Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
The Undergraduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is designed for undergraduate students from any major and non-degree-seeking individuals interested in developing expertise in teaching English to multilingual learners. This program offers a flexible, four-semester pathway to gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in TESOL, making it ideal for those seeking to enhance their academic qualifications or pursue global teaching opportunities.
The online certificate program covers key areas such as language acquisition, teaching methodologies, cross-cultural communication, and classroom management. Students will gain the necessary skills to effectively teach English to non-native speakers, with a focus on fostering cultural competence and positive global engagement. In addition, the program prepares in-service K-12 teachers for the Praxis II-ESOL exam, enabling them to earn ESL Add-on licensure through the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
The TESOL Certificate program requires a total of 12 semester hours, with at least six credits taken directly at NC State. Participants must maintain a C average in all courses to remain in good academic standing. The program is a valuable credential for those seeking to teach domestically or abroad, as well as those looking to document their expertise for scholarship, employment, or graduate school opportunities.
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Eligibility
Current NC State undergraduate students must have a minimum 2.0 grade point average to be accepted into this program. Non-NC State students must be registered with the university as non-degree seeking (NDS) students.
Plan of Study
The Undergraduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) requires a total of 12 credit hours. At least six credit hours must be taken at NC State. The remaining credit hours may be taken through affiliate programs or satisfied by transfer credit.
Note: Continuing and Lifelong Education sponsors a one-semester TESOL Certificate Program which involves non-credit bearing courses with an internship experience. Visit the Continuing and Lifelong Education website to learn more.
Career Prospects
Teachers of multilingual learners focusing on English language skills are in growing demand across a variety of educational and community settings. Opportunities span K-12 public and private schools, adult education centers, community colleges, international language institutes, nonprofit organizations, and corporate language training programs.
Many graduates also pursue teaching roles abroad, where English instruction remains a key pathway to economic and educational mobility. In the United States, the need for qualified educators to support English learners continues to rise.
Employers in these settings seek candidates with specialized training in language instruction methodologies, an understanding of language acquisition, and the ability to create inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments. Practical experience, such as classroom-based practicum or work with community language learners, is highly valued.
Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a demonstrated commitment to supporting multilingual learners are also critical.
Earning the Undergraduate Certificate in TESOL signals to employers, graduate schools, and providers of scholarships that the student has received high-quality, research-based training and practical experience specifically designed to prepare educators to meet the diverse needs of English learners in today’s classrooms and communities.