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A Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is a widely accepted and recognized program that reflects a student’s initial academic and practical preparation in the teaching of English as a second language (ESL) or English as a foreign language (EFL). Note: Though it has a similar name, it should not be confused with the state Teacher Certification which is necessary to teach in the public school system.

Students who may want to pursue the TESOL Certificate would typically be interested in living, teaching and traveling abroad after graduation. In some locations at language schools abroad, a TESOL Certificate or its equivalent may be a requirement for entry-level employment as a language instructor. Other students who may have interest in the certificate may want to pursue graduate studies in linguistics, TESOL or foreign languages. This certificate is only available to UT's full-time students. For more specific information, contact Dr. Mark Putnam at mputnam@ut.edu or (813) 257-3558.

Topics of Study

  • approaches to TESOL and teaching second and foreign languages
  • basic linguistics
  • applied linguistics
  • advanced grammar cross-cultural studies

Career and Graduate School Opportunities

  • teacher of English in another country
  • graduate degree in TESOL  
  • professor of TESOL 

See the course catalog for more information about the TESOL certificate.