TESL Certificate

Introduction A Unique Program Course Summary


Teaching English as a Second Language

TWU and CanIL's TESL Certificate Program is a comprehensive university program that provides an overview, theories, and practical teaching techniques for various learning styles, age groupings, and levels in teaching English as a second or foreign language. We believe that a language teacher must be a language expert; that teaching is a skill that is best learned from practice and reflection; and that good teaching is student centered but teacher facilitated. It is a practical, one-year program that includes:

Educators with TESL training are very marketable, especially in a cultural environment as diverse as Canada. Training in TESL is also very valuable for overseas teaching and an excellent preparation for missions and cross-cultural experiences. Consider the diversity a TESL Certificate will give you.

The TESL program is directed toward four main groups of people:

  1. Individuals with a bachelor's degree who would like a TESL Certificate.
  2. Current university students wishing to pursue a TESL emphasis in their undergraduate program, achieving an Applied Linguistics - TESL minor or concentration.
  3. Current teachers looking to strengthen their TESL skills through certification and practical experience.
  4. Individuals, without a bachelor's degree, who would like a Letter of Achievement in TESL.

Students entering in the summer or fall semesters may complete the program within one year. During the fall and winter semesters, courses are offered in evening and weekend formats to allow students to continue employment while upgrading or changing careers. The summer session linguistics courses are in conjunction with Canada Institute of Linguistics. Students pursuing the certificate in one year, should expect to take between 9 and 12 semester hours in fall, winter, and summer semesters. Students that prefer a less intensive pursuit of the certificate, may wish to take one or two courses per semester, thus completing the program within two or three years.