, cultures, family backgrounds, and abilities affect the learning of English as a second language, as well as affirm students’ native languages and cultures

·        Affirm that all students with limited English proficiency can learn English

·        Stay current on research, trends, policies, and legal mandates affecting ESL programs

·        Collaborate within the educational community and serve as resources and models for their peers to enhance learning and encourage cross-cultural interaction

**Conceptual Framework for the Education of Professional Educators**