Instruction and Curriculum: Teaching English as a Second Language or Other Language (TESOL)

The Teaching English as a Second or Other Language (TESOL) degree and certificate programs are designed to prepare certified teachers to teach ESL (English as a Second Language) classes. Candidates learn about language acquisition, linguistics, and methods of teaching ESL and EFL (English as a Foreign Language). The Master of Arts and Graduate Certificate programs, at Kean-USA, lead to advanced certification and are offered in a hybrid model, with both asynchronous and synchronous meetings. A New Jersey Standard Instructional Certificate or a Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS) is required for admission.

The Master of Arts in Instruction and Curriculum: Teaching English as a Second or Other Language is available at Wenzhou-Kean University (WKU). The curriculum prepares educators to teach English as a Foreign Language (EFL) across primary, secondary, university, and adult educational settings; and is supported by specialized faculty in applied linguistics and literacy education. The WKU track does not lead to teacher certification.

The University also offers an alternate pathway for certification as a Teacher of English as a Second Language. Through the alternate route program, students who have not completed a formal teacher preparation program, at an accredited college or university, can obtain the necessary training to become a New Jersey certified teacher. This pathway enables candidates to be employed as an ESL teacher while they complete their coursework. A New Jersey Certificate of Eligibility (CE) and proof of employment as a full-time teacher (teacher of record) are required for admission.

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Xurong Kong, Ph.D., instructs Basic Chinese class at Kean University — Xurong Kong, Ph.D., instructs a basic Chinese class at Kean.

What You Learn

Analyze theories, methods and materials designed to teach English language leaders in many contexts
Develop innovative approaches for teaching content and language in multilingual settings
Compare and contrast the process of acquiring language and reading skills in one's native language, and in a second language
Examine languages and cultures by using ethnographic research methods
Identify and assess the emotional and psychological needs of bilingual/bicultural students when adjusting to a different society

Application Deadline
Fall: August 15
Spring: December 15

Admission Requirements

If you have admissions questions, contact Graduate Admissions at gradadmissions@kean.edu or (908) 737-4723.

Teaching English as a Second Language or Other Language M.A.

Course Requirements

Union Coordinator:
Madji Fall, Ph.D.
(908) 737-3863
mfall @kean.edu

Jersey City Coordinator:
Dr. Jeong (Alexis) Kim
jeong.kim@kean.edu

Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language

Course Requirements

Union Coordinator:
Madji Fall, Ph.D.
(908) 737-3863
mfall @kean.edu

Jersey City Coordinator:
Dr. Jeong (Alexis) Kim
jeong.kim@kean.edu

Alternate Route – Teaching English as a Second Language

Course Requirements

Union Coordinator:
Madji Fall, Ph.D.
(908) 737-3863
mfall @kean.edu

Jersey City Coordinator:
Dr. Jeong (Alexis) Kim
jeong.kim@kean.edu

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At Kean, we believe learning and job growth extend far beyond the walls of our classrooms. That's why we encourage you to take advantage of a variety of research opportunities available to you, study abroad and pursue internships that will advance your career or set the stage for another advanced degree.

Research and Presentations

Candidates are encouraged to present at professional forums and education conferences and participate in district- and state-level professional development initiatives.

Internships and Jobs

At Kean, we believe in helping all of our students find internships and jobs that support their career goals. Career services staff provide professional services and offer job fairs and networking events year-round.