The TESL/TEFL Certificate program is being redesigned and is paused until further notice. The information below will be updated once the redesigned program is ready to launch. Please email at ali@sdsu.edu if you have any questions.


Course Outline | Course Curriculum | FAQ

Course Outline

Student-teaching Mentorship
Participants are paired with a mentor teacher in an ESL classroom for 16 dedicated hours of student-teaching practicum. Mentorship takes place twice per week during the times our ESL program classes are in session.

ESL Class Observations
Participants are assigned to observe a variety of ESL classes, levels, and teaching styles. Observation schedules change weekly.

Portfolio Project
Participants create a portfolio project consisting of the design and execution of customized ESL skill-based lessons, reflective assignments, and journals.

Grammar and Methodology Exams
Diagnostic and exit test on grammatical terminology

  • Participants will take ten hours of Grammar for English teachers followed by an extensive final exam.

Exit test of TESL/TEFL methodology and terminology

  • This comprehensive final exam will test participants on their knowledge of ESL/EFL concepts, terms, and applications covered throughout the course modules.

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Curriculum

Throughout the program participants will take a total of ten hours of Grammar for English Teachers. Additionally, each class on the schedule will cover the following themes: 

Theories of Language Teaching & Learning
Methodology, Second Language Acquisition, Communicative Language Learning, Academic and Content Based Language Teaching, and Grammar for English Language Teaching & Learning.

Pedagogical Content Knowledge 
Language Learning Skills: Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing, Test Preparation (TOEFL/IELTS), Vocabulary, Pronunciation, and Grammar.

Managing the Teaching and Learning Process
Lesson Planning, Classroom Management, Intercultural Communication, English as an International Language, Syllabus Design, Using a Learning Management System, and Teaching with Technology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't know English grammar very well?
Most native speakers don't know English grammar well, so we have a dedicated ten-hour grammar component integral to the program which prepares graduates for this part of their future work.

Are the course fees refundable?
See the Official Refund/Withdrawal Policy for more information.

What are the required books for this program?
One course reader is available for purchase through CalCopy. PDF and hard copy versions are available.

What books can I read about teaching EFL?
When you are accepted into the TESL/TEFL Certificate program, you are given a recommended reading list with your acceptance letter.

I don't speak any languages other than English. Will this be a problem?
No. When teaching English, teachers should focus on using only English in the classroom. While knowing the local language of the country is useful, many if not most of the TESL/TEFL graduates have worked successfully without knowing the local language.

Can I be accepted into the TESL/TEFL Certificate program if English is not my first language?
Yes. Non-native applicants are welcome to apply. Applicants must have a high-level command of the English language.

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