Major Requirements

The M.S. degree in Teaching English Language Learners offers students New York State Certification in English for Speakers of Other Language (ESOL). In this program they will become skilled in elementary and secondary instruction for English language learners. Students will gain knowledge of the theories, strategies, and methodologies regarding teaching English to speakers of other languages as well as the socio-cultural and socio-linguistic issues that impact English language learners’ acquisition of English. Admission to this program requires initial New York State Certification in another teaching area along with 12 credits in the same Foreign Language. The Foreign Language choice can NOT be English.

This department is awaiting approval of a proposed option for those who want to earn the NY State Teaching certificate to ‘Teach English to Speakers of Other Languages’ (all grades, PreK-12), but do not already hold a NY teaching certificate in another area. These proposed changes are under review at the time of publication of this catalog. If approved, the new option will begin Summer 2015. If and when changes are approved, they will be posted on our website: soe.syr.edu.