Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

The Discipline

Preparation to teach English to speakers of other languages involves multidisciplinary course work in a number of areas, including linguistics, language acquisition, language assessment, and teaching methods and materials. The TESOL minor is designed to prepare teachers of English as a second or foreign language in general and offers students the flexibility to choose an emphasis in keeping with their professional interests. (The David O. McKay School of Education offers a minor which leads to an ESL endorsement. See Teaching English Language Learners)

Career Opportunities

TESOL minors are qualified for many overseas positions teaching English as a foreign language. They may also work in various ESL programs in the United States and other English-speaking countries. Possible teaching settings include adult community ESL classes, intensive English programs, and English for special purposes such as business or health.