English as a Second Language (ESL)

The ESL endorsement prepares you to be a general classroom teacher who can support language learners well, an ESL specialist (Grades K-12), or a sheltered content teacher (secondary education).

English as a Second Language Endorsement

Requires 18 credit hours of coursework in five areas
Must complete 100 practicum hours with English Learners

Some states require the equivalent of the IL ESL endorsement for all initial teacher licensure. If you are considering transferring your teaching license to another state after graduation, please consult with Dr. Vroom Fick to see if this may apply to you.

Required Courses

LING 224 Theoretical Foundations of Language Acquisition
LING 227 Cross-Cultural Teaching/Learning
LING 325 Principles of Assessment for TESOL
LING 326 EL Content Methods
LING 328 EL Methods for Specialists
LING 328L ESL Practicum
LING 329 Curriculum and Materials Development
LING 331 Introduction to Linguistics

See the recommended sequence for scheduling here