TESOL for International Educators

Department of Language, Literacy, and Technology

To have another language is to possess a second soul. Czech Proverb

TESOL for International Educators

The TESOL for International Educators (ITSL) Program is a 30-credit hour program leading to a Master of Science in Education Degree in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) which can be completed in one year of full time study (part-time study option also available).

This program is intended for the student who wishes to learn to teach English Language Learners abroad, or who wishes to teach outside the public school venue in the United States. This master’s degree program is not a teacher certification program for those who want to earn New York State certification to teach in K-12. International students are particularly encouraged to apply.

The program provides students a balanced learning opportunity. Half of the courses are specific to the ITSL cohort which provides a smaller, more supportive learning environment, especially suitable for international students visiting the U.S. The remaining courses provide opportunities for ITSL students to attend a range of classes with other Nazareth College graduate students. Program participants get the best of both worlds.

The ITSL program’s curriculum is guided by a multi-faceted understanding of language instruction. Overarching themes include the importance of understanding language and linguistics, language acquisition theories, and the implication of culture; while developing a wide ranging repertoire of pedagogical skills, including the infusion of aspects of technology. Students are provided opportunities to observe local language teachers, refine their teaching and presentation techniques, and employ their skills in a supervised internship.

Admissions Criteria

1. Completed Online Application
2. Completion of the professional statement as described on the application
3. Official transcripts from all colleges attended
   
   • Applicant must have completed, or will be completing, a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative index of 3.0 and a “B” average in the major field by the start date of the desired term.
     • An applicant who does not meet these grade point average expectations must address them in his/her professional statement; please see the Professional Statement section of the admissions application for further information.
4. Two letters of recommendation
5. Twelve (12) credit hours of a language other than English. A minimum of six (6) credit hours must be completed for entry to graduate study; the remaining six (6) credits must be completed in the first year of graduate study.
6. Resume

Information for International Applicants

• Required test scores for international applicants:
  
  • 550 on the paper-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • 79 on the Internet-based Test TOEFL (a minimum of 25 on the speaking portion is required)
  • 6.5 on the English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Evaluation of international transcripts:
  
  • Transcripts must be translated to English.
  • A review of your transcript by a reputable evaluation service is required (such as World Education Service, Educational Credential Evaluations, or Josef Silny & Associates) at the expense of the student.
     

Program Director:
Dr. Rui Cheng
(585) 389-2441
rcheng9@naz.edu

Application Deadline:
Rolling Admission