English as a Second Language (ESL)

The English as a second language program is geared toward professionals who desire to become credentialed to teach in either a Pre K-12 setting or in a variety of other instructional environments. The coursework is designed to serve a practical purpose. Assignments completed, for example, can be used in the classroom. A balanced blend of theory and application is one of the reasons our curriculum is so attractive to adult learners. Instructors are quick to answer inquiries and engage with students to help them succeed. The curriculum includes teaching on topics such as trends, models and methods in instruction, the impact of culture on language acquisition and technology as it relates to language learning.

A field experience also is included as part of the degree requirement. Students will complete at least 30 hours in ESL classrooms. The field experience will include both Pre K-5 and 6-12 grade settings. Candidates will observe, assist, tutor, teach and apply what they have learned from relevant courses. Appropriately supervised teaching experience of at least one semester in a Pre K-12 ESL classroom may be substituted for the field experience.

Our faculty are experts in the field. Those who teach linguistics, for example, are speech pathologists. Others who teach content are currently working in the ESL field. Faculty members who teach coursework on the impact of culture have experiences working with diverse communities. Three faculty members currently serve with the Tennessee TESOL organization and as a result keep Trevecca on the cutting edge of what is happening in ESL instructional circles.

The entire ESL experience is highly interactive and relevant. “When I interview students at the end of the program I frequently ask what worked well for them throughout their classes,” remarks Program Director Dr. Penney Carden. “Two things are always mentioned--instructors who are engaged and prompt in answering questions, and practical assignments that can be used in the students’ own classrooms.”

For teachers who are not yet interested in obtaining the master’s degree, Trevecca offers an endorsement in ESL. To add an endorsement in English as a second language to an existing teaching license, thirteen hours of coursework and a passing score on the ESL Praxis exam are required. Our curriculum equips teachers to develop expertise in language acquisition, appropriate instructional models, curriculum design, culture, assessment, technology and linguistics.

All ESL endorsement courses are offered in an online format. The endorsement can be completed in one summer by taking two classes at a time or in two semesters (fall and spring).

We make it easy to earn your degree while focusing on one class at a time, anytime—24/7. Classes are taught online through our learning management system, Blackboard. Books and materials are delivered to your front door. And when we say the degree is entirely online, we mean it. You never have to step foot on campus--not even once! Classes are asynchronous, meaning there’s no specific time you must be online. Plus, you’ll only take one course at a time.

You’ll also be part of an online cohort, where students begin and complete their degree alongside a group of other online peers working toward the same goals. Constant email exchanges and online discussion posts among your group ensure you won’t feel like you’re on an island. Our highly successful cohort model helps ensure you’ll get the support you need.

You can expect the same level of quality and rigor with our online degree programs that Trevecca has provided students in the classroom since 1901. The digital advancements we’ve made in recent years--including the ease of navigating our online platforms and the ability of our students to seamlessly engage electronically with our incredible faculty--have helped make us the fastest growing university in Middle Tennessee.

Requirements

• Have earned a bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by a CHEA-recognized regional accrediting agency or the Association for Biblical Higher Education. Students who do not meet these degree requirements may be conditionally accepted in accordance with the Conditional Admission Policy.

Getting Started

1. Complete the online application (it's free!).
   Need help applying? Read the step-by-step instructions here!
2. Fill out FAFSA to be considered for financial aid
3. Request a copy of your official transcript from your undergraduate institution.
4. Provide photocopy of government-issued identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID, military ID, passport). This requirement ensures that Trevecca complies with the U.S. Department of Education expectations for student verification. (This is only required for students enrolled in an online program.)
5. Submit a copy of your teaching license (if applicable).
6. Submit proof of fingerprinting and complete a successful background check.
7. Complete a successful interview with the program coordinator.
8. Submit a writing sample.

Endorsement Only

• Complete all of the above, with the exception of a FAFSA application and a writing sample.

Questions?

Fill out the following form to be connected with your personal enrollment counselor. We’re here to help!