Earning a Bachelor's in ESL Online

Should I Pursue a Bachelor's in ESL Online?

Earning an online English as a second language (ESL) bachelor's degree provides students with knowledge of second-language acquisition and child development. Graduates often pursue careers teaching bilingual students. Programs may explore ESL teaching strategies and curriculum models for various academic subjects, and some programs focus on specific grade levels.

After obtaining the necessary certifications, graduates can work in preschool and elementary schools. Graduates may also help adults who are non-native speakers gain English literacy and prepare for high school equivalency tests. Additionally, ESL bachelor's degree holders can pursue careers outside classroom settings. For example, graduates can become instructional coordinators and help shape K-12 curricula for school districts. Some advanced positions also require a master's degree, so students may also consider obtaining a master's in ESL online.

Some ESL teachers educate students in a virtual format. For example, VIPKid hires English teachers to work with Chinese students through online classrooms. Pursuing an ESL degree online can prepare learners to communicate effectively through distance learning platforms.

Ideal students for ESL education programs boast patience and positive attitudes, and they also have strong communication skills. These candidates should love learning and want to help others grow intellectually.

Employment Outlook for Bachelor's in ESL Graduates

Graduates of online ESL bachelor's degree programs can work in a variety of settings, such as elementary classrooms and summer camps that assist non-native speakers. The following sections provide an overview of some of these professions, including career descriptions, growth projections, and salaries.

Bachelor's in ESL Careers

Individuals who earn a bachelor's in ESL online can work in K-12 settings. Specifically, graduates can teach in bilingual classrooms or shape curricula that reflects the needs of ESL learners. However, some of these careers may require advanced credentials, such as a master's degree or teaching certification. Candidates can also work at summer camps and programs that target non-native speaking children and help adults gain English literacy. Each of these positions requires patience, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in ESL Program?

The structures of online ESL bachelor's degree programs vary. Departments require different application materials, and programs may offer different concentration options. However, most ESL programs share some common elements. Students completing ESL bachelor's programs online often take the classes listed below.

Curriculum for an Online Bachelor's Degree in ESL

Certifications and Licenses a Bachelor's in ESL Prepares For

• Teaching Certification: Public K-12 educators typically need to hold state teaching certification. Certification requirements vary between states but often include earning an education degree, submitting to a background check, and passing a certification test. These tests are often timed and require a registration fee. States typically require teachers to renew their certification every 2-5 years.
• ESL Certification: This certification benefits ESL teachers in K-12 settings. Certification processes vary by state, but candidates must generally have completed college-level ESL coursework in areas including linguistics and teaching methodologies. Candidates may also need teaching experience and a passing score on a state ESL certification exam.

Professional Organizations & Resources

Professional organizations assist students and professionals by hosting events, such as conferences and seminars. These events can help candidates build professional relationships and explore new concepts in ESL learning. Organizations may also provide professional development opportunities, including workshops and training, which may fulfill continuing education requirements for certifications.

Additionally, many professional organizations maintain online job boards and provide assistance with interviews and resumes. The organizations listed below are popular options for ESL education professionals. Candidates can also look up organizations that focus on their specific career or location.

• TESOL International Association: This organization delivers seminars, virtual classes, conferences, and symposiums on teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). The TESOL Resource Center provides information related to lesson plans and teaching strategies, and the association publishes a journal: TESOL Quarterly.

• National Association for Bilingual Education: NABE hosts an annual conference and the Dual Language Symposium. The association also publishes the Bilingual Research Journal and the magazine Perspectives. Candidates can browse an online job board and access career resources such as resume tips.

• International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language: IATEFL hosts the International Annual Conference and Exhibition, which includes workshops and lectures. Members can apply for scholarships to attend this event. The association also provides monthly webinars and delivers information about open positions.

• International Literacy Association: ILA delivers a conference and provides two-day intensives upon request. The group also offers resources including reading lists, a bimonthly magazine, and journals such as Reading Resource Quarterly. ILA's blog offers information on topics such as the impact of book clubs.

• National Council of Teachers of English: This council's website connects individuals to the Conference on College Composition and Communication's yearly convention and the Conference on English Leadership's annual event. Members can network with professionals in the field through NCTE's Whole Language Umbrella organization. They can also access online resources including journals, lesson plans, and a blog.

• Purdue OWL: This writing lab offers resources on essay formats, citation, and grammar. Additionally, the website includes topics related to ESL education, including information on global English variations and teaching strategies for bilingual classrooms.

• Adult Learning Resource Center: This resource provides information on educating adults, including ESL and special needs learners. The group also hosts the annual Northern Region Adult Education Conference and provides a virtual orientation for beginning teachers.

• Illinois Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages - Bilingual Education: Members can attend the group's yearly convention, workshops, and Graduate Student Conference at discounted prices. The organization also delivers a newsletter and webinars on topics such as assessment in bilingual classrooms.

• EnglishUSA: This group connects members to its Stakeholders Conference, an annual Professional Development Conference, and webinars on concepts such as reading and ESL education. Site visitors can browse advocacy resources and job opportunities.

• Boston Public Library: The Boston Public Library provides tutoring and classes for ESL learners and invites volunteers to participate. This opportunity can provide individuals with practical experience in ESL education. The library also connects ESL teachers with resources.