English as a Second Language Program Specialist
Arcadia’s ESL Program Specialist PK-12 Certification prepares you with knowledge and skills to effectively develop supportive instruction for English Learners from kindergarten through the 12th grade. This PA Department of Education approved program prepares you with skills for Teaching English as a Foreign Language programs.
As an ESL Program Specialist, you will:
- Share skills and strategies to meet English language learners’ needs within and outside the classroom.
- Understand the language’s impact on the students learning and environments.
- Use classroom-based assessment to measure the students’ knowledge.
Instructional 1 teaching certification is required to begin this certification program. The PA Department of Education has approved Arcadia University’s training program for the ESL Program Specialist teaching credential. The ESL courses also can be taken as part of an MEd degree program.
Requirements (15 Credits)
Each of the following five ESL program courses require 12 hours of fieldwork, either in STS school settings or community ESL classes. Explore each of the course topics below.
Language, Diversity, and Schooling
Explore the ways that U.S. schools have addressed linguistic diversity, highlighting current policies and program models as well as practices at various points in our history.
Teaching Multilingual and Multicultural Literacies
This course focuses on multiple forms of assessment utilized with multilingual students and the role of the context and the purpose of communication in linguistic performance.
ESL Multilingual and Multicultural Assessments
Focus on the academic language needed for multilingual students to be successful in U.S. schools. You will investigate reading and writing standards and curricula for students in a particular context and the ways that materials might be differentiated for English Learners and English Learners with disabilities.
Understanding Language Learning
Address the processes of language learning from a variety of perspectives and gain an understanding of the structure and sound systems of English in relation to other languages and in relation to a variety of teaching strategies.
Theory and Practice of TESOL
The course offers a chance for you to synthesize your learning about English Learners, to fine tune a specialized philosophy of education, and to plan and implement lessons that are differentiated, integrated across language skills and content areas, and that include meaningful assessment.
School of Education Graduate Program Information
Admission Requirements
For working professionals seeking graduate degrees or certifications, we offer full-time, part-time, online and options to build your own degree.
Tuition and Fees
Learn more about the cost differences for part- and full-time students and any specialized School of Education program costs.
