TESL Certificate

The streamlined PSU TESL certificate program is an effective way to get your teaching credentials with just 28-credits (7 classes). The program focuses on the essentials of teaching ESL/EFL for beginning and experienced teachers alike. The program is designed to give you strong fundamentals in the workings of the English language together with practical skills and experience for teaching in a variety of settings. This certificate does not license you to teach in public schools. Coursework falls into two main areas:

Language Structure and Use coursework provides a deep understanding of language as a foundation for teaching. Our focus on cultural connections provides the skills and sensitivities to teach and work effectively with people from other cultures.

Language Teaching and Learning focuses on pedagogy and teaching methodology. Coursework provides grounding in second language learning theory and practice. The supervised practicum brings it all together with real-world teaching opportunities in Portland-area ESOL programs. 

Costs and finance options

Detailed cost information can be found here.
Financing may be available through grants, scholarships, loans (federal and private) and institutional financing plans.
Contact the Office of Student Financial Aid to learn more.

When it comes to choosing between doing an online program versus choosing a place like Portland State, it's a totally different experience. I don't think you're going to get the same sort of quality of education if you try to complete the TESL certificate online versus coming to our program. There's so much in-depth information that you get, and there's so much practical experience that you get - you're not going to get that just learning about it online.

-- Sasha Reinwald-Albrecht, TESOL Methods Courses Teaching Assistant 2018-19