JOINTLY REGISTERED WITH NIAGARA UNIVERSITY’S TEACHING ENGLISH TO SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES (TESOL), B.A.
Contact Information
Program Requirements
Typical Program
Degree/Certificate: Associate in Arts
HEGIS Code: 5649
SUNY Code: 2149
Major Code: TSOL
The Career
The TESOL Jointly Registered program is structured to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experiences for transferring to Niagara University’s baccalaureate program. This program lays the groundwork for certification in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages for grades K-12. Employment opportunities in this certification field are abundant, with a growing demand for TESOL teachers expected in the coming years. The need arises from projected teacher vacancies and the increasing number of students requiring TESOL services.
The SUNY Niagara Approach
Upon completing SUNY Niagara’s TESOL program, students will possess the knowledge, skills, and background needed to transfer to Niagara University for a Bachelor of Arts degree. This degree qualifies them for certification to teach TESOL in grades K-12 in New York State. SUNY Niagara’s small class sizes foster open discussions, close relationships among students, and allow faculty to provide individual attention. As part of their education courses, students will engage in approximately 60 hours of field placement experiences in TESOL classrooms. The program also emphasizes relevant coursework in liberal arts and sciences, aligning with the requirements of Niagara University. Students in this program receive personalized advisement from faculty with a special interest and expertise in education.
Admission
Students admitted in fall, spring and summer.
The Liberal Arts and Sciences: TESOL program is offered as a full-time day program or part-time evening program. Because of the sequencing of courses, it may take longer than eight semesters to complete the part-time evening program or four semesters to complete the full-time day program if a student begins in a spring or summer semester.
Program Goals and Objectives
- To prepare SUNY Niagara students for seamless transfer into the Bachelor of Arts degree program in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages at Niagara University
- To provide a mechanism to share resources and program goals across faculty of the two institutions
- To provide the opportunity for first generation college students, many of who are from rural areas, to consider teaching as a career
- To encourage teachers to consider careers in rural areas of New York State
- Broaden his/her general education background and core knowledge through course work in humanities, social sciences, mathematics, fine arts, computer technology and sciences
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of the sociological, philosophical, physiological, historical, and psychological aspects of American education through written assessments and class discussions.
- Develop a personal philosophy about education and the role education plays in American society.
- Successfully complete and document required field experiences, meeting specified clock hours and applying theoretical knowledge in educational settings.
- Initiate skill development and knowledge accumulation for TESOL certification, actively participating in coursework and practical experiences.
- Discuss characteristics which define responsible and successful education demonstrating critical thinking and analytical skills in evaluating educational practices and policies.
