ESL Endorsement (Undergraduate)

Enhance your teaching license—prepare to support English learners with confidence and care

 

The ESL Endorsement is designed for undergraduate students who are pursuing initial teacher licensure in another area—such as Elementary Education or Early Childhood Education—and wish to add an endorsement in English as a Second Language (ESL). 

Program Objectives: 

Candidates in this program will be expected to achieve the following objectives:

  • Analyze and apply theories and research related to language structure and language acquisition.
  • Design supportive language learning environments using the intersections of language and culture, related theories, and principles.
  • Plan and implement research-based language instruction that integrates language skills, technology, and relevant teaching strategies.
  • Apply a variety of language proficiency instruments and techniques.
  • Understand the history and current trends in language pedagogy and research and collaborate to meet the needs of language learners.

 

Required Courses: 18 credit hours

This endorsement prepares future educators to effectively teach and support English language learners in K–12 settings. To earn the ESL Endorsement, candidates must complete the following coursework:

  • EDCI 3300 Foundations of Second Language Acquisition (3 credits)
  • EDCI 4300 Methods and Assessment for ESL and Second Language Learners (3 credits)
  • EDCI 3400 Culturally Relevant Seminar (2 credits)
  • EDCI 3800 Linguistics for Educators (3 credits)
  • EDCI 4400 TESOL Practicum (3 credits)
  • 6 credit hours in world language courses (e.g., Spanish or French)

In addition to completing these courses, candidates must pass the Praxis Exam 5362: English to Speakers of Other Languages. This pathway enhances teacher preparation by providing essential knowledge and skills to serve multilingual learners effectively.

 

For More Information

Dr. Yoo

Hyeon Jean Yoo, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor | Teaching English Language Learners (TELL) Program Coordinator
Email: hyoo@tnstate.edu 

Resources

B.S. in Elementary Education & ESL Endorsement Option (Sample POS)