Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Boston College’s TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate program is designed to prepare future English language educators with the essential skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to teach English effectively to non-native speakers. The program combines innovative teaching methodologies, technology integration, and a global perspective, and is thus an ideal platform for educators ready to inspire language learners in dynamic, culturally diverse settings. 

At a Glance

How many courses?


This program consists of 4 courses for a total of 12 credits.

What is the format?


The certificate program is offered entirely online.

How much does it cost?


To estimate your total program cost, multiply the number of credits required in your program by the tuition cost per credit.

Please note: The TESOL Certificate does not provide or replace a K-12 teaching license. 

Program Highlights

Integrated Technology for Language Learning

This program emphasizes digital tools and virtual classrooms. From AI-powered language apps to VR simulations, students incorporate tech that makes language learning accessible.

Project-Based and Experiential Learning

Beyond traditional methods, the TESOL program uses project-based learning to immerse students in real-world scenarios. Participants engage with local organizations, design community programs, and use English teaching as a tool for social integration.

Adaptive and Inclusive Curriculum Design

With a focus on adaptability, students learn to create inclusive, flexible lesson plans tailored to learners from diverse backgrounds, with varied abilities and learning styles.

Cultural Intelligence and Empathy Building

The program offers training in cultural intelligence, equipping educators to embrace linguistic diversity. Workshops on empathy-building and bias reduction help create inclusive classrooms.

Cross-cultural Pedagogy

The certificate provides hands-on experience in diverse settings to learn cross-cultural pedagogy, preparing students for global contexts and helping them thrive in multicultural classrooms.

Leadership and Advocacy in TESOL

Focusing on leadership development, the program encourages educators to become advocates and change agents in their communities. Participants learn about educational policy and resource development.

Curriculum

In addition to a rigorous graduate-level curriculum that imparts a firm foundation in teaching English to speakers of other languages, our non-licensure TESOL certificate program has unique features that offer a balance of theory and practice in teaching English to speakers of other languages. Students in the program will learn to apply TESOL principles with instructional technology. Boston College’s Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is not a state-approved program and will not lead to endorsement or licensure.

Requirements


  • Courses: 4
  • Credits: 12
  • Capstone Project

Meets the needs for TESOL across the globe

Each course has a unique capstone project that invites students to apply theory in TESOL learning environments.

Faculty

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The certificate program is open to students who are registered in BC’s graduate and professional schools.

Deadlines

Rolling Admissions

Application & Deadlines

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Deadline: Rolling admissions

Note: Certificate Program applications are considered on a rolling basis; however, preference for enrollment in selected certificate courses is given to students already accepted into the program, so applying as early as possible is recommended.  As well, if you are enrolled in a one-year Master's program, please submit your application early in the Fall semester.

Resume

In addition to your academic history and relevant work experience, please include:

  • Any teaching or counseling experience (including any licenses already held);
  • Any social justice related experience; 
  • Any language skills other than English (especially Spanish language skills) and;
  • Any research experience or publications

Personal Statement

To be uploaded to your online Application Form.

In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.

Transcripts

All official undergraduate and graduate transcripts must be sent to our office before the application deadline. Please note the following:

  • Only official sealed (unopened) transcripts are acceptable. An official postsecondary transcript must be printed on official institutional paper and include at least one of the following: an institutional watermark, the registrar’s signature, or the registrar's seal.

  • Copies and unofficial transcripts sent directly from applicants are not acceptable, the transcript must come directly from the institution.

  • If you are a current student and have not completed your undergraduate and/or graduate degree, the most updated version of your transcript is acceptable.

Official electronic transcripts are accepted when sent directly to gsoe@dos5.net from the institution. When requesting electronic transcripts, you must manually type in gsoe@dos5.net to ensure it is received by our office. 

Mailed transcript(s) should be sent to the following address:

Lynch Office of Graduate Admissions, Boston College
Campion Hall 135
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

Quick Links

Contact Us

  gsoe@dos5.net
  617-552-4214