Teaching English as a Second Language Program

Welcome to the Teaching English as a Second Language Program

The Southeastern region of the United States has experienced very rapid growth in the past two decades. Immigrants and their families are coming to this area and adding to our communities and schools. However, there is a shortage of teachers that are prepared to work with immigrant children and the children of immigrants.

The Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program at UNCW offers several programs to help alleviate this shortage, and you can be part of the solution!

ESL add-on license (Graduate and Undergraduate programs)

This non-degree program is designed for teachers who are already in schools but want to become certified to teach ESL. This is a 6-course program of study designed for teachers who do not want another degree. These courses are also appropriate for people who wish to teach English as a Foreign Language abroad. (Student Learning Outcome)

ESL Minor Requirements (21 hours)

Students can receive an official ESL minor by taking the 6 ESL Add-on Courses plus 1 Foreign Language at or above the 200 level. (Student Learning Outcome)

Masters of Education (M.Ed) in TESL

This degree is designed for certified teachers who want to get their master's degree in Teaching English as a Second Language. (Student Learning Outcome)

Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) with a TESL Concentration

This degree is designed for people who already hold a bachelor's degree (in any field) that want to become certified to teach English as a Second Language. (Student Learning Outcome)

TESL Residency Program

UNCW’s 18 credit-hour Residency Licensure program can be completed in just over one year. Courses are taught by dedicated faculty with extensive teaching experience, and the program is designed to accommodate working professionals while providing preparation for effective teaching and learning in the classroom.