Mount Saint Vincent University’s Faculty of Education has expanded its offerings with the addition of graduate certificate and diploma programs in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). Both the certificate and diploma are available in two streams – one for teaching children and youth and the other for teaching adults.
An increase in new immigrants in Atlantic Canada and across the country has led to increased demand for teaching English as a second language. The programs focused on teaching youth will support teachers in working with students for whom English is not their first language within K-12 schools in Canada and internationally. The program is designed to assist educators in meeting the evolving needs of their students in increasingly global learning contexts. The certificate and diploma focused on adults will enable teachers of adult English language learners in Canada and internationally.
The certificates include four courses (or 2.0 credits, with each course equivalent to a half credit) and can be completed in 2 semesters – typically two courses in two adjacent semesters. The diploma programs consist of 6 courses, typically taken over 3 semesters. Students can also enroll in these programs for a January start.
Certificate for children and youth (2 credits)
· GCRD 6360 – Language Acquisition
· GRCD 6364 – Language Testing and Assessment
· GCRD 6367 – Instruction for English Language Learners
· GCRD 6368 – Language and Culture
Diploma for children and youth (3 credits) (Certificate courses, plus 2 additional ones)
Certificate courses as above, plus:
· GRCD 6361 – Linguistics
· GCRD 6362 – Pedagogical Grammar
Certificate for adult (2 credits)
· GCRD 6360 – Language Acquisition
· GRCD 6362 – Pedagogical Grammar
· GCRD 6365 – Language Curriculum and Instruction
· GCRD 6366 – TESOL Practicum
Diploma for adult (3 credits) (Certificate courses, plus 2 additional ones)
Certificate courses as above, plus:
· GRCD 6361 – Linguistics
· GCRD 6364 – Language Testing and Assessment
The admission requirements are an undergraduate degree, two letters of reference, and a statement of intent outlining the reasons for applying for the program.
MSVU’s Faculty of Education is home to professors with extensive experience in teaching English to speakers of other languages.
MSVU has offered a Master of Education Curriculum Studies with a concentration in TESOL since 1995. In 2018, the University introduced a new Master of Arts in Education program which includes a thesis option. The new MA and MEd also include new courses (in technology and multiculturalism, for example) based on evolving needs of teachers and students in the TESOL field.
As Nova Scotia’s largest Faculty of Education, MSVU is home to the largest Education student population and widest variety of programs. In addition to the Bachelor of Education degree and programs in TESOL, the Mount’s Faculty of Education offers graduate programs in Curriculum Studies, Educational Foundations, Educational Psychology, Elementary and Middle School Education, Literacy Education, Lifelong Learning and School Psychology.
For more information, contact Christine.Doe@msvu.ca. To apply, visit the MSVU website.
About Mount Saint Vincent University
Recognized as a leader in online and experiential learning, and based on a strong tradition of social responsibility, Mount Saint Vincent University takes a personalized approach to education to nurture socially responsible global citizens. Founded in 1873, the Mount has been nationally recognized for having one of the lowest student-to-professor ratios, for providing students early access to valuable research opportunities, for its legacy in the advancement of women, and for facilitating critical advancements in food security, healthy aging, literacy, and childhood development.