Northeastern State University

The Certificate in English as a Second Language (ESL) is an institutional certificate granted by Northeastern State University. This certificate is evidence that the holder has successfully completed 15 credit hours in the area of English as a second language in a program approved by the state of Oklahoma.

This certificate is of special interest to students majoring in PK-12 Education, English, or Spanish as well as to teachers who are currently certified to teach in these areas. The required course work for the ESL certificate complements the degree requirements in these particular areas and prepares students to take the state competency exam in ESL.

Students who are pursuing a teaching certificate should visit the Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators website for further information regarding dates for the state competency test in ESL.

Having the Oklahoma competency in ESL in addition to your major subject area is a step toward preparing oneself to meet the needs of non-English-speaking students in schools in Oklahoma as well as those with limited English proficiency. As the 21st century brings increasing access to computers and telecommunication systems, a knowledge of English will ensure greater use of these important information sources. If you are a student, teacher, or other professional responding to the needs of various people to understand and use English, the Certificate in ESL at NSU is an opportunity to enhance your skills and enrich your career while meeting the language needs of others.

ESL Requirements

The program is a minimum of 15 hours. Graduate credit is given for all 4000/5000 courses.

I. Core Courses (12 hours)

II. One elective from the following classes (3 hours)

*Upper level foreign language classes also count toward the certificate.

III. Graduate Courses

*Studies I
*General Requirements

Upon completion of the ESL requirements, students should request the Certificate in ESL from Dr. Trudi Patterson, Associate Professor.

For students applying for an Oklahoma teaching certificate, please contact the NSU Teacher Certification Office in room 202 of the Education building in Tahlequah or Lois Buttress, Teacher Certification Coordinator.