Education in English as a Second Language - University of Valley Forge

Education in English as a Second Language

EDUCATION IN ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

This Master of Education in English as a Second Language certification program will prepare candidates for Pennsylvania public school teaching in an ESL specialist role. Through comprehensive coursework from a Christian perspective that explores linguistics, language acquisition, and methods of teaching English learners, graduates will be prepared to meet the unique needs of these students. Holders of a PA Instructional I or II certificate are eligible to obtain the ESL certificate through completion of this program. Individuals with baccalaureate degrees in fields other than education are welcome to complete the program but will not be eligible for Pennsylvania teacher certification. A non-degree, certification-only track is available for students who complete the 18-credit ESL core.

The Master of Education with ESL certification courses will be offered in an online format in seven-week semesters in the fall, spring and summer. Courses in the ESL certification core require field experiences in a PreK-12 ESL classroom. Field experiences cannot be completed online; they must be completed in person at a local school.

The program is 30 credit hours, to be completed entirely online through seven-week semesters in two years. The program culminates in an action research project or thesis. There will be a $750 fee for this capstone project.

ESL classroom

Through a Master of Education in English as a Second Language, you will:

  • Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, for diverse audiences within educational settings.
  • Access, evaluate, and utilize current educational research and literature based on knowledge of best practices and academic standards.
  • Establish and maintain professional demeanor and relationships with students, colleagues, parents, and supervisors in educational settings.

  • Articulate a philosophy of education that is consistent with a Christian worldview and integrate Christian principles into professional practice.
  • Design, implement, and reflect upon instruction that is aligned with best practices and academic standards and that meets the educational needs of diverse learners.

To be Eligible for acceptance into the program, you must:

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
  • Complete and submit the Graduate Student Online Application
  • Submit official undergraduate and graduate transcripts. Send official transcripts of credits earned at all institutions of higher education. This program will accept up to six transfer credits of graduate application, depending on applicability.

  • Submit two letters of recommendation describing how your professional experience and academic performance qualifies you for entrance into the Master of Education in ESL program.
  • Submit current resume or CV.
  • Submit a personal Statement of Purpose of approximately 500 words describing your professional goals and reasons for applying to this particular program.