Education: English as a Second Language Education BS
The English as a Second Language Education program is for undergraduate students who are interested in teaching with a PK-12 ESL certification.
Program Type
Major
Program Format
On Campus
A PK-12 English as a Second Language License Will Provide You With:
- Strategies and methods to support the linguistic and academic needs of ALL of your students.
- The tools necessary to modify/adapt your lessons and activities to ensure that ALL students can participate.
- An opportunity to develop/strengthen cultural competence to help you understand and support ALL of your students.
- Tools and resources to become an advocate for English learning students and their families.
Who Is a PK-12 English as a Second Language Teacher?
- An ESL teacher is a trained individual who can assist students who do not use English as their primary language to gain proficiency in the English language.
- An ESL teacher works with students of all ages and in a variety of subjects to develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing in English.
- As an ESL teacher, you will join a network of dedicated teachers improving access to quality education for students for whom English is not their first language.
Why PK-12 ESL Certification?
- English language learners are among the fastest-growing groups in U.S. schools. According to the National Education Association, 1 in 4 children in classrooms across the United States will be an English language learner by 2025.
- Several states, including Wisconsin, report a shortage of teachers qualified to serve language learners (U.S. Department of Education, 2018). This is where you come in!
- As an ESL teacher, you are able to make a difference. ESL teachers play a key role in connecting the world and opening doors of opportunity to children and families.
Career Opportunities
This teacher certification allows program completers to work as a PK-12 English as a Second Language teacher/specialist.
This ESL certification is also a preferred credential for individuals who are considering teaching English abroad.
Multiliteracies, Languages, and Cultures Resource Library (MLC)
The MLC Resource Library provides interdisciplinary teaching materials for teacher candidates, practicing teachers, graduate students and faculty of the School of Education who are MLC related. Those seeking instructional materials for student teachings, field placements or course assignments are able to access this library.
For more information, visit the Multiliteracies, Languages, and Cultures Resource Library (MLC) webpage.
In this ESL certification program, candidates will explore the following topics:
- Linguistics and grammar
- Biliteracy
- Theories of language acquisition
- Politics of language acquisition
- Teaching strategies to support English learners
- Advocacy
In addition, candidates will have the opportunity to work with ESL students in multiple and diverse field placements.
Program Requirements
Post-Baccalaureate Program
Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree can earn their teaching certification by successfully completing our post-baccalaureate teaching certification program. It’s possible that coursework completed as part of your bachelor’s degree could be applied toward our program.
The program is designed to be completed at your own pace; students generally take between one to three courses per semester, with evening classes, virtual and summer courses as options. Learn more about the program options by visiting the Post-Baccalaureate Program webpage.
Graduate Program
Please contact Dr. Tatiana Joseph, program chair and assistant professor, for more information. This is a focus area in the Curriculum and Instruction MS Degree program. See C&I Master’s degree program.
Add On License & Extension License
- Initial Certification
UWM Admission
| Undergraduate Admission | To be considered for admission to UWM, you must meet all UWM admissions requirements and complete the Universities of Wisconsin Application. |
| Post-Baccalaureate Certification | The School of Education post-baccalaureate certification programs lead to teaching certification and licensure. This pathway is for someone who already has an undergraduate degree and aspires to become a classroom teacher. |
| Graduate Admission | To be considered for admission to the School of Education Curriculum and Instruction, MS or Exceptional Education, MS program you must meet all UWM Graduate School admission requirements. Individuals interested in earning teacher certification with their master’s degree will select a certification area of interest. |
The Universities of Wisconsin Application is required even if you have applied or attended UWM previously as an undergraduate, graduate, or University Special student.
In completing the Universities of Wisconsin application, attend to the following:
- It is important that you answer the initial questions in a specific way to ensure that your application is coded correctly.
- When asked, “Are you applying for a degree or a few courses?” you must select “Degree.”
- When asked, “Are you looking to earn a bachelor’s degree or graduate degree?” you must select “Bachelor’s Degree.”
- Select UW-Milwaukee as the campus to which you are applying.
- When you arrive at the “Choose your major/program” page, select “Education & Training” followed by your specific area.
- Select your desired semester/start term and continue with the remainder of the application.
- Important Note: For the essay portion of the application, include the statement “I am applying to pursue a teaching certification” along with your current WI teaching license information or if you’re seeking initial WI teaching licensure, as well as subject areas of interest.
- Required: Official transcripts from all institutions where undergraduate and graduate credit has been earned, except UWM. Transcripts should be sent directly from your institution(s) to UWM.
School of Education: Advancement to Professional Sequence Process (Advance to Major)
All applicants to the English as a Second Language Education program must meet the following requirements to advance to the professional program sequence.
- A 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA in all UWM and transfer courses at the time of admission application.
- A 2.75 minimum cumulative GPA in any English as a Second Language (ESL) content courses.
- A minimum of 48 credits (UWM and transfer credits) at the time of admission application.
- Additional undergraduate requirements for admission — see academic advisor.
- A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on all coursework completed for undergraduate credit.
- A 2.75 minimum cumulative GPA in any English as a Second Language (ESL) content courses.
- For additional information, see your academic advisor
Complete the Intent to Advance to Professional Sequence Form
Advancement to the professional program sequence is based on a review of all application materials by the program admission committee and is contingent upon availability of space.
Faculty
- Associate Professor, Teaching and Learning
- Program Director, English as a Second Language Education
- Program Director, World Language Education
- josepht@uwm.edu
- 414-229-6667
- Enderis Hall 309
Academic Resources
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applications must be submitted a minimum of 6 weeks prior to the semester in which you wish to begin.
Assistant Professor and Program Director
josepht@uwm.edu
To discuss your academic plan and coursework, contact an academic advisor:
Office of Student Services Advising
soeinfo@uwm.edu
414-229-4721