Post-Baccalaureate Program

The English as a Second Language Post-Baccalaureate program has many different program options leading to teaching certification and licensure.

Option 1: Major

The PK-12 English as a Second Language Certification Program (Major) is for post-baccalaureate students who are interested in becoming a PK-12 ESL Teacher.

Option 2: Minor

The PK-12 English as a Second Language Certification Program (Minor) is for post-baccalaureate individuals who have a current Wisconsin teacher certification or are in the process of completing a teacher certification program and want to add an additional certification in PK-12 ESL Education.

Option 3: ESL License Expansion

The PK-12 English as a Second Language Post-Baccalaureate Program Expansion pipeline is for individuals who have a current Wisconsin ESL Teacher license in specific grade bands (birth to 3rd, 1st to 8th, 4-12th, 9-12th) and would like to expand their ESL license to include additional grade bands.

Career Opportunities

This teacher certification allows program completers to work as a PK-12 English as a Second Language teacher/specialist.

This certification is also a preferred credential for individuals who are considering teaching English abroad.

In this 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

Option 1: Major

The program consists of 54 credits including supervised field experiences. 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.

Option 2: Minor

The program consists of 24 credits including supervised field experiences. 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.

Option 3: Expansion

Most individuals will have to complete field placement (3 credits) in their expanding grade band along with a seminar (1 credit).

Faculty

Tatiana Joseph, Assistant Professor in Teaching and Learning.
Tatiana Joseph, PhD
  • Assistant Professor, Teaching and Learning
  • Program Director, English as a Second Language Education
  • Program Director, World Language Education

Advising

  • (Last names A – L) – Tyree Bolden
  • (Last names M – Z) – Nikki Claas
Tyree Bolden, Academic Advisor in Office of Student Services.
Tyree Bolden, MS
  • Academic Advisor, Office of Student Services
Nicole Claas, Senior Academic Advisor in Office of Student Services.
Nicole Claas, MS
  • Senior Academic Advisor, Office of Student Services
Contact

Dr. Tatiana Joseph
Assistant Professor and Program Director
josepht@uwm.edu

For information or questions about admissions, contact:

Maggie Kaczmarek
Undergraduate Admissions Manager
kaczmarm@uwm.edu

To discuss your academic plan and coursework, contact an academic advisor:

Office of Student Services Advising
soeinfo@uwm.edu
414-229-4721

Academic Advising
(Last names A – L) – Tyree Bolden
(Last names M – Z) – Nikki Claas