TESOL FAQ’s
1. Do I need a college degree to enroll in the TESOL Certificate Program at WCC?
Most applicants have undergraduate and graduate degrees; however, our decisions are made on a case by case basis.
2. Who is the program for?
For those who will pursue employment in the field of TESL/TEFL in adult or college programs, in the not-for-profit or proprietary sectors in the USA or abroad. The program is also suitable for those with some teaching experience but no formal training in TESOL, or for teachers who wish to advance their knowledge of ESL methodologies and technology. Due to significant differences in TESOL for adults and children, numerous experienced teachers with K-12 certification have taken the program.
3. How long is the program?
The program is 12 weeks long. We run three semesters a year: spring (Jan.-Apr), summer (May-Aug) and fall (Sept-Dec).
4. When and where will the observations and teaching practicum take place?
The observations and student-teaching practicum will take place in person for students registering in the morning in-person program, and remotely for students registering in the evening online program. Upon registering, students will have different schedule options to choose from. Most ESL classes are 3 hours long and are available on weekday mornings, evening, and weekends.
5. Where can I teach with a TESOL Certificate?
In most adult ESL/ESOL program in two or four-year colleges, community-based organizations, libraries, in the not-for-profit or proprietary sectors in the US and abroad. Many of our graduates have been hired by WCC’s own English Language Institute which annually serves over 4,000 English language learners.
6. Can I teach in public schools in the US?
No, this program is not oriented towards teaching children nor towards the public-school setting and will not satisfy K-12 certification requirements.
7. Why is this program better than others?
The program’s unique model combines theory and practice and provides students with hands on, authentic classroom practice by having them teach in the ELI’s ESL program, which was established in 1988 and is the largest in the entire SUNY system. The program’s mentored teaching, its affordability and length, and the student support throughout the semester and beyond are just but a few of the strengths of our program!
