English as a Second Language, M.S.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Applications to the English as a Second Language program are not currently being accepted.

The program may be offered in future academic years in a revised format. The program of study outlined below is to be used as a reference for those students who are enrolled in the existing program.

The English as a Second Language program is available to individuals who already hold a valid instructional certificate. (International students may be permitted to complete this program without certification if they have satisfied the teaching standards in their respective countries.) Entry into the Master of Science in English as a Second Language degree requires successful completion of six credit hours of a foreign language or the equivalent. The degree requires a total of 36 credits in course work.

Below is the course of study for the program and can be used as a reference and guide for those students who are already enrolled in the program. All students who are pursuing a Master’s degree must complete the research and foundation course requirements and pass a comprehensive examination.

Research Course Requirement (3 credits)

EFND 506 - Educational Research and Statistics

Foundation Course Requirements (6 credits)

ESL Educational Components (21 credits)

Electives (6 credits)

Total Program Credits: 36

PDE does not currently require Praxis II test scores for ESL Program Specialist Certification. However, the ESL certification is a Program Specialist certification in Pennsylvania. In order to qualify for the certificate, the teacher must hold a Pennsylvania Instructional I or Instructional II certificate and present evidence of having successfully completed a Department-approved ESL Training Program. Only Pennsylvania school districts can apply for the Program Specialist certification. PDE expects that ESL Special certification will be accepted by those states that have signed the Interstate Agreement with Pennsylvania; however, that is each state’s decision. Students are advised to check with their home state to ensure that they are eligible for certification in that state.